How To Unblock A Fridge Drain In Cumbria

As one of the leading drain unblocking companies in Cumbria, Drainage Cumbria knows a thing or two about blocked drains including those found in fridges. If you've noticed water running down the back of your fridge or pooling at the bottom, chances are that your fridge drain is blocked. This can lead to a range of issues, from an unpleasant smell to causing your fridge to freeze up.

In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about unblocking a fridge drain in Cumbria. We'll cover the main causes of blockages, how to locate the drain hole, and what steps you can take to prevent future blockages.

The Main Causes of Fridge Drain Blockages

Fridge drain blockages can be caused by a number of factors, including:

Water Tray Overfilling

The water tray located at the back of your fridge is designed to catch any excess water that runs down from the freezer. If this tray becomes full or overflows, it can cause a blockage in the drain.

Compressor Heat

If your fridge's compressor is generating too much heat, it can cause the drain in your fridge to freeze over. This can be due to a number of reasons, including a clogged condenser coil or insufficient ventilation.

Appliance Positioning

If your fridge is not level, it can cause water to run down the back of the fridge and pool at the bottom. This can create a blockage as the water is unable to drain away properly.

Naturally Occurring Ice

Small amounts of condensation can freeze within the drain hole of your fridge, leading to a blockage.

How to Locate the Drain Hole

The drain hole in a fridge is usually located at the back of the fridge, towards the bottom. To locate it, you may need to remove the shelves and drawers from inside the fridge.

Once you've located the drain hole, check to see if there's any visible debris blocking it. You can remove this using a small tool or your fingers. However, be careful not to damage the drain hole in the process.

How to Unblock the Drain

In order to unblock the drain, you will need to take a few key steps:

Run a Snake Down the Drain

A plumber's snake is a tool designed to remove obstructions from pipes and drains. You can use one to break up any blockages in your fridge's drain. Simply insert the snake down the drain hole and twist it until it breaks up any debris.

Use a Pipe Cleaner to Clean the Drain

If you don't have access to a plumber's snake, you can try using a pipe cleaner. Bend it into a hooked shape and insert it into the drain. Gently move it around to loosen any debris and dispose of it safely.

Impact the Drain Pipe

If the blockage is stubborn, you may be able to dislodge it by impacting the pipe. This can be achieved by gently tapping the drain pipe with a soft, rubber mallet. However, be sure not to hit it too hard, as this may cause damage.

Check Your Work

Once you've removed the blockage, run some water down the drain to check that it's working properly. If it's still blocked, you may need to repeat the process or seek professional support from Drainage Cumbria.

How to Prevent Future Drain Blockages

To prevent future blockages, there are a few things you can do:

Position Your Fridge Properly

Make sure that your fridge is level and positioned away from walls and other appliances, allowing for proper ventilation.

Regularly Clean the Water Tray

Empty and clean the water tray regularly to prevent overfilling and blockages.

Be Mindful of What Goes in Your Fridge

Avoid putting anything in your fridge that is prone to leaking, as this can cause blockages over time.

Call Drainage Cumbria for Regular Maintenance

Have your fridge's drain checked by professionals on a regular basis to catch blockages early and avoid more costly issues down the line.

Contact Drainage Cumbria for Support

If you're struggling with a blocked fridge drain, Drainage Cumbria is here to help. We provide expert drain unblocking services throughout Cumbria and the North West of England, and our team of experienced professionals is on hand to provide fast and effective support whenever you need it.

Call us on 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected] to learn more about how we can help unblock your fridge drain today.