A Viking Built-In Refrigerator is a high-quality appliance that provides excellent cooling performance for your food and beverages. Over time, however, the coils of the refrigerator can become dirty and clogged with dust, dirt, and other debris. This can impact the efficiency of the refrigerator, leading to increased energy consumption and potentially causing the refrigerator to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Cleaning the coils on your Viking Built-In Refrigerator is an essential maintenance task that can help keep your appliance running smoothly and efficiently. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to clean the coils on your Viking Built-In Refrigerator.
Why Clean the Coils?
Cleaning the coils on your Viking Built-In Refrigerator is crucial for several reasons. When the coils are dirty, they cannot release heat properly, which can cause the refrigerator to overwork and result in higher energy consumption. Additionally, dirty coils can lead to poor cooling performance, and in severe cases, they may even cause the refrigerator to stop working altogether. Regularly cleaning the coils will help ensure that your Viking Built-In Refrigerator operates efficiently and prolong its lifespan.
Step 1: Preparation
Before starting the cleaning process, it is essential to gather all the necessary materials. You will need a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment, a coil brush or a soft-bristled brush, a sponge or cloth, mild detergent, and warm water. Ensure that your refrigerator is unplugged before you begin to prevent any potential electrical shock.
Step 2: Locate the Coils
The next step is to locate the coils on your Viking Built-In Refrigerator. Depending on the model, the coils may be located on the back or underneath the appliance. In most cases, you will need to remove the kick plate or grill at the bottom of the refrigerator to access the coils. Consult your refrigerator’s manual if you are unsure about the coil’s location.
Step 3: Vacuum the Coils
Using the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, gently remove any loose dirt and debris from the coils. Make sure to vacuum both the front and back sides of the coils. The brush attachment will help dislodge any stubborn dirt that may have accumulated on the coils’ surface.
Step 4: Brush Away Remaining Debris
After vacuuming, use a coil brush or a soft-bristled brush to dislodge any remaining dirt and debris from the coils. Be gentle during this process to avoid damaging the delicate coils. Brush in a back-and-forth motion, ensuring that you cover the entire surface of the coils.
Step 5: Clean the Coils
Once the loose dirt and debris have been removed, it is time to clean the coils thoroughly. Prepare a mixture of mild detergent and warm water in a bucket or sink. Dampen a sponge or cloth in the soapy water and gently wipe down the coils. Ensure that you reach all the nooks and crannies of the coils to remove any stubborn dirt. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the coils.
Step 6: Rinse and Dry
After cleaning the coils with the soapy water, rinse the sponge or cloth thoroughly with clean water. Wipe down the coils again to remove any soap residue. Once rinsed, use a dry cloth or towel to absorb excess moisture from the coils. It is vital to ensure that the coils are completely dry before reassembling or plugging in the refrigerator.
Step 7: Reassemble and Plug in the Refrigerator
Once the coils are dry, carefully reattach the kick plate or grill that you removed earlier. Make sure that it is secured correctly. Plug in your Viking Built-In Refrigerator, and you are ready to enjoy its optimal cooling performance.
How Often Should You Clean the Coils?
The frequency of cleaning the coils on your Viking Built-In Refrigerator depends on various factors such as the environment, usage, and the presence of pets in your home. As a general guideline, it is recommended to clean the coils at least twice a year. However, if you have pets that shed a lot or if your refrigerator is located in a dusty environment, more frequent cleaning may be necessary.
Additional Tips
To keep your Viking Built-In Refrigerator running efficiently, consider the following tips:
– Regularly check and replace the refrigerator’s water filter to ensure clean and fresh-tasting water.
– Keep the refrigerator’s temperature at the recommended setting to avoid excess energy consumption.
– Avoid placing hot items directly into the refrigerator, as this can cause the compressor to work harder.
– Clean spills and leaks inside the refrigerator promptly to prevent odors and potential damage.
Taking proper care of your Viking Built-In Refrigerator, including cleaning the coils regularly, will help maintain its performance and extend its lifespan. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can ensure that your refrigerator operates efficiently, keeping your food and beverages cool and fresh for years to come.