We’ve all been there – opening the fridge, only to find water pooled at the bottom. It’s a nuisance, isn’t it? The primary culprit? That small drain hole located way at the back of the fridge, often blocked by stray food particles like lettuce leaves.
A blocked drain hole can lead to mold growth, water accumulation inside the fridge, and if not addressed, even water leakage outside. Thankfully, I’ve got a simple trick shared by a Darty repairman that will clear that drain in no time!
Step-by-Step Guide to Unclogging the Fridge Drain:
Safety First! Unplug your refrigerator from the power source.
Remove the shelf covering the drain hole and the vegetable drawer.
Use a sponge to absorb and remove any pooled water.
Take a cotton swab and dip it in white vinegar.
Gently clean around the drain hole before inserting it deep into the hole, moving it around to dislodge blockages.
Pour a little hot water to rinse away the dislodged debris.
Replace the shelf and vegetable drawer and plug the fridge back in.
Voila! Your fridge drain hole is now clear. Simple, efficient, and no more water mess or mold!
So, What Can You Use to Clean the Drain Hole?
While there’s a specialized tool known as “Spargetti” designed for this, if you don’t have one on hand, a plain cotton swab will do the trick. Other alternatives include a plastic straw, a small bottle brush, a bendy wire, or even a zip tie.
Prevention is Key!
To prevent future blockages:
Avoid placing foods, especially veggies like lettuce or carrots, directly against the fridge’s back wall.
Some shelves come with a raised edge to prevent items from being pushed too far back – a built-in reminder!
Regularly clean your fridge, ideally every three months, to ensure no debris can block the drain.
Why This Method Works:
White vinegar acts as a cleaner and disinfectant, removing any mold that may have formed. The swab or cleaning tool helps dislodge any debris, while the warm water flushes it away.
Remember, this drain hole leads to a tank above the fridge’s compressor. It’s crucial to keep it clear to prevent water from accumulating and potentially spilling onto your kitchen floor.
Note: Refrain from using bleach!
This cleaning hack is universal and can be applied to all refrigerator brands, whether it’s Bosch, Whirlpool, Samsung, Liebherr, American-style, or integrated refrigerators. Happy cleaning!