How to Clean GE Refrigerator Coils

Keep refrigerator coils free of debris

Refrigerators are durable kitchen appliances that are designed to last for many years, if properly maintained. One aspect of cleaning that is often neglected is removing the dust and debris that collects on the coils of the refrigerator. Cleaning these coils is critical to ensuring that the refrigerator does not overheat, and that is does not use more energy than needed. Cleaning refrigerator coils requires that you access the back of the appliance.

Things You'll Need

• Soft-bristled brush
• Vacuum
• Vacuum hose
• Brush attachment

Instructions

1. Grasp both sides of the refrigerator and pull it out from the wall so that the back of the appliance is easily accessible.

2. Remove the refrigerator's electrical cord from the electrical outlet to prevent the risk of shock.

3. Locate the condenser coils on the refrigerator. The coils are usually visible on the back of the appliance. In some models you must pull off the bottom grill to access the coils at the base of the refrigerator. In other models, lift the grill off the top of the refrigerator to access the coils.

4. Brush the surface of the coils with a soft-bristled brush to remove dust and debris.

5. Turn on a vacuum and use the hose to remove the debris from the floor. Then run the end of the hose gently over the surface of the coils to remove any remaining dust and debris. A vacuum hose brush attachment can be used if desired.

6. Place the bottom or top grill back onto the refrigerator, if applicable. Plug the refrigerator's cord back into the electrical outlet and reposition the refrigerator in the proper place.

Tips & Warnings

• Clean the refrigerator coils every six months for optimal performance.

• Some refrigerator coils are located inside or underneath the appliance. These coils must be cleaned by professionals.

• If you notice that the refrigerator is not cooling as efficiently as it once did, the first thing you should do is clean the coils as this usually solves the problem.

References

• GE Appliances: Refrigerator - How to Clean the Condenser Coils

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish