Every home has a refrigerator, but the majority of homes have refrigerators that are not running at maximum efficiency. The condenser coils are a vital part of how a refrigerator dissipates heat. A fan blows air across the coils to remove the heat, but when the coils become clogged with dirt, dust, or pet hair this system doesn't work efficiently.
"There is no need for routine condenser cleaning in normal home operating environments. If the environment is particularly greasy or dusty, or there is significant pet traffic in the home, the condenser should be cleaned every 2 to 3 months to ensure maximum efficiency."-Whirlpool Use and Care Guide.
Here in the Southwest there is more airborne dust and dirt than most places. Condenser coils can become clogged quickly especially if there are pets in the home. Our experience has shown that condenser coils should be cleaned at least once a year.
Clogged Condenser Coils can lead to a shorter life for your refrigerator. The excess running time and heat caused by clogged coils can cause the compressor or condenser fan to fail prematurely. Dust collected on the fan blade can unbalance it, and also cause the fan motor to fail.
Ortega's Appliance can perform a maintenance check up, which includes a thorough cleaning of the condenser, an inspection of all fan motors, door seals, and complete operations check. Call our office at 884-9177 to set up a maintenance check up today, visit www.ortegasappliance.com to schedule online, or do it yourselfers can follow these basic instructions from the Whirlpool Use and Care Guide.
Steps to Clean Refrigerator Condenser Coils
1. Unplug refrigerator or disconnect power.
2. Remove the base grille. Do this by opening both doors, placing your hands along the ends of the grille and pushing in on the top of the grille while pulling up on the bottom.
3. Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush to clean the grille, the open areas behind the grille and front surface area to be cleaned
To reach the dust between to coils, where your vacuum cannot reach, use a Coil Brush.
4. Replace the base grille. Do so by lining up the grille support tabs with the metal clips and pushing the grille firmly to snap into place.
5. Plug in refrigerator or reconnect power.
