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5.Next, use vacuum cleaner to finish basic cleaning of condenser. The brush attachment of vacuum cleaner works particularly well at this point. The brush will allow you to get in between all fins and remove dust hiding there.
6.Finish by cleaning condenser with a rag dampened with water. Avoid using any cleaner. Since condensers job is to transfer heat any residue left by a cleaner could impede this process. Under no circumstances use something like furniture polish (example lemon furniture polish) or a dust removal spray. It will leave a waxy residue that will end up attracting more dust. Something that works extremely well is a static duster (not dusting clothes). If you are not sure what I mean, it is cleaning device that looks like a cats’ tail attached to a long handle. They are great because they pick up dust without using any chemicals.
7.Use vacuum to remove dust from cardboard cover that is near bottom rear of refrigerator. It is covering area where compressor and electrical components reside. It will usually have holes in it where dust can accumulate.
8.Vacuum any dust from floor and cavity where refrigerator normally resides. Vacuum sides of refrigerator. If there is a kick plate (floor level grille) at front of refrigerator vacuum it also. Hint: Do not remove kick plate to clean. Some are very difficult to re-install.
9.Plug in refrigerator and push back into place.
That’s it … that’s all. The whole process should have taken approximately 15 minutes.
In space of a few minutes you have accomplished a number of objectives. You have removed a major source of dust from your home; made refrigerator operate more efficiently; and lowered your electrical consumption.
Even though it is an easy job, it is one that usually gets forgotten. So don’t wait until serviceman arrives once every few years to do this.
It is a very important cleaning project for reasons already stated. Therefore, this is a job that should be placed right near top of your next spring-cleaning list
Copyright 2004 by Donald Grummett. All right reserved. Donald Grummett is service manager of an appliance repair company in Ottawa, Canada. Thirty-plus years as a technician and business owner. Additional appliance information including FAQuestions, Stains, Recycling, Newsletter, Industry News at http://www.mgservices.ca