How To Unblock Defrost Drain In Fridge In Cumbria

Introduction

Drainage Cumbria are a drain unblocking company in Cumbria, serving the North West of England. We have been helping homeowners and businesses to fix their drainage problems for many years. One of the frequent issues we deal with is clogged defrost drain in refrigerators. A clogged defrost drain can cause water to accumulate in your fridge and eventually cause leaks, which can damage your fridge and the contents inside. In this article, we will show you how to unblock a defrost drain in your fridge in Cumbria.

Understanding the Drainage System in Your Fridge

Before knowing how to unblock the defrost drain in your fridge, it's essential to understand how the drainage system in your fridge works. When you open your fridge, you will notice a small channel or drain hole in the back or bottom; this is where the water flows through. During the defrost process, the ice melts, and the water runs down the drain tube and is deposited in a pan located at the bottom of the fridge. The water is then evaporated by the heat generated by the fridge's compressor to prevent it from overflowing.

Impact of a Clogged Drain in Your Refrigerator

If the drain tube is clogged, water will stop flowing down the tube, and it will start to accumulate in your fridge. This can cause several problems. First, the temperature inside your fridge will be affected, as the water will change the temperature during the cooling cycle. Second, the accumulated water will cause the fridge to work harder to cool the contents inside, causing reduced energy efficiency and increasing your electricity bill. Finally, if the problem is not addressed, it can cause leaks and water damage to your fridge's contents and structure.

Common Ways to Unblock the Drain in Your Refrigerator

There are several methods we recommend to our clients when they notice a clogged drain in their refrigerator. Here are some of the common ways to unblock the drain:

Method 1: Using Bleach

Bleach can be used to dissolve the clogs and clear the drain. Mix 1/2 cup of bleach in a gallon of water and pour it into the drain. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes, and then flush it with hot water. This should remove any debris and clogs stuck in the drain.

Method 2: Removing the Drawer and Clearing the Drain

Another method to clear the drain is by removing the vegetable and fruit drawer at the bottom of your fridge. Look for the drain tube located at the back of the fridge and use a small pipe cleaner or thin wire to gently remove any debris stuck inside the tube.

Method 3: Check the Drain Tube

If the above methods didn't work, check the drain tube to ensure it's not faulty. A faulty drain tube can cause water to leak inside and damage the fridge's contents. If you notice that the tube has become brittle or cracked, replace it with a new tube.

Remember to always unplug your fridge before any cleaning or unblocking procedures.

Ensuring Your Fridge is in Working Order

Maintaining your fridge is critical to avoid such issues. Here are some tips to keep your fridge in working order:

Regular cleaning

Clean your fridge regularly to prevent the accumulation of dust and debris that can clog the drain. Use a mixture of diluted soap and hot water to clean the fridge thoroughly, and the drawers.

Check the side vents

Check the side vents and ensure they are not blocked by anything as they help to dissipate heat generated by the fridge's compressor.

Regularly defrost your fridge

Regularly defrost your fridge to prevent the accumulation of ice that can cause the drain to clog.

Check the temperature

Check the temperature inside your fridge regularly. A temperature of between 35F and 38F is ideal, and the freezer temperature should be at 0F.

Keep the drain hole clear

Clean the drain hole regularly with hot water and a mild cleaning solution to prevent any debris from accumulating and clogging the drain.

Conclusion

A clogged defrost drain in your fridge can cause water to accumulate and damage its contents. The simple methods above should help you unblock the drain and prevent further damage. However, if the problem persists, don't hesitate to contact Drainage Cumbria, your professional drain unblocking company in Cumbria. We offer our services throughout North West England and can help you fix all your drainage problems. Call us today at 01228 734162 or email us at [email protected] to schedule a service.