How to Clean the Coils on a Frigidaire Refrigerator​

Keeping your Frigidaire refrigerator running efficiently doesn’t require a major appliance overhaul — just a little maintenance. One of the most important but often overlooked tasks is cleaning the refrigerator coils. Over time, these coils collect dust, pet hair, and debris, which can hinder performance and increase your energy bills.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to clean the coils on a Frigidaire refrigerator step by step, using safe and easy methods.

Why It’s Important to Clean Refrigerator Coils

The condenser coils in your Frigidaire refrigerator are responsible for releasing heat. When they’re covered in grime, the unit has to work harder to stay cool, leading to:

• Increased energy consumption
• Poor cooling performance
• Shortened appliance lifespan

Cleaning your Frigidaire fridge coils at least twice a year can improve efficiency and extend the life of your refrigerator. 

Where Are the Coils Located on a Frigidaire Refrigerator?

Before you start cleaning, it’s essential to locate the condenser coils. On most Frigidaire refrigerators, the coils are either:

• At the back of the unit (common in older models), or
• Underneath the refrigerator behind a toe grille (more common in modern Frigidaire models)

Check your user manual for exact placement, or gently remove the toe grille at the bottom front of your fridge to see if they’re underneath.

Tools You’ll Need

To clean the coils on your Frigidaire refrigerator, gather the following:

• A vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment
• A coil cleaning brush or soft bristle brush
• A flashlight (to help you see under the fridge)
• A damp cloth or paper towel
• Protective gloves (optional)

6-Step Guide to Clean the Coils on a Frigidaire Refrigerator

1. Unplug the Refrigerator

Safety first! Always unplug your refrigerator before cleaning to avoid electric shock or injury.

2. Access the Coils

Depending on your model:

• Move the fridge away from the wall to access the coils at the back, or
• Remove the front grille if the coils are located underneath.

Use a flashlight if needed to get a better look.

3. Vacuum the Area

Use the hose attachment to gently vacuum away loose dust and debris. Be careful not to damage the coils.

4. Use a Coil Cleaning Brush

A coil brush is specially designed to fit between the coil loops. Gently sweep the brush along the coils to dislodge stubborn dirt and pet hair.

Tip: Work from top to bottom so any loose debris falls to the floor for easy cleanup.

5. Wipe Down and Vacuum Again

Use a damp cloth to wipe any surrounding areas, and finish with one last pass of the vacuum to pick up fallen debris. Also notice a foul smell during cleaning? You might need this guide on how to clean a refrigerator that smells.

6. Reattach the Grille and Plug In

Once everything is clean, replace the grille and plug your refrigerator back in. Allow the appliance to return to its normal temperature before restocking.

How Often Should You Clean Refrigerator Coils?

Experts recommend cleaning the Frigidaire refrigerator coils every 6 months. If you have pets or live in a dusty environment, consider cleaning more frequently.

Signs Your Refrigerator Coils Need Cleaning

Not sure if it’s time? Watch for these signs:

• Your fridge is running louder than usual
• It feels hot to the touch near the base or back
• Food isn’t staying cold
• Your energy bills have increased unexpectedly

These are all indicators that your Frigidaire condenser coils may be clogged with debris. it’s time to sanitize your refrigerator or even check other components like the refrigerator ice maker.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to clean the coils on a Frigidaire refrigerator, make it a part of your regular appliance maintenance routine. This small task can lead to big savings on energy costs and prolong the life of your refrigerator. Want to make sure the rest of your fridge is just as clean? Check out our 8 Steps to Clean Your Refrigerator for a full guide.

A clean fridge runs better, and that means cooler food, less waste, and lower bills.