How to Empty the Condenser Pan in a Refrigerator

The condenser pan is behind the front base grille.

The purpose of a condenser or drip pan underneath a refrigerator is to catch the water that drips down from the refrigerator during its normal defrost cycles. The water typically evaporates because it's located near the condenser, which is a source of heat. Air circulation also aids in the evaporation. An excessive amount of water in the condenser pan can be caused by too much defrosting action going on. An example of this is if the refrigerator/freezer door is left open for an extended period of time. The large amount of water will overflow the pan and spill onto the floor. To avoid this, you need to empty and clean the condenser pan.

Things You'll Need

• Flashlight
• Dishwashing detergent or baking soda
• Dish cloth
• Dish towel

Instructions

1. Unplug the refrigerator's power cord from the electrical outlet. Or turn the electricity off at the breaker box to prevent electrical shock.

2. Locate the front base grille at the bottom of the refrigerator. Grasp both ends of the grille and pull it forward to release the mounting clips from the holes. If the base grille doesn't pull away, grasp it from underneath and pull up from the bottom to rotate it out instead. Set the grille aside.

3. Look underneath the refrigerator to locate the condenser pan -- you may need to use a flashlight. It will be above the condenser coils. Grab the front of the pan and slide it out toward you.

4. Dump the contents of the condenser pan in the toilet or outside. Fill the kitchen sink with enough warm water to wash the pan in. Mix in a few drops of dishwashing detergent or a teaspoon of baking soda.

5. Wash the pan well in the sink with a dish cloth. Rinse it with clean tap water, then dry it with a dish towel.

6. Slide the condenser pan back in place underneath the refrigerator. Line up the mounting clips on the grille with the holes in the refrigerator. Push it forward to snap it back into place. Restore power to the refrigerator.

Tips & Warnings

• Check the condenser pan on a regular basis; dump and clean it as needed.

• Use care when working underneath a refrigerator because there may be sharp edges and other hazards.

References

• AcmeHowTo.com: How to Clean or Adjust the Drain Pan
• Home Sweet Solutions; How to Make Your Refrigerator Last Longer; Jessica Tolliver
• University of Florida IFAS Extension; Keeping it Clean: Cleaning Your Refrigerator; Mary N. Harrison; May 2002