How to Remove Dust From a Fan Motor

By eHow Home & Garden Editor

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Dust buildup on a refrigerator's fan motor can cause the fan to seize. When this occurs the refrigerant's temperature soars and the compressor overheats, spoiling your goods. This can be prevented if you remove the dust from your fan motor on a regular basis.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Step1

Unplug the refrigerator and move it from the wall to enable yourself to fit comfortably behind it. You need to remove the dust quickly to prevent defrost.

Step2

Take off the access cover of the fan motor using a screwdriver. Place the screw in a safe place to prevent loss. The access cover is located in the center on the back of the refrigerator.

Step3

Remove the dust with a wide paintbrush or a basting brush. Firmly brush the fan motor, the blades and the condenser. Clean the front, back and sides.

Step4

Vacuum the dust from the fan motor, blades and condenser. Use the hose and brush attachment to vacuum the area thoroughly.

Step5

Check that the fan blades turn easily and smoothly. If not, replace the fan motor. This is a sign that is may seize up and spoil your food unexpectedly.

Step6

Push the refrigerator up against the wall. Plug it back in and check that everything functions as before.

Tips & Warnings

Double check that you have unplugged the refrigerator before you attempt to remove the dust from the fan motor. You are at a high risk to be electrocuted when you work on it.