Freezers today have so many vents and temperature sensors to prevent ice build-up, but even then, taking the time to manually defrost your freezer is often still necessary at least once a year. Whether it's the freezer compartment in your refrigerator or a standalone upright freezer, leaving the freezer door open will leave your unit prone to ice build-up, and the defrosting process is mostly the same. The local Flower Mound appliance repair experts from Mr. Appliance of Flower Mound are here with a simple way to defrost a freezer. It only takes 7 easy-to-follow steps and a bit of time. We'll also provide some tips for defrosting a freezer as they come along. So, make sure you keep reading our handy guide on how to defrost a freezer for all the information you'll need.
Step 1: Power Down
Never defrost a freezer without turning it off or unplugging it. This prevents any potential electrical hazards and also keeps your compressor from starting while you open the freezer door and raise the freezer temperature. Opening the door makes it harder for your freezer to maintain the cold temperature in your system and may result in frost buildup. If you are worried you'll forget to plug it back in, make a reminder on your phone.
Step 2: Save the Food
Before you defrost and clean your freezer, it is important to remove all the food inside the freezer. You should store the food in coolers, insulated bags, or wrap it in a blanket or towel. If this guide is serving as a "how to defrost a chest freezer" or "how to defrost a deep freezer" guide, it is important to plan ahead and reduce your freezer stock before you start, to ensure you have a place to store your frozen food.
Step 3: Preparing for the Thaw
Next, you'll want to place towels or a tarp around the base of the freezer before you let the ice melt. For freezers with a drain hose or plug, position a bucket to catch the water before you perform your manual defrost. That way, you can avoid having water on the floor you'll need to clean up.
Step 4: Thawing the Ice
For most types of freezers, you'll need to let them defrost naturally by leaving the door open, allowing water to drain out. For those who need to manually defrost their freezer faster, freezer frosting can be broken down with a quart of warm water in a bowl. This will help defrost the freezer cavity faster. Alternatively, you can defrost a freezer using a handheld steamer or a fan. Those asking, “How long does it take to defrost a freezer?” should note that the natural method will probably take a full day, or at least overnight.
Step 5: Break it Down
As the ice softens, your freezer may let you gently slide or lift the large pieces of ice using a soft spatula. Keep your freezer clear by using buckets or the sink to store the ice. Never use metal tools, which can damage the freezer liner.
Step 6: Cleanup Time
Next, you can place towels inside the freezer to soak up any additional water. Then, you should use a mild solution of one tablespoon of baking soda and four cups of hot water in the freezer. This solution will help keep your freezer nice and clean. Soapy water is also an option. It is important to clean your freezer at least once a year.
Step 7: Replug and Reload
Finally, the last step in this guide is to plug your freezer back in and start loading it with food. You don't need to wait for the freezer to come up to temperature; simply set the temperature and load the food. The frozen food will help lower the freezer temperature.
Defrosting Your Freezer Didn't Work? Call Mr. Appliance for Freezer Repair Flower Mound Homeowners Trust
You'll need to defrost your freezer to help maintain its performance and longevity. We hope our handy guide on how to defrost a freezer makes that process easy. Frost and hot foods can cause your freezer to work harder than it needs, decreasing its lifespan. If you're having to defrost too often and your freezer is prone to ice buildup, or if your older model freezer is on its last legs, you can count on Mr. Appliance of Flower Mound to inspect, diagnose, and repair your freezer to prevent frost buildup. Our professionals can also show you how to defrost during our visit. We're the best choice for appliance repairs for everything from refrigerators and ovens to washers and dryers in Frisco, Denton, and Lewisville.
Call us today to schedule your repairs if your freezer doesn't defrost or work properly.
