Cleaning or Replacing the Condenser Fan in Refrigerators

Technically Reviewed by Oleg Chudnovski, CEO on Nov 25, 2024 | Written by Olga Larina

In this article…

• Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor – How it Works & Installation Tips
• How to Replace a Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor
• How to Clean a Condenser Fan in a Refrigerator
• FAQ: Common Questions Asked About NF Error

Household appliances, kitchens and laundry are very popular and can be found in every house worldwide. Nowadays, we can’t imagine our daily routine without them, especially when discussing food and meal storage. It’s easy to run out of fridge space these days. Many households have two fridges, which might be plus a chest freezer. Or you have a full-sized kitchen, a mid-sized (like a college dorm fridge) in the basement, a small chest freezer, and a beverage fridge. Obviously, a refrigerator is one of the most necessary appliances.

However, like any other appliance, refrigerators can break down. Based on our approximately 20 years of experience, when you face problems with them, you must be sure that the refrigerator technicians will return them to life as soon as possible. The professionals at Spark Service PRO can solve most issues with all types and brands of refrigerators.

If you need help cleaning or replacing the condenser fan in refrigerators, we are ready to help. Please check if you are located in our service area of southern Ontario, which includes Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area, and Simcoe County.

When you contact us by phone or leave a request online, our experts will provide same-day fridge repair services. Soon, you will be satisfied with a well-done job at reliable prices!

Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor – How it Works & Installation Tips

A condenser fan is used on frost-free refrigerators that have a condenser coil at the bottom of the cabinet, inside the compressor compartment. The fan runs whenever the compressor runs, drawing cool room air through the front grille and circulating it through the condenser coils, over the compressor, and back out the front grille into the room. The circulating air helps cool the condenser coils’ compressor and refrigerant. The air also helps evaporate the water in the drain pan.

If your condenser fan stops, the refrigerant temperature will rise, and the compressor may overheat, raising the refrigerator’s temperature. You should check to see if obstructions prevent the fan blades from turning. The motor bearings are likely worn out if the blades do not spin freely.

Condenser fan motors are usually unique to each refrigerator model. When you contact our Spark representatives, you should provide them with your appliance’s full model number and brand. You can also send us a photo of the sticker in your refrigerator’s fresh food compartment with all the necessary information about the refrigerator. This information will help us avoid delays in finding the specific condenser fan motor you need.

How to Replace a Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor

Below, we’ll describe the most recommended steps for replacing a fridge condenser fan motor. Condenser fan motors are usually found near the bottom of the appliance behind a rear access panel. Follow several simple 6 steps:

1. Unplug the power cord of your appliance.
2. Move the refrigerator away from the wall. Removing the base grill and raising the front levelling legs are sometimes necessary.  When you are finished, roll the appliance forward.
3. Detach a water supply line from the inlet valve before you can remove the access panel. Shut off the water supply. Unthread the screws securing the water supply line retainer to the rear panel, if applicable. Be prepared for some water to spill. Then, unthread the screws and set the panel aside.
4. Reach in and push the condenser fan blade off the motor shaft. Unthread any mounting screws securing the fan motor to a mounting bracket. Disconnect the wire connector to remove the old motor fully.
5. When installing a new condenser fan motor, be aware you may need to transfer rubber mounts or grommets from the old motor to the new one. Connect the wire connector, then align the motor on the bracket and thread the mounting screws. Align the fan blade on the motor shaft, then push until the blade is fully seated.
6. After that, follow all these steps in reverse order. Once the repair is completed, turn the water supply back on. If applicable, plug the power cord back in, and your refrigerator should be ready for use.

Of course, many DIY videos exist on the Internet, but different models can have specific peculiarities when replacing the condenser fan motor. Thus, we’d like to advise: “If you are not sure you can do this, contact the professional refrigerator technicians.” This helps to avoid unwanted consequences if something goes wrong.

How to Clean a Condenser Fan in a Refrigerator

The other important thing you must know is how to clean a refrigerator’s condenser fan. Toronto residents are fond of home pets. Most keep dogs, cats, and other pets. However, pet hair gets into the refrigerator’s cooling system and clogs it. Most of our customers did not even realize they could remove the back panel and clean the dust and pet hair from the condenser fan. The condenser coils must be cleaned every six months.

Condenser coils are responsible for removing heat from refrigerators and freezers. The large, radiator-like coils are located at the back or beneath the unit. When dust and dirt cling to the coils, it’s harder for the refrigerator to remove heat. The result is increased energy consumption. Without regular cleaning, this can lead to problems and costly repairs. Cleaning the condenser fan is easy. We use a soft brush, remove dust from the entire unit, and thoroughly vacuum the area.

Regular cleaning of the condenser fan and coils is essential for maintaining your refrigerator’s efficiency and longevity. Neglecting this simple maintenance can lead to increased energy costs, strain on the compressor, and avoidable repairs. By keeping these components clean, you ensure optimal performance and extend the life of your appliance.

– Oleg Chudnovski, SEO of Spark Service PRO

While doing this, we explain how cleaning the fan a few times a year will extend the life of their compressor and refrigerator and decrease the number of times they need technicians.

Still Need Help With Condenser Fan or Coil?

Spark Service PRO is a leading refrigerator repair service company in Toronto, the Greater Toronto Area, and Simcoe County. Our fridge experts offer high-quality repair, installation, and replacement services at reasonable prices. Moreover, we provide services on a same-day basis, so you should not waste your time waiting for the fridge technicians. We will visit your property and help with cleaning or replacing the condenser fan in refrigerators as soon as possible.

Reach out to us at 888-242-0777 or our easy-to-use online scheduling tool. Choose a time that fits your schedule, and our team will be there promptly. Our technicians will handle everything, from diagnostics to final testing, ensuring your fridge runs smoothly.