If you have a Whirlpool lower drawer freezer, you may have noticed some ice buildup on the bottom or the back wall of the freezer. This can be annoying and inconvenient, as it reduces the storage space and makes it harder to open and close the drawer. Ice buildup can also affect the performance and efficiency of your freezer, as it prevents proper airflow and temperature regulation. Ice buildup in a Whirlpool lower drawer freezer is caused by warm and humid air entering the freezer and condensing on the cold surfaces. This can happen due to various reasons, such as faulty door seals, blocked vents, or frequent door openings. In this post, we will show you how to prevent and remove ice buildup in your Whirlpool lower drawer freezer and keep it frost-free.
How to prevent ice buildup in your Whirlpool lower drawer freezer?
The best way to prevent ice buildup in your Whirlpool lower drawer freezer is to avoid introducing warm and humid air into the freezer. Here are some tips to help you do that:
- Check the door seals for any cracks, tears, or gaps that may allow warm air to leak into the freezer. Replace them if they are damaged or worn out.
- Keep the freezer door closed as much as possible and avoid opening it too frequently or for too long. This will minimize the amount of warm air that enters the freezer.
- Do not put hot or warm food items into the freezer. Let them cool down to room temperature before storing them in airtight containers or bags.
- Do not overfill or underfill your freezer. Leave some space between the food items and the walls of the freezer to allow proper airflow and circulation.
- Defrost your freezer regularly if it is not frost-free, or at least once a year if it is frost-free. This will remove any ice buildup that may have accumulated over time.
How to remove ice buildup in your Whirlpool lower drawer freezer?
If you already have ice buildup in your Whirlpool lower drawer freezer, you will need to defrost it manually to get rid of it. Here are the steps to follow:
- Unplug your refrigerator from the power source and empty the contents of the freezer into a cooler or another freezer.
- Remove any shelves, drawers, or baskets from the freezer and set them aside.
- Place some towels or newspapers on the floor under the freezer to catch any water that may drip from the melting ice.
- Use a hair dryer, a fan, or a bowl of hot water to speed up the melting process. Do not use any sharp tools or heat sources that may damage the freezer walls or coils.
- Gently scrape off any loose ice with a plastic spatula or scraper. Do not force or pry off any ice that is stuck to the surfaces.
- Wipe down the inside of the freezer with a damp cloth and dry it thoroughly with a towel.
- Replace any shelves, drawers, or baskets in the freezer and plug in your refrigerator.
- Restock your freezer with the food items and adjust the temperature settings if needed.
FAQs about Whirlpool lower drawer freezer ice buildup
Q: How do I know if my Whirlpool lower drawer freezer is frost-free or not?
A: A frost-free freezer has an automatic defrost system that periodically melts any frost or ice that forms on the evaporator coils. A non-frost-free freezer does not have this feature and requires manual defrosting. You can check your user manual or look for a label on your freezer door that indicates whether it is frost-free or not.
Q: How often should I defrost my Whirlpool lower drawer freezer?
A: The frequency of defrosting depends on several factors, such as how often you use your freezer, how humid your environment is, and how well you maintain your freezer. Generally, you should defrost your Whirlpool lower drawer freezer whenever you notice more than 1/4 inch of ice buildup on the bottom or back wall of the freezer.
Q: What are some benefits of preventing and removing ice buildup in my Whirlpool lower drawer freezer?
A: Some of the benefits of preventing and removing ice buildup in your Whirlpool lower drawer freezer are:
- It improves the efficiency and performance of your freezer, as it allows better airflow and temperature regulation.
- It saves energy and money, as it reduces the workload and power consumption of your freezer.
- It increases the storage space and accessibility of your freezer, as it eliminates any obstructions caused by ice.
- It prevents food spoilage and contamination, as it reduces moisture and bacteria growth in your freezer.
