How to Clean Drain Hole at Back of Fridge: Easy Tips

Although the drain hole at the back of your fridge may seem a minor thing, keeping it unclean can lead to several issues. A clogged drain hole can cause water to pool at the bottom of your fridge or underneath the vegetable drawers, creating a breeding ground for mould and bacteria.

This can result in unpleasant odours and potentially contaminate your food. So, you must know how to clean drain hole at back of fridge.

To clean the drain hole at the back of your fridge, first, unplug the fridge for safety.

Locate the drain hole, usually found at the back of the fridge interior. Remove any visible debris around it. Mix warm water with a bit of baking soda or vinegar, and pour it through the hole using a funnel. Use a flexible brush to gently scrub inside the drain tube. Finally, rinse with warm water and dry the area.

We recommend you go through the complete article because this short answer is insufficient to get the best results.

Basic Overview of a Fridge Drain Hole?

Understanding your fridge’s drain hole will help you keep your appliance in tip-top condition. Here are the details about what this component is and why it matters, along with a peek at where you might find it in various fridge types.

What Is the Drain Hole and Its Function?

At its core, the drain hole in a fridge is a tiny opening located inside your refrigerator unit. Its job is rather straightforward but essential: it allows defrosted water to escape into a drip pan, usually situated at the bottom of your fridge.

This process keeps water from pooling inside your fridge, preventing potential messes and odours. Simply put, the drain hole helps keep your fridge clean and dry, stopping mildew and mould in their tracks.

Where to Find the Drain Hole in Different Fridge Layouts

The exact spot of the drain hole can vary, depending on your fridge’s design. Here’s a quick guide to help you locate it:

Bottom Mount Fridges: If your freezer is at the bottom, the drain hole is likely situated at the back of the fridge compartment, often hidden behind the crisper drawers.
Top Mount Fridges: For fridges with the freezer on top, you’ll typically find the drain hole in a similar position to the bottom mounts, at the back of the fridge area.
Side-by-Side Fridges: These models might have the drain hole located in the freezer compartment, towards the bottom. It could be a bit trickier to spot, so look closely.

What Are The Signs of A Clogged Drain Hole At Back of Fridge?

Spotting a clogged drain hole in your fridge early can save you a right bother later on. Here’s how to tell if you’ve got a blockage on your hands and what might happen if you don’t sort it out.

Floods in the Crisper Drawer: Does your fruit and veg seem to be taking a dip? Puddles of water collecting at the bottom, especially around the crisper drawer, are a telltale sign of a blocked drain.
Unpleasant odour: A blocked drain hole can trap food debris and moisture, leading to unpleasant odours spreading through your fridge.
Frost Buildup: If you notice ice building up excessively in your fridge, it could be because the blocked drain hole is affecting the defrost cycle. This can lead to higher energy bills and even damage your fridge in the long run.

What Happens If You Ignore The Signs?

Ignoring these signs won’t do you any favours. For starters, the excess water can lead to mould and mildew, turning your fridge into a breeding ground for bacteria. Not what you want where you keep your food.

Then there’s the risk of water leaking out onto your kitchen floor, which could damage your flooring or, worse, cause a slip hazard. And don’t forget, a clogged drain can put extra strain on your fridge, making it work harder, use more energy, and potentially shorten its life.

In a nutshell, sorting a clogged drain hole sooner rather than later can save you money and hassle in the long run.

Also Read: How Often Should You Clean Your Oven

Preparing for Cleaning The Drain Hole

Now, let’s see what you’ll need and how to do it safely, without any fuss.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

First things first, let’s get your kit together. You’ll need:

Rubber gloves: Keep your hands clean and safe from any muck.
Baking soda and vinegar: These household heroes will help break down any gunk.
Warm water: To flush through the drain and help the cleaning mix do its job.
A small funnel: This will help you get the cleaning solution right where it needs to go without any spillage.
A flexible cleaning brush: Perfect for giving the drain hole and tube a proper scrub.

Safety Precautions

Now, before you dive in, here are a few bits to keep in mind:

Unplug the Fridge: Safety first. Make sure you unplug the fridge to avoid any electrical mishaps.
Remove Food and Shelves Near the Drain Hole: You don’t want your food getting in the way or getting dirty. Plus, taking out the shelves will give you better access to the drain hole.
Wear Your Gloves: Pop your gloves on to protect your hands from dirt and any cleaning products you’re using.

How to Clean Drain Hole At Back of Fridge- Easy Steps!

Alright, let’s start the mission of cleaning that fridge’s drain hole. Follow these steps and you’ll have it sorted in no time.

Locating the Drain Hole

First up, you need to find the drain hole. It’s usually at the back of the fridge, near the bottom. If it’s playing hide and seek, have a gander at your fridge’s manual; it should tell you where to look.

Initial Cleaning

Once you’ve found the drain hole, it’s time to clear any visible muck around it. Gently remove any bits of food or debris with your fingers or a soft cloth. Keep it nice and gentle to avoid any damage.

Flushing the Drain Hole

Next, mix a bit of warm water with either baking soda or vinegar. This mix is going to help break down the gunk inside. Use your small funnel to pour this solution down the drain hole. This will start loosening up any grime inside.

Deep Cleaning

Now, take your flexible brush and carefully push it down the drain tube. Twirl it around a bit to make sure you’re giving the inside a good scrub. Be gentle to avoid any damage to the tube.

Rinsing

After scrubbing, rinse the drain hole and tube with some plain warm water to wash away any leftover cleaning mix and loosened debris. You can use the funnel again to make sure the water goes right where it’s needed.

Drying and Reassembly

Before you put everything back together and plug the fridge back in, make sure the area around the drain hole is completely dry. Use a clean, dry cloth to pat down any wet spots. Once everything’s dry, you can put back any shelves or drawers you took out.

And there you have it! You’re done cleaning the fridge’s drain hole.

Bonus Tips to Prevent Future Clogs

Keeping your fridge’s drain hole clear is not just about tackling clogs when they happen; it’s about stopping them before they start. Here’s how to keep things running smoothly and avoid any future faff.

Regular Checks: Have a peek at the drain hole now and again, especially if you start to notice any water pooling or odd smells. Catching things early can save you a lot of hassle.

Quick Cleans: Every time you do a big fridge clean-out, give the drain hole a quick once-over with a soft brush or cloth. It doesn’t need to be a big job, just enough to keep things ticking over.

Mind What Goes In: Try to avoid letting food particles and other bits fall to the bottom of the fridge. These can easily end up blocking the drain hole. A bit of care can prevent problems.

Use Natural Cleaners: Every so often, run a bit of vinegar or baking soda solution through the drain hole. It’s a great way to keep things fresh without needing harsh chemicals.

Regular Maintenance Schedule

To keep everything in the proper shape, here’s a simple schedule you might follow:

Weekly: Quick visual check when you’re doing your shopping or cleaning out old food.

Monthly: A quick clean with a soft brush or cloth, especially if you notice any build-up.

Every 3-6 Months: A deeper clean using the vinegar or baking soda solution, followed by a good rinse.

FAQs

Where does the water go in the fridge drain hole?

The water that enters the fridge drain hole flows down a tube and ends up in a drip pan located under the fridge. Here, the water evaporates due to the warmth of the fridge’s compressor and other working parts. This design keeps your fridge dry and prevents water from pooling inside it.

‘Why is my fridge not draining properly?

If your fridge isn’t draining properly, it’s likely due to a clog in the drain hole or tube. Food particles, ice buildup, or other debris can block the path, preventing water from flowing through. Less commonly, a damaged or improperly installed drain tube can cause drainage issues.

How often to clean drain hole at back of fridge?

You should clean the drain hole at the back of your fridge at least once every six months.

However, if you notice signs of clogging, like water pooling or unpleasant smells, clean it immediately. Regular checks can help you spot any potential issues early.

Last Words

By now, you know how to clean drain hole at back of fridge.

Keeping your fridge’s drain hole clean is a must for preventing water buildup and odours. By cleaning the drain hole every six months, you can avoid clogs and ensure your fridge runs efficiently. You can simply use household items like baking soda, vinegar, and warm water for cleaning. Don’t forget to wear gloves for safety and unplug the fridge before starting. A little bit of maintenance goes a long way in keeping your fridge fresh and fully functional.