Your refrigerator is working hard to keep your food fresh. But something else may be forcing it to work harder than it should – dirty refrigerator coils!
To prevent a potential breakdown, you need to clean your refrigerator coils to allow them to chill all summer. One popular method of cleaning refrigerator coils is by using compressed air.
But is compressed air effective in cleaning refrigerator coils?
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Can You Use Compressed Air to Clean Refrigerator Coils?
Yes, you can use compressed air to remove dust and dirt from refrigerator condenser coils. Many experts recommend blowing out dust from refrigerator coils using cans of pressurized air like the ones used to clean computer keyboards.
How to Use Compressed Air to Clean Refrigerator Coils
Here is a step-by-step guide to cleaning refrigerator coils using compressed air –
- Locate the Refrigerator Coils – The first step to cleaning the refrigerator coils is to find them. The latest refrigerator models have their coils at the bottom of the fridge, which is covered by a panel. Older models have them exposed at the back towards the bottom.
- Unplug the Refrigerator – Before doing any type of maintenance work, it is important to unplug the refrigerator from the power. You should never work on live appliances as there are chances of you being electrocuted.
- Move The Fridge to Get Access – If the coil is located at the back of your fridge, you need to move it to get access to it. You can use the wheels to pull it forward; otherwise, use some strength to move it until the back of the refrigerator is fully accessible.
- Vacuum the Coils – If the coils are exposed, you can start vacuuming them right away. If there is a panel, you need to remove the panels before you start cleaning them carefully. If you have not cleaned the coils for a long time, you need to use a vacuum with a flat cleaner attachment to clean the coils from all sides.
- Use Spray – The shape of the coil will prevent you from getting everything. Get the Nozzle in deep and use your compressed air to blow out dirt and dust from those hard-to-reach areas while continuing to use the vacuum to suck it up.
- Scrub and Wipe – If there is any leftover grime you can scrub the copper tubing with a soft bristle brush or toothbrush then wipe with a cloth.
- Move the refrigerator back into place – Before moving the refrigerator back to its place, clean the area around and underneath it. Remember, this area is not always accessible for cleaning, so take full advantage of it. Once you have placed the refrigerator in place, plug it back again, and you are all done!
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How to Prevent Dust From Flying Up When Cleaning Refrigerator Coils
When you use compressed air to clean the refrigerator coils, dust and debris will fly everywhere. To prevent it from spreading to other parts of your refrigerator, use the hose attachment of your vacuum cleaner, position it under the coils and use its suction to contain all the loose dust and dirt.
Why Do the Refrigerator Coils Get So Dirty?
The main reason refrigerator coils get so dirty is that they are hard to reach. The refrigerator coils are usually located at the back or bottom of the fridge.
Because of their position they accumulate dust, debris, pet hair, and other dirt from around the house. Dust particles accumulate around the coils, and because of the restricted access, they do not get a regular cleaning.
Why Is It Critical to Clean Refrigerator Coils?
When refrigerator coils are clogged with dust and dirt, they do not release heat efficiently. The dirt on the coils acts as an insulator that prevents it from dissipating heat and causing the compressor to overheat.
The result is your refrigerator compressor will work harder and longer than it is designed to, use more energy, affect refrigeration and shorten the life of your equipment.
How Often Should I Clean My Refrigerator Coils?
It would be best to clean your refrigerator once every six months to prevent breakdowns and maintain its efficiency. But, if the environment inside your home is dusty or greasy or you have pets at home, consider cleaning the coils every 3-4 months for maximum efficiency.
Cleaning your refrigerator is a quick and easy task and one that should not be avoided.
Will Cleaning Refrigerator Coils Help Save Energy?
Your refrigerator accounts for the most energy use in your home. Cleaning the refrigerator coils periodically can help reduce the amount of energy that your refrigerator uses by up to 30 percent.
Cleaning your refrigerator coils using compressed air takes a little bit of effort, but the time is well spent. Developing the habit of cleaning coils with compressed air helps you avoid excessive energy use and expensive repairs or replacement.
Last update on 2025-02-19 at 11:20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API