The condenser coils on your Whirlpool refrigerator are located at the back of the unit. You may need to remove the lower or top grille or kickplate to gain access to the coils. Once you have access to the coils, they should be easy to locate.
Depending on the model of refrigerator you have, the coils may be black, silver, or copper in color.
Be aware that the condenser coils are sometimes covered with dust and lint, which can cause your refrigerator to overheat. It is a good idea to check for and remove any build-up on a regular basis. If you do not feel comfortable doing this yourself, consult a qualified professional for help.
Where is condenser coil located?
The condenser coil is typically located in either the outdoor part of the central air conditioning system, or the upper back of the refrigerator. In a central air conditioning system, the condenser coil is typically situated outdoors, connected via copper tubing to an evaporator coil, which is located within the interior of the building.
The outdoor condenser coil is often encased in a protective metal cabinet to protect it from potential damage, and to also prevent debris/leaves/dust from entering it and impeding its function. In a refrigerator, the condenser is usually found on the back of the unit, near the top.
It is responsible for removing heat from the air inside the refrigerator, and its efficient operation is key to the overall efficiency of the refrigerator. Both condenser coils are essential to efficient cooling in residential homes, and should be inspected periodically for any signs of malfunction or physical damage.
How do you clean refrigerator condenser coils?
Cleaning your refrigerator condenser coils is key for optimal performance. You should clean them once a year to keep your fridge running at peak efficiency. First, unplug the fridge and identify the condenser coils, which are coiled metal strips located on either the back or the bottom of the fridge (depending on the model).
If the coils are hidden behind a back panel, remove the screws and/or plastic clips to access them. Next, use a vacuum attachment or shop vacuum to remove any dust and debris from the condenser coils and the area around them.
Next, use a damp (not soaked) rag to clean the dirt and debris that the vacuum cannot reach. Be very careful as it is easy to bend the clogged coils. To finish, dry the coils and the area with a clean towel or cloth.
Plug the fridge back in and turn it on. Your refrigerator condenser coils are now clean and ready to run at peak performance!.
What happens when refrigerator condenser fails?
When a refrigerator’s condenser fails, the refrigerator will stop cooling. The condenser, which is located at the back of the refrigerator, is responsible for making heat dissipate from the refrigerator.
It works by using fans to disperse the heat into the air. When the condenser fails, the refrigerator will become too warm and may stop functioning altogether.
One of the most common causes of a failed condenser is a clog in the coils. This can happen over time as dirt and dust collect on the coils and block their ability to release heat. The best way to prevent this from happening is to keep the area around the condenser free from dust and debris.
If the condenser does fail, the first step is to clean it. This can be done by unplugging the refrigerator, unscrewing the panel that covers the condenser, and then brushing away the dust with a soft cloth.
You can also use a vacuum to suck away any stubborn debris.
Once the condenser is clean, it may be necessary to replace the fan motor. This can typically be done at home, but it is always suggested to consult a professional before replacing any important refrigerator components.
After replacing the fan motor, the refrigerator should be plugged back in and monitored to make sure it is cooling properly.
In some cases, replacing the condenser may be necessary if the problem is more serious. Condensers can become damaged due to age and wear and tear, and replacing them can be a costly procedure. It is recommended to call a professional for help if this is the case.
What is the difference between a refrigerator condenser and compressor?
A refrigerator condenser and compressor are two separate components of a refrigerator. The compressor is the heart of the refrigerator and is responsible for making the cooling process work. It works by compressing a special refrigerant gas, which then evaporates and cools the air inside the refrigerator.
The condenser is a heat exchanger used to absorb the heat of the refrigerant gas, thus cooling the compressor and allowing the refrigerant to be further concentrated. The condenser coils are usually located on the back of the refrigerator, though some models may have them on the sides or even on the front.
Once the heated gas passes through the condenser coils it is then pumped into the evaporator, which is responsible for cooling the air inside the refrigerator. The compressor and condenser work together to provide the cooling effect that refrigerators are known for.
How often should fridge coils be cleaned?
Fridge coils should be cleaned at least once a year to ensure efficient cooling and prevent buildup of dust, dirt, and lint. The coils are normally located at the back of the refrigerator or underneath, and can be accessed with a vacuum cleaner.
It’s best to disconnect the fridge before cleaning the coils, and to be sure not to block airflow from the coils as this can cause the compressor to overheat. After vacuuming the coils, brush them with a stiff brush and make sure all debris is removed.
Make sure the coils are completely dry before you plug the fridge back in. Regularly cleaning your fridge coils helps the fridge run more efficiently and will help your refrigerator last longer.
How much does it cost to have refrigerator coils cleaned?
The cost to have refrigerator coils cleaned will depend on a variety of factors, such as the type of refrigerator, the location of the coils, and the method of cleaning used. Generally speaking, the cost to have coils cleaned typically ranges from $25-$100.
If the coils need to be replaced, the cost will be higher,If the refrigerator has multi-unit coils, or if the fridge has been leaking, this can add to the total cost. Also, if the homeowner opts for a professional to clean the coils, this can add to the overall cost.
Some homeowners may opt to clean the coils themselves and the cost to do so would be much lower. For example, the cost of an air compressor to clean the coils at home would cost around $30-$50. All in all, the total cost to have refrigerator coils cleaned will vary depending on the various factors involved.
How long does it take for fridge to cool after coil cleaning?
The amount of time it takes for a fridge to cool after having the coils cleaned is highly dependent on the particular refrigerator in question and the type of cleaning that was done. Generally, it should take between four and twelve hours for a refrigerator to return to its cooling capacity after having the coils cleaned.
If a more in-depth cleaning was necessary, the refrigerator may take longer to cool and may require extra steps to reset the compressor before it returns to its normal cooling capacity. Additionally, it is important to make sure the condenser fan is working properly and the air flows freely through the coils in order to ensure that the refrigerator is functioning properly and cooling efficiently.
How do you clean an evaporator coil without removing it?
Cleaning an evaporator coil without removing it is possible by using a solution of cleaning powder mixed with warm water. You should start by vacuuming the entire coil and its surrounding area to remove any larger debris, such as dirt and dust.
Then prepare the solution by mixing the cleaning powder with warm water, according to the product’s directions, and pour it into a spray bottle. Gently spray the solution onto the evaporator coil, making sure to evenly coat it.
Lastly, use a wet/dry shop vacuum to suction out the solution and all the dirt and debris that it has loosened. It’s important to wear safety gear during the process, such as gloves and a face mask, to prevent any inadvertent contact with the solution or dust particles.
Can Dirty coils cause refrigerator not to cool?
Yes, dirty coils can cause a refrigerator not to cool. The condenser coils located on or near the back or bottom of the refrigerator are responsible for dissipating the heat from the unit. If these coils become covered in dust, pet hair, and other debris, they are unable to effectively dissipate the heat, causing the refrigerator to not cool to the desired temperature.
This is due to the reduced air flow, which causes the refrigerator’s compressor to run as if it is trying to cool a much larger space. This causes the compressor to overwork itself, reducing its effectiveness and causing the temperature inside the refrigerator to increase.
To prevent this from occurring, the condenser coils should be cleaned regularly with a vacuum and/or soft brush. Keeping them clean will help the refrigerator run more efficiently, leading to more consistent cooling results.
Does cleaning refrigerator coils help?
Yes, cleaning refrigerator coils can help keep your refrigerator running smoothly. The coils on your refrigerator compress/condense the hot air, allowing the cooled air to be circulated throughout your refrigerator.
When these coils become clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris, it affects your refrigerator’s efficiency and reduces its ability to cool properly, causing more electricity to be used. Cleaning the coils on your refrigerator can help extend the life of your refrigerator and make it more efficient, eliminating unnecessary costs on your energy bill.
It is a relatively easy task that shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes of your time. Begin by unplugging your refrigerator, then using your vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool attachment, vacuum out all the dirt, dust, and debris that has built up on the coils.
If you don’t have a vacuum cleaner, you can also use a soft brush to remove the accumulations. After the dirt and debris have been pulled away, use a damp cloth to clean off any remaining dust. Finally, plug your refrigerator back in and you’re good to go!.
How do I fix my refrigerator that is not cooling?
If your refrigerator is not cooling, there are several possible causes. First, check and make sure the power cord is plugged in, and that the circuit breaker is not tripped. If those appear to be in order, you can try two additional things.
First, check the condenser coils on the back or bottom of the fridge and make sure that they are not clogged with dust or pet hair. If they are, use a vacuum cleaner to remove the debris and then wipe the coils with a damp cloth.
This can help your refrigerator to run more efficiently.
Second, ensure that the door is sealing properly. Gaps or cracks in the gasket around the door can cause the cold air to escape and the temperature inside the refrigerator to rise. You may need to replace the door gasket if it is damaged.
If these steps don’t work, you may need to call in a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and repair the problem.
Can Dirty coils affect cooling in the freezer?
Yes, dirty coils can affect cooling in the freezer. The condenser coils are located in the back of the freezer and they help dissipate the heat that’s generated by the compressor, allowing the refrigerator to maintain a cold temperature.
When the coils are dirty or clogged with dust, lint, and pet hair, they won’t be able to do their job properly and the air won’t be able to circulate. This can lead to a number of problems, such as warmer temperatures inside the freezer than usual, excessive ice and frost building up, and the refrigerator running more than usual to keep the temperature at the right level.
It can also increase energy costs, as the refrigerator is having to work harder than it needs to. To prevent this, it’s important to clean the coils regularly using a coil brush or vacuum. This will ensure that the coils stay in good working order and allow the refrigerator to cool properly.