Fridge Drain Clearing: Tips, Steps, and More

If your fridge drain is clogged, it's important to clear it promptly to prevent water buildup and potential damage to your appliance. Luckily, clearing different types of fridge drains is a relatively straightforward process that you can do with a few simple tools and some elbow grease. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps to clear your fridge drain, share the best tools and products to use, and provide some helpful tips to keep your drain flowing freely.

What is a Fridge Drain?

Most modern refrigerators have a built-in drain system to remove excess moisture and defrost water. The drain hole is near the bottom of the back of the fridge. Water collects in this hole and flows down a drain tube into a drip tray, where it evaporates as the fridge warms up. This drainage system helps maintain the optimal humidity and temperature inside your fridge.

What Happens If You Don't Clear Your Fridge Drain?

If the drain hole or tube becomes clogged with food debris, ice, or mineral deposits, water can't drain properly. In turn, clogging leads to water pooling at the bottom of your fridge or even a layer of ice buildup. The excess moisture can cause food to spoil faster, create an unpleasant odour, and potentially lead to mould growth. In severe cases, a clogged drain can even cause water to leak out of the fridge, leading to water damage in your kitchen. In the long run, it can cause you to spend more on plumbing services.

What You Need to Clear a Fridge Drain

Having the right tools and supplies on hand is crucial for effectively clearing your fridge drain. In this section, we'll discuss the key items you'll need for the job and explain why each one is important.

Drain Cleaning Tool or Cotton Swabs

A drain cleaning tool is a specialised device designed to remove debris from drain holes. It typically consists of a flexible wire or plastic rod with a small hook or corkscrew-like tip. Cotton swabs are a more affordable alternative.

Why It's Important: These tools allow you to physically dislodge and remove any visible debris or buildup from the drain hole, which is the first step in clearing the clog.

How to Use: Gently insert the cleaning tool or cotton swab into the drain hole and twist or move it around to grab onto any debris. Slowly pull it out, removing as much gunk as possible. Repeat this process until the hole appears clear.

Baking Soda and Warm Water

Baking soda is a common household ingredient known for its cleaning and deodorising properties. Warm water helps dissolve and flush away any remaining debris.

Why It's Important: The baking soda solution helps break down and dissolve any built-up gunk or residue in the drain hole and tube, making it easier to clear the clog.

How to Use: Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 2 cups of warm water in a bowl or spray bottle. Pour or spray the solution directly into the drain hole, letting it sit for a few minutes to work its magic before moving on to the next step.

Pipe Cleaner or Flexible Wire

Pipe cleaners are long, thin wires covered in absorbent fibres, while flexible wires are sturdy yet bendable metal rods.

Why It's Important: These tools can be used to gently push through the drain tube and dislodge any stubborn clogs that the baking soda solution couldn't dissolve.

How to Use: Carefully insert the pipe cleaner or flexible wire into the drain hole and push it through the tube, moving it up and down and side to side to break up the clog. Repeat this process until you feel the wire move freely through the tube.

Spray Bottle

A spray bottle is a simple tool for evenly distributing liquids, such as baking soda solution, into hard-to-reach areas.

Why It's Important: Using a spray bottle makes it easier to apply the cleaning solution directly into the drain hole, ensuring it reaches the clog.

How to Use: Fill the spray bottle with the baking soda solution and mist it into the drain hole, making sure to cover the entire area. Repeat as needed until you have fully applied the solution.

Towels or Rags

Towels and rags are absorbent fabrics used for cleaning up spills and excess moisture.

Why It's Important: Having towels or rags on hand allows you to quickly wipe up any water or debris that may come out of the drain hole during the cleaning process, preventing further mess and damage.

How to Use: Lay a towel or rag on the floor in front of the fridge to catch drips or spills. Once the cleaning is complete, use additional towels or rags to wipe down the drain hole and surrounding area.

These tools and supplies will help you become well-equipped to tackle even the toughest fridge drain clogs. Remember to always work safely and follow the manufacturer's instructions for any cleaning products or tools you use.

Steps to Clear a Fridge Drain

Now that you have all the necessary tools and supplies ready, it's time to put them to use and clear that pesky fridge drain. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a successful drain clearing:

1. Unplug your fridge and remove any food, shelves, or drawers to access the drain hole.

2. Use a drain cleaning tool or cotton swab to remove any visible debris from the drain hole.

3. Mix 1 teaspoon of baking soda with 2 cups of warm water.

4. Pour the baking soda solution into the drain hole using a basting syringe or spray bottle.

5. Let the solution sit for a few minutes to help dissolve any remaining debris.

6. Use a pipe cleaner or flexible wire to gently push the solution through the drain tube.

7. Repeat steps 4-6 until the water flows freely through the tube.

8. Locate the drip tray at the bottom of your fridge and remove any excess water or debris.

9. Wipe down the tray with a damp cloth and replace it in the fridge.

10. Plug your fridge back in and replace any shelves or drawers.

Considerations When Clearing a Fridge Drain

Now that you have all the necessary tools and supplies ready, it's time to put them to use and clear that pesky fridge drain. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a successful drain clearing:

1. Be gentle when using tools to avoid damaging the drain hole or tube.

2. If the drain is frozen, use a hair dryer or hot water to melt the ice before attempting to clear it.

3. Consider installing a drain tube heater or insulating the tube to prevent future clogs.

4. Clean your fridge drain every 2-3 months to keep it flowing freely.

Frequently Asked Questions About Clearing a Blocked Fridge Drain

Why does my fridge drain keep getting clogged?

Fridge drains can become clogged over time due to a buildup of food debris, ice, or mineral deposits. Clogging is especially common in households with hard water, as minerals can accumulate in the drain tube. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent these clogs from occurring.

Can I use a plunger to clear my fridge drain?

While a plunger can be effective for clearing some clogs, do not use it in a fridge drain. The drain hole is small and delicate, and using a plunger could damage it or push the clog further down the tube, making the problem worse.

What if baking soda and vinegar don't work to clear my fridge drain?

If baking soda and vinegar don't clear the clog, try using a pipe cleaner or flexible wire to gently push the debris through the drain tube. You can also try using a commercial drain cleaner specifically formulated for refrigerator drains. If that doesn't work, you may need to call a professional plumber for assistance.

Need Help Clearing Your Fridge Drain?

If you've tried all the tips and steps above and your fridge drain is still clogged, it's time to call in the professionals. At All Needs Plumbing, we offer 24/7 same-day service with a $0 callout fee. Plus, seniors can enjoy a 15% discount, and you'll get $150 off hot water systems. Don't let a clogged fridge drain ruin your day - contact us today for fast, reliable service.