Clear and clean refrigerator drip openings

PROFESSIONAL COST: $90

YOUR COST: $0

SAVINGS: $90

COMPLEXITY

Simple

TOOLS

Vacuum

Drip openings allow water that has melted from the defrost cycle to flow down to a pan located by the compressor, where it evaporates. Check your owner’s manual for the location on your fridge. On cycle defrost fridges, a channel directs the water to a tube in the food compartment (see below). On frost-free types, look for a small cap under the crisper drawers that covers a hole, or an opening in the back of the freezer or refrigerator. If the drain opening clogs, water will build up under the crisper drawers and eventually pour out onto the floor.


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1. Locate the drip opening and wipe it out, being careful not to press any debris down into the hole. Suck out crumbs with a vacuum.

pro tips!

→ Is your freezer full of frost? Check the freezer door. Frost is a sure sign that the freezer door is ajar. All it takes is one too many cartons of ice cream to hold the door open a crack. Rearrange the freezer contents so the door closes completely and you may save on a service call.