Where is the refrigerator drain tube located?

Author: Jasper Schmeler DDS  |  Last update: Sunday, June 29, 2025

On most modern refrigerators the drain tube and hole are usually located inside the refrigerator at the bottom in the back. To protect the hole, there may be a panel made from plastic that can be removed with a screwdriver. Once it is removed you'll be able to see the drain tube and drain hole.

Where can I find the refrigerator drain?

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.

Where is the drainage hole in a fridge?

It is usually found as a small opening that is located at the back of your fridge's freezer compartment, normally behind the salad drawers. However, the location may vary for different fridges and it's advisable to consult your fridge's user manual if you aren't sure of where it is located.

Where does the water go when you defrost a refrigerator?

Fridges have drain pans where water collects as melted water is removed during the defrost cycle.

Where is my fridge defrost drain?

Most refrigerator models have the defrost drain on the inside back of your freezer, so finding it shouldn't be too difficult. Once you find the drain, look and see if there is anything blocking the drain, like frozen meals, ice build-up, etc., and if there is, simply move them out of the way to allow proper airflow.

GE Refrigerator Leaking Water on the Floor - How to Clean a Drain Line

Where does the water go when defrosting an upright freezer?

A drain hose (on models so equipped) located behind the grille carries defrost water out from the appliance to where it can be drained in a pan. Sponge the excess water from the bottom of the Freezer as it collects to prevent overflowing.

Where is the drain hose on a fridge?

Locate the Drain Tube: Typically, the drain tube is found at the back of the fridge or freezer compartment. Consult your refrigerator's manual if you're unsure.

How do you unblock a refrigerator drain?

Unplug your fridge. Remove the food and any crisper drawers. Mop up any excess water and remove the drain hole cover if yours has one. Use the unblock tool that came with your fridge (or else a pipe cleaner, straw or cotton bud) to remove the food and debris build-up.

Does every fridge have a drain hole?

Most modern fridges have a drain hole that stops condensation pooling at the bottom. It's usually behind the salad or crisper drawer. But if your fridge is a few years old, it might not have this feature.

How to clear a clogged refrigerator water line?

If the water line is clogged, it can usually be cleaned out by running vinegar and baking soda through the line. Clogs are likely to occur if there is a flaw in the water line or if the water filter is not updated.

Where is the water drain in a Whirlpool refrigerator?

Blockages are most likely to occur in the defrost drain, with the drain hole usually located at the bottom-back of the freezer.

Why is my fridge leaking water onto the floor?

Here' why: As humidity in the air mixes with your refrigerator's cold temperatures, condensation forms and fills the drain pan quicker than usual. And when the pan overflows, you'll see a puddle on the floor. Fix: Manually empty the drain pain on humid days to avoid leaking.

What causes refrigerator drains to clog?

If the coils aren't defrosted periodically, ice can start building up on the coils which will significantly reduce air flow and prevent both the refrigerator and freezer compartments from cooling properly and causing a clogged or freezing defrost drain.

How do you clear a clogged drain tube?

Vinegar, Salt, & Lemon – Mix equal parts of salt and vinegar in a bowl, add a half part of lemon juice, then pour the mixture down your drain. Let it sit for 20-30 minutes then follow it up with hot water.

Why is there always water at the bottom of my fridge?

Fridges typically have a condensation drain to manage moisture. If this drain becomes clogged, it can result in water pooling at the bottom of the fridge or even on your kitchen floor.

How to clean a refrigerator drain tube?

Cleaning Defrost Drain Tube

You can flush out the drain hole with a solution made of 1 tablespoon of baking soda and 2 cups of hot tap water. Use a meat/turkey (bulb) baster to squeeze the solution into the drain hole and flush out the drain tube. When clear, you will hear water running down into the drain pan below.

Where is the drain hose on a Frigidaire refrigerator?

The drain is located under the silver evaporator coils behind the back panel inside the freezer section.

When a refrigerator defrosts, where does the water go?

The drain tube goes to a drip pan underneath the Refrigerator. Water created by the self-defrost cycle goes into the drip pan where it is evaporated.

What is the water trap under the refrigerator?

While the exact location may vary by model, drip pans are typically located under your fridge and collect defrosted ice or condensation from the compartments that store your food. Drip pans prevent water from leaking all over your kitchen floor. However, it's up to you to empty out the pan and make sure it stays clean.

Where does the fridge drain hole go?

The drain hole is a small opening located at the back of your fridge's freezer compartment. Its primary function is to allow water generated from defrosting to drain out of the fridge and into the drain pan.

What should you not do when defrosting a freezer?

Wait for the freezer to defrost. This can take several hours. Do not try and speed up the process and do not use sharp objects to remove ice. Whilst the freezer is defrosting, quickly clean the appliance's interior using a damp cloth.

How often does a refrigerator defrost itself?

The Refrigerator fresh food section defrosts automatically by means of a thermostat affixed to the evaporator coils every time the appliance cycles off (usually every 20 to 30 minutes). However, the freezer compartment must be manually defrosted whenever frost becomes 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick.

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