How to Clean a Blocked Fridge Drain Hole?
A clogged fridge drain hole can cause leaks, bad smell, and mould growth. Unplug the fridge, locate the drain hole, remove debris, clean with a brush, flush with warm water, and clean the drain pan.
Why Is the Fridge Drain Hole Important?
The drain hole is part of your refrigerator's self-defrosting system as excess water from condensation find its way to the drainage pan (located at the bottom of the fridge) through it. If it's blocked by food debris, dirt, or ice, water can't drain properly, which will lead to leaks inside the fridge, water pooling on the floor underneath the appliance, unpleasant odours, mould growth, and a possible damage to your refrigerator.
Signs of a Clogged Fridge Drain Hole
- Water pooling at the bottom of the fridge
- Unpleasant odours coming from the fridge
- Visible mould or mildew near or inside the drain hole
- Water dripping onto shelves
Cleaning a Fridge Drain Hole Step-by-Step
1. Unplug the Fridge
Before you start, always unplug the refrigerator as a safety precaution.
2. Find the Drain Hole
The drain hole is usually located inside at the bottom back of the fridge, just above the crisper drawers.
3. Remove Debris, Dirt and Ice
Use a soft cloth or a paper towel to remove any food particles, mould, or debris blocking the drain hole. If the drain hole is blocked by ice, you may have to wait for a while until it becomes loose and easier to remove.
4. Use a Pipe Cleaner or Thin Brush
Use the plastic brush that comes with the fridge to clear the blocked drain hole - normally it's mould growth that blocks it, sticking to the sides. If you haven't kept the little plastic brush, you can use an interdental one or a straw cleaner or a pipe cleaner, a cotton swab, or any other flexible cleaning brush. Gently push in the brush and carefully move it around to clear the blockage in the drain tube.
5. Flush the Drain Hole with Warm Water
Fill a syringe, turkey baster, or a small squeeze bottle with warm water and carefully flush the drain hole. This will help to flush away any dirt and debris that have been already broken down or not cleaned with the brush before that.
6. Check the Drain Pan
After cleaning the drain hole and tube, check the drain pan underneath the fridge. Empty it and wipe it clean and dry.
7. Plug the Fridge Back In
Once everything has been cleaned and dried, plug the fridge back in.
How to Prevent Future Blockages?
- Regularly check and clean the drain hole - make it a part of your fridge-cleaning routine.
- Try not to spill food and liquids near the drain hole.
- If possible, store food in sealed containers for less debris.
- Keep your fridge at the recommended temperature to avoid ice buildup.
When to Call a Professional?
If your fridge continues to leak water after the drain hole has been cleaned, the problem might be more serious, such as deeper blockage, or an issue with the defrosting system. Calling a fridge repair technician for proper diagnosis will help to prevent further damage.
Conclusion
We hope that this article has helped you to quickly and effortlessly clean your fridge's drain hole, removing the source of bad smell and floor leaks. Make sure to regularly check and take care to clear away any dirt, ice build-ups and debris that may block it for your fridge to run smoothly.
