Defrosting the fridge and freezer in a student apartment – easier than you think
Defrosting the fridge and freezer are the kinds of tasks you easily put off until “next week.” It never seems like the right time to dig out the cooler bag and towels and tackle this seemingly massive project. In reality, the whole thing takes a couple of hours—and then the appliance is back in top shape: the fridge runs more smoothly, the freezer can hold more than just ice, and it uses less electricity. Defrosting once a year is usually enough to keep the appliances in a student apartment in good working order.
In short: defrosting the refrigerator and freezer in a student apartment
- Defrost regularly. It is usually sufficient to defrost the freezer once a year; defrost the refrigerator as needed.
- A little effort, a big payoff. Unplug the appliance, protect the floor, let the ice melt naturally, and dry the area thoroughly.
- Avoid sharp objects. Chipping away at the ice can damage the machine, so patience is the most important tool for this job as well.
- You’ll save electricity and extend the appliance’s lifespan. A layer of ice increases energy consumption and puts unnecessary strain on the appliance.
- This is one of the tenant’s basic responsibilities. In a rental apartment, defrosting the refrigerator and freezer is typically the tenant’s responsibility.
When should I defrost the refrigerator and freezer?
You should defrost your refrigerator if more frost than usual builds up on the back wall or if water appears at the bottom of the appliance. Most modern refrigerators have an automatic defrosting system, but a clogged drain, for example, can cause problems that require attention.
It’s time to defrost the freezer when a distinct layer of ice forms on the interior surfaces. Even a frost layer of about 5–10 mm impairs the circulation of cold air. A layer of ice about half a centimeter thick is a sign that it’s time to defrost. A thick layer of ice forces the appliance to work harder to stay cold. This unnecessarily increases electricity consumption.
How to defrost a refrigerator, step by step
Defrosting is easiest when the freezer isn’t packed to the brim. Eat the ice cream and stir-fry vegetables ahead of time, or transfer them to a cooler for a while—in the winter, the balcony can serve as a freezer for a short time. Place a couple of towels on the floor in front of the refrigerator to catch any melt water.
- Turn off the power. And empty the contents of the cabinets.
- Open the door and let the ice melt naturally. You can speed up the process by placing a bowl of hot (not boiling) water inside.
- Let the ice come off on its own. If necessary, use a plastic scraper, but never use metal objects.
- Remove the shelves and drawers and wash them.
- Wash and dry the surfaces thoroughly. While you’re at it, clean the gaskets and check the drain hole. Use a mild detergent. A few drops of dish soap in warm water will suffice. A detergent that is too strong can damage the refrigerator’s plastic surfaces.
- Do not turn the power back on until the appliance is completely dry. Let it cool down before putting food back inside.
Chopping at the ice with a knife or screwdriver can damage the refrigerant line and render the appliance inoperable.
Watch the instructional video on how to clean the refrigerator’s drain hole
How long does it take to defrost?
Defrosting the refrigerator is the quicker of the two. A light layer of frost on the back wall usually melts in 1–2 hours.
Defrosting a freezer takes longer. If a significant amount of ice has built up, it can take 3–6 hours to defrost, and sometimes even longer. A thick layer of ice needs time to thaw safely. Placing a bowl of hot water inside the freezer speeds up the process, but the most important thing is to let the ice thaw slowly.
Common mistakes when defrosting refrigeration equipment
Although defrosting the refrigerator and freezer may seem like simple tasks on paper, certain mistakes are all too common and can end up being costly:
- Chopping at the ice with a knife or screwdriver can damage the refrigerant line and render the appliance inoperable.
- Using a hair dryer or heat gun can melt plastic parts and damage seals.
- Starting the machine before drying speeds up the formation of new ice.
- Setting the defrost interval too long increases energy consumption and puts a strain on the compressor.
Defrosting saves electricity and keeps the appliance in good condition
When ice builds up in the freezer, the appliance has to work harder to stay cold. The more ice there is, the more electricity is wasted. Defrosting your freezer regularly is an easy way to save electricity in your daily life.
At the same time, you’ll extend the appliance’s lifespan. When you defrost your refrigerator and freezer regularly, the appliance runs more smoothly and isn’t put under unnecessary strain. A little maintenance every now and then helps keep your refrigerator and freezer in good working order. Neglecting to maintain the appliance can also lead to water damage.
“The most common cause of water damage billed to residents is a refrigerator that has been defrosted incorrectly,” says property assistant Tytti.
The three most common reasons residents are billed for water damage at Hoas in 2024 and 2025
- Improper defrosting of the freezer
- The refrigerator’s defrost drain is clogged and water is leaking onto the floor
- The freezer door won’t close, and water is melting onto the floor
Who is responsible for defrosting the refrigerator in a rental apartment?
In a rental apartment, the tenant is usually responsible for maintaining the refrigerator and freezer. In practice, this means keeping the appliances clean, defrosting them, and using them with care.
If the equipment breaks due to obvious misuse—such as chipping away at ice—the repair costs will be the tenant’s responsibility. That’s why it’s best to take your time and use the proper methods.
The most common cause of water damage for which residents are billed is a refrigeration unit that has been defrosted incorrectly.
Moving? Turn off the fridge and leave the door open – the next tenant will thank you
If you’re moving out, unplug the refrigerator, clean it thoroughly, and leave the door slightly open. Leaving the door open prevents moisture from building up and air from becoming stagnant inside the appliance.
If the door is closed tightly, a musty odor or even mold may develop inside. Leaving the door slightly ajar ensures that the unit stays clean for the next tenant.