Refrigerator coils are one of those hidden parts of your fridge you don’t think about until something goes wrong. Located either beneath or behind your unit, these coils help dissipate heat, keeping your fridge cool and efficient.

They’re crucial for:

  • Energy efficiency and lower electricity bills
  • Preventing premature wear on your compressor
  • Keeping your fridge running quietly and effectively
  • Extending the life of your appliance

But because they’re often out of sight, coils can collect dust, pet hair, and debris, reducing airflow and forcing your fridge to work harder. Over time, this can lead to higher energy costs or even mechanical failure.

In this blog, our appliance repair experts will explore how often you should deep clean your fridge coils, why it matters, and what you can do to keep your refrigerator running efficiently for years.

Common Issues From Dirty Coils

Dirty or clogged fridge coils can lead to:

  • Fridge or freezer not cooling properly
  • Increased electricity bills
  • Excessive compressor noise
  • Early mechanical wear and potential failure
  • Ice buildup or water leaks from strain on the system

Even a seemingly minor layer of dust can cause serious problems over time.

How Often Should You Clean Them?

Every 6–12 months is a good rule of thumb, but consider cleaning more often if:

  • You have pets that shed hair
  • The fridge is in a kitchen that gets dusty
  • You notice the fridge is working harder than usual
  • Your energy bills spike unexpectedly

Regular cleaning can prevent costly repairs and extend your fridge’s lifespan, keeping it running efficiently for years.

DIY Cleaning Tips

If you want to tackle it yourself:

  • Unplug the fridge before starting
  • Use a coil brush or vacuum attachment to gently remove dust and debris
  • Be careful around the coils—they’re delicate and can be damaged
  • Check the condenser fan and remove any hair or dust around it

If you’re uncomfortable doing it yourself, a professional home appliance repair expert can safely and efficiently clean the coils.

When a Professional Makes a Difference

Sometimes cleaning the coils isn’t enough if your fridge has:

  • Persistent cooling issues
  • Compressor problems
  • Electrical or mechanical concerns

AAA’s reliable appliance repair team can:

  • Inspect and clean condenser coils thoroughly
  • Diagnose related mechanical issues
  • Advise whether repairs are needed or if preventive maintenance will suffice

What We Can Do

At AAA Appliance, our professional appliance repair team:

  • Clean and maintain fridge coils to ensure efficient operation
  • Inspect compressors, fans, and electrical systems during coil maintenance
  • Provide honest recommendations on repairs or replacements
  • Help you avoid energy waste and costly appliance failures

Need Help With Your Fridge?

Schedule an appointment today. Our experienced technicians will tell you what’s necessary, what’s preventive, and what will keep your fridge functioning properly—without upselling or pressure.

Trust the team at AAA Appliance Service Center for all your appliance repair needs—proudly servicing most major appliance brands.