If your refrigerator isn’t cooling properly, one possible reason is dirty condenser coils. These coils are responsible for getting rid of heat from the refrigerator. If they’re full of dirt and dust, they won’t be able to do their job properly. Clean refrigerator coils are a must to maintain an ideal temperature.
Fortunately, cleaning refrigerator coils is a fairly simple task that only takes a few minutes.
Signs You Need to Clean Your Refrigerator Coils
If you’re not sure whether your coils need to be cleaned, there are a few signs you can look for:
- Refrigerator not cold
- Refrigerator is loud
- Refrigerator runs constantly

Step-by-Step Instructions for How to Clean Refrigerator Coils
1. Unplug the Refrigerator
Before you start cleaning, make sure to unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet. This is the most important step!
2. Locate the Coils
The coils are usually located on the back of the refrigerator, behind the bottom kick plate, or behind the grill above the door. If you can’t see them, consult your owner’s manual for more specific instructions.
3. Vacuum the Coils
Use a vacuum cleaner with a long hose attachment to reach all the way to the coils and suck up any dirt and dust. If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner, you can also use a flexible appliance cleaning brush like this one to clean the coils by hand.

4. Wipe Down the Coils
Once you’ve vacuumed or brushed away the loose dirt, use a cloth to wipe down the coils. This will remove any remaining dirt and dust, allowing the coils to breathe freely.
5. Repeat as Needed
How often should you clean refrigerator coils? We recommend that you clean the coils every six to twelve months, depending on use.
Cleaning refrigerator coils is a simple and easy way to keep your fridge running efficiently. By taking the time to do this simple maintenance task, you can prolong the life of your refrigerator and save money on your energy bills.
If you find that cleaning your refrigerator condenser coils doesn’t solve the problem, contact a professional appliance repair company in your area for service.