If you are noticing ice in your refrigerator, particularly in the form of water coming down from the freezer, it is likely due to a common issue called a clogged defrost drain. Here's how this problem can occur and what you can do to address it:
Clogged Defrost Drain: Modern refrigerators have a defrost system that prevents the buildup of frost and ice on the evaporator coils in the freezer. During the defrost cycle, the frost on the coils melts into water. This water is supposed to flow down through a small drain located at the back of the freezer and into a pan at the bottom of the refrigerator, where it evaporates.
Blockage Formation: Over time, small particles of food, debris, or ice can accumulate in the defrost drain and create a blockage. When this happens, the water from the defrost cycle cannot drain properly and may end up freezing in the drain or the drain line.
Consequences: As the water freezes, it can create ice buildup in the freezer or along the back wall of the refrigerator. You may notice water dripping or pooling under the crisper drawers or on the shelves.
Solution: To fix this issue, you can follow these steps:
a. Unplug the refrigerator: Ensure safety by disconnecting the power supply to the refrigerator.
b. Locate the defrost drain: In most refrigerators, the defrost drain is situated at the back of the freezer, often behind a panel. It might be covered by ice or debris.
c. Clear the drain: Gently remove any visible ice or debris from the defrost drain. You can use a turkey baster, warm water, or a pipe cleaner to help dislodge any clogs.
d. Flush the drain: Pour a mixture of warm water and mild soap down the drain to flush out any remaining debris or ice.
e. Check the drain line: Ensure that the drain line, which leads from the freezer to the evaporation pan at the bottom of the refrigerator, is clear and unobstructed.
f. Reassemble and plug in the refrigerator: Put everything back in place, reconnect the power supply, and wait for the refrigerator to cool down again.
If the problem persists even after attempting to clear the defrost drain, or if you are uncomfortable performing these steps yourself, it's best to contact a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue. They will have the expertise and tools necessary to resolve the problem safely.