Cleaning the coils of your fridge may not be high on your cleaning list. You might start with larger surfaces like floors or countertops, but don't overlook this important task.
Understanding when and how to clean the coils can greatly impact your fridge's lifespan and energy expenses. Neglecting this chore could lead to higher bills.
Clean Refrigerator Coils: Expert Steps for Efficiency
"Cleaning fridge coils can significantly reduce energy use and lower your bills," says a home improvement expert. Dirty coils make your fridge work harder to maintain cool temperatures, leading to increased energy costs.
When you're shopping for a new refrigerator, it's essential to ensure the coils function well. However, maintaining the coils of an existing fridge is crucial, too. Here's how to do it.
1. Get Your Fridge Ready for Cleaning
First, unplug your fridge completely. Ensure no electricity is connected. Pull the fridge away from the wall to access the coils easily.
2. Dust Off the Coils
Next, remove the back panel using a screwdriver, like this one on Amazon. This allows you to access the coils.
"To eliminate dust, you can use an air compressor or a blower. It's quite straightforward," the expert advises. While you could use a brush, it's more time-consuming.
3. Wrap Up the Cleaning
After cleaning the coils, reattach the back panel and push the fridge back into place.
How Frequently Should You Clean the Coils?
"Regularly cleaning your coils, ideally twice a year, is critical. Clogged coils can't efficiently release heat, forcing the compressor to work harder and shortening its lifespan," advises another electrical expert.
It's wise to follow this advice every six months to keep your fridge running smoothly and reduce electricity usage.
Impact of Dirty Coils on Your Refrigerator
Understanding how to clean coils is vital for efficiency. Dusty coils hinder heat release, which leads to increased energy consumption and higher bills.
"Though it may seem minor, this task significantly affects your refrigerator's performance," an industry expert states. "Staying on top of cleaning every six months will yield long-term benefits."
