How do I stop condensation on the back of my fridge?

Author: Schuyler Langosh  |  Last update: Tuesday, January 13, 2026

Firstly, make sure that your fridge temperature is set within the recommended range. Secondly, avoid overloading your fridge with food, and ensure that there is proper airflow inside the fridge. Lastly, you can also consider using a dehumidifier inside the fridge to reduce humidity levels.

Why is there condensation at the back of my refrigerator?

It is normal for some condensation to form inside your appliance when it is connected to the mains for the first time, or after not being used for a long time. This will go away when the interior temperature is stabilized.

Why is my refrigerator sweating on the back?

The glass sweats because the surface of the glass is cooler than the dew point of the surrounding air. Generally this means warmer, moist air. The air inside the fridge is cooler and as importantly drier. This means that the dew point is very low, lower than the surface temperature of the glass.

Why is water dripping down the back of my fridge inside?

It could be that the defrost drain is clogged, which is quite common in refrigerators, especially if they have been running for a while without being defrosted. Ice can build up and block the drain hole, causing the water to overflow and drip down.

What number should your fridge be on?

Fridge temperature settings are generally numbered from 1 to 5, with 5 being the coldest. A fully stocked fridge may need to be set to a higher setting (around 3 or 4), whereas one with more space is best suited to temperature setting 2 or 3.

Tips to Prevent Condensation in the Fridge

What level should your refrigerator be on?

The ideal refrigerator temperature is 40 degrees Fahrenheit or below in the main part of the fridge. The optimal temperature for keeping foods cold is 37 degrees Fahrenheit. If you're wondering what temperature should a refrigerator be, put a thermometer inside your fridge.

Why is my fridge freezing up at the back?

BLOCKED AIR VENT

Air vents in the refrigerator are typically found on the back wall and help circulate air to help keep the temperature consistent throughout the fridge. You may notice food freezing toward the back of the refrigerator if items are blocking this air vent.

Should there be water droplets on the back of the fridge?

While it is normal to find a small amount of water or ice on the back of your fridge, it is not normal for there to be large amounts of frost/ice build-up inside your appliance.

Where is the condensation drain on a refrigerator?

The hole is usually behind the salad drawers, though this varies depending on your fridge's make and model. Check your machine's user manual if you're unsure of its location. Nowadays, most fridges come with drain holes. But if yours is a few years old, it might not have one.

How to stop refrigerator condensation?

Keep your fridge in a cool room (make sure the temperature doesn't get over 30°C) and keep your fridge door closed as much as possible. Put fruit, veg and salad in the crisper drawers and leftovers in sealed tubs. This will stop moisture escaping from food and causing condensation.

How long does a fridge last?

According to the 23rd annual portrait of the U.S. appliance industry, standard refrigerators usually last anywhere from 10 to 18 years, with an average life expectancy of 14 years. Compact refrigerator lifespan is even shorter, ranging from 4 to 12 years with an average life expectancy of 8 years.

What does condensation on the outside of the fridge mean?

Excess condensation can be caused by opening the cool room or freezer door too often. It can also be caused by damaged gaskets (seals) that are allowing the cold air to leak out. Another reason might be that the temperature of the cold room is set too low.

What to do if fridge is sweating?

Let's explore some of the most common causes of fridge sweating.
  1. Humidity. ...
  2. Door Seal. ...
  3. Overloading. ...
  4. Temperature Settings. ...
  5. Clean the Inside of Your Fridge. ...
  6. Check the Door Seal. ...
  7. Adjust the Temperature Settings. ...
  8. Remove Any Items Blocking the Air Vents.

How to clean a drain hole at the back of a fridge?

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Drain Hole at the Back of Your Fridge
  1. Step 1: Unplug the Fridge. ...
  2. Step 2: Locate the Drain Hole. ...
  3. Step 3: Remove any Obstructions. ...
  4. Step 4: Clean the Drain Hole with Hot Water and Vinegar. ...
  5. Step 5: Use a Pipe Cleaner or Small Brush to Remove Debris. ...
  6. Step 6: Rinse the Drain Hole with Hot Water.

How do I clear a condensation hole in my fridge?

Make the condensate channel and drain hole accessible. Wipe away all off the liquid thoroughly, with a dry cloth. Remove any coarse soiling. Clean the drain hole with a bent pipe cleaner.

How to clean the back of your fridge?

Using a microfiber cloth

Wipe down the wall behind your fridge with a homemade cleaning mixture of equal parts water and vinegar. This will remove caked-on grease and grime and prevent the paint from getting permanently stained. Wipe down the back panel of your fridge with the water-vinegar mixture, too.

Where does the drain at the back of the fridge go?

Under normal circumstances, this water runs down a drain hole and collects into a tray at the bottom of the appliance, close to the compressor. The heat from the compressor then usually evaporates the water inside the tray. However, if the drain hole is blocked, the water will collect inside the fridge.

Why is my fridge dripping water in the back?

Leaking water line: If your fridge leaks from the back or decreases ice production, there might be a loose or damaged water line. Inspect the water line and replace it if damaged. If the leak is at the valve, try tightening the connection, and call a professional if the issue persists.

Why is the back wall of my fridge wet?

The wet wall is part of normal functioning. The degree of air humidity and the amount and temperature of fresh food can influence the degree of condensation inside the fridge. During the cooling process, the humidity/moisture starts to condense on the back wall as this is one of the coldest places in the fridge.

Is condensation in the fridge normal?

Condensation inside a refrigerator is generally normal and is caused by the cooling process. As the fridge cools, the air inside becomes cooler and can no longer hold as much moisture. The excess moisture then condenses on the interior walls of the fridge.

What number should my fridge be set at?

The Department of Agriculture states bacteria multiply quickly in the "Danger Zone," which is temperatures beginning at 40°F (4.5°C). It's best to set your temperature gauge a few degrees below that. Most experts recommend that the ideal temperature setting for a refrigerator is between 35-38°F (1.6-3.3°C).

How do you defrost the back of a refrigerator?

First, turn off your appliance at the wall. Make sure you take out any food, then prop the door(s) open and put a towel down on the floor. Now place a bowl of hot water on the bottom shelf and leave for a couple of hours. When all the ice has melted, wipe down the insides with a sponge.

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