Once the inside is dry, you need to clear the hole: to remove the blockage, you can use a small flexible brush, a plastic stick, or a thin cable tie, always avoiding sharp metal objects that could damage the duct. After removing any residue, it’s helpful to introduce a small amount of warm water using a syringe without a needle, a dropper, or a small funnel, checking that the liquid flows properly toward the collection tray on the back of the appliance. If the water flows without stagnating, it means the duct has been successfully cleared. If the blockage is particularly stubborn, repeat the process several times until the passage is completely cleared. At this point, you can reconnect the power and put the food back inside the refrigerator: remember not to attach the products directly to the back, as this could cover the drainage hole or impede the circulation of cold air.
If you’ve noticed the seals might be the problem, you have two options. First, try cleaning them: often, they’re not completely damaged, just dirty. Wash them with warm water and a little vinegar or baking soda, use a toothbrush to clean the internal folds, and dry everything thoroughly with paper towels. If that doesn’t solve the problem, and the refrigerator still won’t close, check the type of seals: some refrigerator models have the seal fused to the door (integrated), requiring a technician. If the rubber seal isn’t integrated into the door, however, you can replace the seal yourself. If you’ve identified the problem in the condensation collection tray, however, you’ll need to fix or replace it. Again, the first thing to do is unplug the appliance, then remove the lid or front grille: sometimes it’s just displaced, in which case you’ll need to gently push it back into its proper place. If the tray is broken, it needs to be replaced: you can do it yourself if you’re handy, otherwise ask a technician for help.
How to Prevent New Leaks (And When to Call a Technician)
Refrigerator water leaks are, in most cases, easily solved, but it’s still best to avoid them if possible. How? Simply perform regular maintenance to prevent potential problems that cause your refrigerator to leak. The first thing to do is regularly check the leak, looking for any debris and removing it if necessary. To prevent food from clogging the leak, it’s advisable to avoid leaving food in contact with the refrigerator wall, but rather place it a few centimeters away.
