How to Defrost a Refrigerator Freezer

Many modern refrigerators come with an automatic defrosting mechanism that does away with the need for manual defrosting. There are still plenty of models in homes across the country that don't defrost automatically, and even those that do are subject to breaking down and needing a manual defrost. Defrosting is not difficult to accomplish, but it pays to be prepared before attempting this task.

Things You'll Need

• Thick towels
• Soap and water

Instructions

1. Remove all food from the freezer and the refrigerator and place them in a cooler or a friend or family member's refrigerator during the defrosting process. This is a necessary step to ensure that your food does not spoil. Turn the refrigerator and freezer to the off positions or 0 (zero) position.

2. Open the doors to the refrigerator and leave them open. This is done to facilitate the defrosting process by improving the circulation of warm air into the unit. Be sure to remove crisper containers and any other removable containers.

3. Place your thick towels inside, situating them at the bottom of the refrigerator. The towels need to be thick so that they can absorb all the melting ice as it turns into water and drips down to the bottom compartment. Place a pan beneath the refrigerator to catch melting water before it drips to the floor.

4. Wait for the defrosting process to take place. How long the waiting process takes depends on the size of your refrigerator as well as how much ice you have allowed to build up. The typical time for defrosting is between six and 12 hours, but don't be surprised if it takes shorter or longer.

5. Clean the refrigerator with soap and water after the ice has completely melted and you have removed the towels. You will probably need a few extra towels to absorb all the collected water. The best tool for cleaning the refrigerator is a sponge rather than a washcloth.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not chop at blocks of ice buildup in the freeze with a sharp implement like a knife or screwdriver as you run the risk of damaging the cooling surface.