Cleaning behind your Whirlpool refrigerator can seem like a daunting task, but it's essential for maintaining a clean and efficient appliance. Dust, crumbs, and other debris can accumulate, affecting the refrigerator's performance and potentially even leading to safety hazards. This guide will walk you through the safe and effective process of moving your Whirlpool refrigerator to thoroughly clean the area behind it.
Preparing for the Move
Before you begin, safety is paramount. Refrigerators are heavy and can cause serious injury if handled improperly. Gather the necessary tools and enlist a helper to avoid strain and potential damage.
Tools You'll Need:
- Strong helper: This is absolutely crucial! Refrigerators are incredibly heavy.
- Measuring tape: To ensure you have enough space to maneuver the refrigerator.
- Appliance dolly (optional but highly recommended): This makes the moving process significantly easier and safer.
- Protective padding (blankets or towels): To prevent scratches on your floors and the refrigerator.
- Cleaning supplies: All-purpose cleaner, disinfectant, rags, and a vacuum cleaner.
Assessing the Situation:
- Measure the space: Carefully measure the distance between your refrigerator and the wall, and the space leading to the area where you'll move it. Ensure you have enough clearance to maneuver the refrigerator without bumping into walls or furniture.
- Clear the path: Remove any obstacles such as rugs, small appliances, or furniture that might obstruct the path.
Moving Your Whirlpool Refrigerator
This is where having a helper is essential. Trying to move a refrigerator alone is extremely dangerous and risky.
- Unplug the refrigerator: Disconnect the power cord from the electrical outlet.
- Turn off the water supply (if applicable): If your refrigerator has an ice maker and water dispenser, turn off the water supply line at the shut-off valve.
- Remove items from the refrigerator: Empty the refrigerator and freezer to reduce the weight.
- Prepare the path: Lay down protective padding on the floor to protect both your floors and the refrigerator’s finish.
- Carefully move the refrigerator: With your helper, gently tilt the refrigerator and carefully slide it away from the wall using the appliance dolly (if using) or by pushing it slowly and steadily.
Important Note: While moving the refrigerator, keep it upright as much as possible to prevent refrigerant leaks.
Cleaning Behind the Refrigerator
Once your refrigerator is safely moved, you can start cleaning!
- Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner with a crevice tool to remove dust, crumbs, and debris from behind the refrigerator. Pay special attention to any hard-to-reach corners.
- Clean the coils: Locate the condenser coils (usually located on the back or bottom of the refrigerator). These coils get covered in dust, which reduces efficiency. Use a coil brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dust and debris.
- Wipe down surfaces: Use an all-purpose cleaner and a damp rag to wipe down the walls, floors and the back of the refrigerator. Make sure to use a disinfectant cleaner to prevent the growth of germs and bacteria.
Returning the Refrigerator to its Place
After cleaning, carefully slide the refrigerator back into its original position. Make sure to reconnect the power cord and the water supply line (if applicable).
Preventative Maintenance
Regular cleaning behind your refrigerator is crucial for its optimal performance and longevity. Consider cleaning the area at least once every six months to prevent dust buildup. This simple step will save you from having to move the fridge more frequently and will help your fridge maintain its efficiency!
By following these steps, you can safely move your Whirlpool refrigerator to clean the area behind it, improving its performance and extending its lifespan. Remember, safety always comes first. If you're unsure about any part of this process, consult a professional appliance repair technician.
