Things You'll Need

Instructions

Getting to the Coils

1

Find the coils. On older-model fridges, the coils are exposed on the back. On newer models, the coils are on the bottom, hidden behind a cover panel or kick plate.
2

Unplug your fridge and pull it away from the wall (on built-in fridges, turn off the circuit breaker).
3

Remove the cover plate. On some models it's held in by spring clips; others may use a couple of small screws.
4

Use the long, narrow attachment of your vacuum to clean any accumulated dust on bottom coils. Clean back-mounted coils with the upholstery brush attachment.
5

Use warm water and dish soap to remove the sticky buildup of cooking fats if you haven't cleaned your refrigerator coils for a while.
6

Replace the cover panel, slide the fridge back into place and plug it in (or turn on the circuit breaker).