Removing The Drip Pan From Your Fridge: A Step-By-Step Guide

Drip pans are located at the bottom of fridges and collect defrosted ice or condensation from the compartments that store food. They prevent water from leaking all over the kitchen floor. However, it is up to the owner to empty and clean the drip pan. This should be done every three months to prevent the build-up of germs and mould. To remove the drip pan, you must first locate it at the bottom of the refrigerator, usually near the front or back. Then, remove the front grill at the base of the fridge by either pressing tabs or unscrewing it, depending on the model. Once the grill is off, slide or carefully pull out the drip pan.

Locating the drip pan

Firstly, refer to your refrigerator's manual to determine the location of the drip pan. Drip pans are typically found in the front or rear of the fridge, either removable or non-removable. If you don't have a physical copy of the manual, you can search for a digital version by checking the manufacturer's website or performing a quick online search using the model number, which can be found inside the fridge on a manufacturer's sticker.

If your drip pan is located at the rear of the fridge, you will need to disconnect the water and power supply before accessing it. Unplug the fridge and turn off the water supply control to avoid any leaks. Pull the fridge away from the wall to access the back panel. Locate the screws or hex bolts holding the back panel in place and use a screwdriver or hex wrench to loosen and remove them. Carefully set the back panel aside, being mindful not to misplace the screws.

On the other hand, if your drip pan is located at the front of the fridge, you will need to remove the kick panel at the bottom. Open the fridge doors to access the top of the kick panel, which is the slotted grate at the bottom. Use a putty knife to carefully pop off the kick panel by sliding it between the fridge and the panel. Once one side is loose, you can completely detach the kick panel and set it aside.

Now, look inside the back or kick panel to locate the drip pan, which should resemble a small rectangular tray. Grab the drip pan with both hands and attempt to pull it out gently, being careful not to tip it over. If the drip pan is removable, it should come out easily. If it cannot be removed, it is a non-removable drip pan, and you will need to clean it while it's still inside the fridge. Additionally, if your drip pan has heating coils on top, it is non-removable.

Removing the front grill

To remove the front grill of your fridge, you'll first need to locate the drip pan at the bottom of the refrigerator, usually near the front or back.

Once you've located the drip pan, it's time to remove the front grill. Depending on your fridge model, this can be done by either pressing tabs or unscrewing it. If your fridge has screws, use a screwdriver to gently loosen and remove them. Set the screws aside in a small bowl or container so you don't lose them.

After removing the screws or pressing the tabs, gently lift or pull off the front grill. With the grill removed, you should now have clear access to the drip pan.

If you're planning to clean the drip pan, it's important to first unplug your refrigerator to prevent any electrical accidents. Additionally, make sure to handle the drip pan with care, as it may contain a pool of murky water that can spill.

Sliding out the drip pan

Firstly, locate the drip pan at the bottom of the refrigerator, usually near the front or back. If you are unsure where it is, check your refrigerator's manual or search for the model online. Once you have located the drip pan, remove any screws or gently push the clips to release the front grill or kick plate. This will expose the underside of the fridge, where the drip pan is located.

The drip pan is a shallow, rectangular or oval-shaped container made of plastic or metal. Carefully lift or slide it out. It may be situated on rollers or have tabs that need to be released first. Be gentle, as there may be a pool of water in the pan that could slosh around if you're not careful.

Once the drip pan is out, empty any water or residue and clean it thoroughly with mild detergent, warm soapy water, or a bleach solution. Rinse and dry the pan before placing it back into the fridge.

Finally, reattach the front grill or kick plate, ensuring it is locked or screwed in securely. Plug the refrigerator back into the power outlet and check that everything is functioning properly.

Emptying and cleaning the drip pan

Once you have located the drip pan, it is time to clean it. If your drip pan is removable, it will slide out easily. If your drip pan has heating coils on top of it, then it is non-removable and must be cleaned while still inside the fridge.

If your drip pan is removable, there may be standing water inside it. While the heat from inside your fridge should cause the water to evaporate, there may still be some left. Pour the water down the sink and set the drip pan in your sink ready for cleaning.

To clean the drip pan, create a solution of 1 part bleach to 2 parts warm water in a clean spray bottle. Spray the solution onto the drip pan and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. This will help to disinfect the drip pan and loosen any mould or mildew.

After a few minutes, use a cleaning rag or paper towel to wipe down the inside of the drip pan. Work from one side to the other to avoid spreading mould. Apply a firm amount of pressure to break apart any built-up residue.

Rinse the drip pan under warm water to remove any remaining cleaning solution. Dry the drip pan with a towel or paper towels before returning it to the fridge. Ensure there are no water droplets left on the pan, otherwise, mould may develop again.

If your drip pan is non-removable, you can clean it by wrapping a cleaning wet wipe around the end of a flexible claw grabber. Alternatively, you can unbend a wire hanger and wrap the wet wipe around one end. Push the claw grabber into the drip pan and carefully move the wet wipe around the edges to scrub it clean. Change the wet wipe every 1-2 minutes until the drip pan is clean.

Once you have scrubbed the drip pan, mix 1 part bleach with 1 part warm water and pour the solution into the pan. This will help to prevent mould from growing.

Reinstalling the drip pan

Once you have cleaned the drip pan, it is important to dry it thoroughly before reinstalling it. Use paper towels or a cleaning cloth to wipe the pan dry. Make sure there are no water droplets left on the pan, as this could lead to the growth of mould again.

If your drip pan is removable, you can now slide it back into your fridge. It should be placed in its original position and secured with screws or latches. Reattach any panels or housing that were previously covering the drip pan. Ensure that everything is locked or screwed in securely.

Finally, reattach the front grille or kick plate. Align it with the clips or screw holes and apply gentle pressure to snap the clips back into place. If screws are required, insert and tighten them.

Now that your drip pan is clean and securely in place, you can plug your refrigerator back into the power outlet. Check that everything is functioning properly.

Frequently asked questions