Why the hole should always be cleanedNever allow it to become clogged! That's really what the little hole in the back of the fridge is for

What is the little hole in the back of the fridge for?

Everyone has it, hardly anyone knows its exact meaning: the inconspicuous hole on the back wall of your refrigerator. But this tiny detail fulfills an absolutely crucial task for the proper operation of your device and the shelf life of your food!

The small hole on the back wall is a drainage hole – for condensation. This is created when you go to the refrigerator: you open the door and the warm air flows in. This increases the humidity inside. Water droplets form and land primarily on the back wall.

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The reason: The temperature inside the refrigerator remains lowest on the rear wall because this is where the cold is generated. That's why the moisture condenses right there. The water then runs down the wall and is collected by an inclined device and drained through the hole.

From there it flows into a special collection container, which is conveniently located at the back of the refrigerator, directly above the warm cooling unit. Finally it is sent to the compressor where it can evaporate due to the heat.

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Why the hole in the refrigerator should never be blocked

Even small dust particles that get into the refrigerator when you open it could block the drain – but so can leftover food. And once the hole is blocked, the condensation can no longer drain away. The result: unsightly puddles in the refrigerator, which are not only unhygienic, but also form the ideal breeding ground for bacteria.

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But that's not all! Your device then has to cool significantly more to maintain the temperature – a guarantee that your energy consumption will increase. After all, your refrigerator requires more electricity. In addition to a greatly reduced lifespan of the device, you will then have to expect significantly higher monthly costs.

Clean the refrigerator hole properly – this is how it works

Is your fridge hole blocked? Then it's important to clean the drain as quickly as possible – like this:

1. Prepare for cleaning: First, clear your refrigerator of all compartments and food that are blocking your path. You need space and a clear view.

2. Remove coarse dirt: Grab a rag and wipe away any accumulated water. Use a small brush – or toothbrush – to carefully remove any visible dirt and food residue on the edge of the hole.

3. Resolve the blockage: Now you need a small tool with which you can clear the blocked hole of dirt. A pipe cleaner, cable ties, a cotton swab, a toothpick or a thin wire can be used. Then carefully insert the tool into the drain channel and gently move it back and forth to loosen the blockage.

4. Disinfection for freshness: Finally, mix a solution of equal parts warm water and vinegar. Soak a cloth in it and place it on the drain hole for a few minutes. Then rinse with some warm water.

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Important: If mold is the cause of the drain blockage, it is best to defrost the refrigerator completely and clean it thoroughly!

After cleaning, you should check the drain hole regularly, especially in summer when the humidity is high, to prevent puddles, higher energy consumption and faster freezing. This means your refrigerator not only stays hygienic and efficient, but also lasts as long as possible! (esb/vdü/ake)