Hometap Tip: Clean Your Refrigerator Coils

Cleaning your refrigerator coils improves your fridge’s efficiency—and, by extension, its duration/lifespan as a working kitchen appliance. With replacement compressors going for upwards of $600 and new refrigerators costing between $350 and $2,000 (depending on the bells and whistles), taking a half-hour every six months to clean your refrigerator coils is a cost-effective use of your time.

What to Do

Remove dust and dirt buildup along and between your refrigerator coils.

What You’ll Need

The Basics

• Refrigerator coil brush
• Vacuum with hose attachment
• Gloves

The Works

• Shop-Vac

How to Do It

First, locate the power source for your fridge and where the coils are located. (Carefully pull the fridge away from the wall if necessary.) Unplug your fridge, then remove the coil cover (if applicable).

If your refrigerator coils are on the bottom:

Use a refrigerator coil brush ($5-$20 at most retailers) to remove any dust, dirt, debris, and dander on and around the refrigerator coils, taking as many passes as necessary. Sweep up or vacuum displaced dirt.

If your refrigerator coils are on the top:

Lift coil cover, noting any sharp edges, then reach in to wipe down coils. Use vacuum attachment to gather up any residual debris from the coil compartment.

If your refrigerator coils are on the back:

Wipe away dirt and dust from your refrigerator coils with a refrigerator coil brush. Sweep or vacuum any debris from the floor.

Lastly, replace your coil cover and plug your fridge back in. Gently push the fridge back into place.