Cleaning The Refrigerator Drain Pan: A Step-By-Step Guide

Keeping your refrigerator clean is easy when you can see spills, food bits, or expired items. However, the drip pan, which is hidden underneath your fridge, is often the dirtiest part. The drip pan collects condensation from the defrost drain, and if the water doesn't evaporate quickly, it can overflow and damage your fridge or floor, or allow mould or bacteria to grow. To clean your refrigerator drip pan, you'll first need to locate it, which will vary depending on the type of fridge you have. Once located, you can either remove the drip pan to clean it or clean it while it's still in your fridge.

How to find the refrigerator drain pan

To find the refrigerator drain pan, also known as a drip tray, you'll first need to consult your refrigerator's manual. This will tell you where the drip pan is located and whether it can be removed for cleaning. If you don't have the manual, you can usually find a digital version with a quick internet search.

Drip pans are almost always located at the bottom of the unit, either at the front or the rear, so that gravity will allow liquid to flow easily from the top of the unit to the bottom. If your refrigerator has a kick panel or grille at the bottom front, this will need to be removed to access the drip pan. If there is no kick panel, you may need to slide the refrigerator out from the wall and access the pan from the bottom rear of the unit.

The drip pan will be located at the end of the defrost drain line, so following this line should also lead you to the drip pan.

How to clean a removable drain pan

To clean a removable refrigerator drain pan, first locate the drain pan. The drain pan is usually located in the front or rear of the fridge, but this may vary depending on the model. Check your refrigerator's manual to find the exact location. If you cannot find the manual, search for it online by looking up the make and model of your refrigerator.

Once you have located the drain pan, disconnect the water and power supply to the refrigerator. If the drain pan is located at the rear of the fridge, pull the fridge away from the wall and locate the water supply control. Turn this off, and then unplug the fridge. If the drain pan is located at the front of the fridge, simply unplug the fridge before proceeding.

Now that the fridge is disconnected, it is time to remove the drain pan. If the drain pan is located at the rear of the fridge, unscrew the back panel using a screwdriver or hex wrench. Remove the screws and carefully take off the back panel. If the drain pan is located at the front of the fridge, pop off the kick panel at the bottom of the fridge using a putty knife. Once the relevant panel has been removed, locate the drain pan and pull it out of the fridge. Be careful not to tip over the drain pan and spill any water that may have collected in it.

With the drain pan removed, it is now time to clean it. If there is water in the pan, empty it into a sink. Next, create a cleaning solution by mixing one part bleach or vinegar with two parts warm water. Alternatively, you can use dish soap and warm water. Spray or pour the cleaning solution onto the drain pan, making sure to cover the entire surface. Let the solution sit for a few minutes to disinfect the pan and loosen any buildup or mold. After a few minutes, use a cleaning rag or paper towel to scrub the pan and remove any remaining dirt or mold. Rinse the pan under warm water to remove any residual cleaner, and then dry the pan with a towel or paper towel.

Once the drain pan is dry, it can be placed back into the fridge. Reattach the removed panel(s) and reconnect the water and power supply. Your refrigerator is now clean and ready to use!

How to sanitise a non-removable drain pan

To sanitise a non-removable refrigerator drip pan, you will first need to locate it. The drip pan is usually found at the bottom of the fridge, either at the front or rear, and it collects condensation and defrost water from the freezer section. Check your refrigerator's manual to identify its exact location. If you cannot find the manual, search for it online on the manufacturer's website.

Once you have located the drip pan, follow these steps to sanitise it:

Unplug the refrigerator:

Before beginning any cleaning, it is crucial to disconnect the fridge from its power source to eliminate the risk of electric shock and prevent damage to the appliance.

Access the drip pan:

If the drip pan is at the rear of the fridge, you will need to pull the fridge away from the wall. Find the water supply control and turn it off to avoid leaks. Then, locate the screws or hex bolts holding the back panel in place and use a screwdriver or hex wrench to remove them. Carefully set the panel aside, keeping the screws in a small bowl or container so they don't get lost.

If the drip pan is at the front of the fridge, open the fridge doors to access the top of the kick panel (the slotted grate at the bottom). Use a putty knife to pop off the kick panel by sliding it between the fridge and the panel.

Remove standing water:

If there is any standing water in the drip pan, carefully empty it into a sink or drain. You can also use a wet/dry vacuum for this step.

Clean the drip pan:

To clean and sanitise the drip pan, create a cleaning solution of one part bleach or vinegar to two parts warm water. You can also use a mild detergent instead of bleach or vinegar. Soak a cloth or paper towel in the cleaning solution and use it to wipe down the drip pan, scrubbing away any residue or buildup. Alternatively, you can use a flexible claw grabber with a cleaning wet wipe wrapped around its end to reach into the drip pan and scrub it clean. Replace the wet wipe as it gets dirty.

Rinse and dry:

Rinse the drip pan thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining cleaning solution or soap residue. Dry the pan with a clean cloth or paper towels before reinstalling it. Alternatively, let the pan air dry for about 30 minutes.

Prevent future buildup:

To prevent the growth of mold and unpleasant odors, mix a solution of one part bleach or vinegar to one part warm water and slowly pour it into the drip pan after scrubbing. You can also add a few drops of scented essential oil to improve the scent.

Finally, reattach any panels you removed to access the drip pan, ensuring they are secure.

How to prevent a drain pan from overflowing

A refrigerator drain pan overflowing can be a frustrating issue. The drain pan collects condensation and water runoff that accumulates inside the appliance. If the water isn't evaporating as quickly as it collects, it can overflow and damage your fridge, the floor beneath it, or cause mould or bacteria to grow. Here are some tips to prevent a drain pan from overflowing:

Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

Clean the drain pan and line periodically to remove any debris or blockages. Use warm water and a mild detergent to clean the pan, and a long, flexible brush to clear the drain line. This will ensure unobstructed water flow and prevent clogs.

Check for a Damaged or Dislodged Drain Pan

Inspect the drain pan for any signs of damage, such as cracks or holes. If you notice any issues, promptly replace the damaged drain pan to prevent leaks and overflows. Make sure the drain pan is correctly positioned and securely in place to capture all excess water effectively.

Manage Humidity Levels

Maintain appropriate humidity levels inside the refrigerator to prevent drain pan overflows. Use a hygrometer or humidity monitor to keep track of the humidity levels. Adjust the refrigerator settings or consider using moisture-absorbing products to control excessive moisture if necessary.

Check the Seals on the Refrigerator Doors

Damaged seals allow warm air to enter the refrigerator, increasing condensation and the potential for overflows. Check the seals on the refrigerator doors to ensure they are intact and free from any damage. Replace faulty seals promptly to maintain proper temperature and humidity control.

Seek Professional Help

If the problem persists despite your troubleshooting efforts, it is advisable to contact a qualified technician for appropriate refrigerator repair services. They have the expertise and tools to diagnose the issue and provide accurate solutions.

How to prevent water from collecting in the drain pan

To prevent water from collecting in the refrigerator drain pan, you should take the following steps:

• Level your refrigerator: Ensure your refrigerator is correctly level to prevent water from overflowing the drain pan. Use a spirit level to check if the refrigerator is level and make necessary adjustments to its feet or rollers.
• Regularly clean the drain system: Maintain the drain system by regularly cleaning it to prevent clogs. Remove any debris or obstructions and flush the drain with a mixture of water and mild detergent or vinegar.
• Keep the fridge interior clean: Wipe up spills or leaks immediately and avoid leaving uncovered liquids inside the fridge, as they can increase humidity levels and lead to water accumulation.
• Inspect and maintain the door gasket: Check the door gasket for any signs of wear or damage, as a compromised seal can allow warm air to enter, causing condensation and water buildup in the drain pan. Clean the gaskets and apply a thin coating of petroleum jelly as a temporary solution.
• Monitor humidity levels: High humidity can contribute to increased condensation, so consider using a dehumidifier, especially during humid weather.
• Avoid overfilling the fridge: Ensure proper airflow by avoiding overfilling the fridge, allowing space between items for adequate ventilation.
• Regularly inspect the drain pan: Check the drain pan for any signs of wear, cracks, or damage, as water can leak out and cause potential issues. Replace the drain pan if necessary.

Frequently asked questions