In technical documentation and among repairmen there is often a term that confuses the average user of household appliances. The phrase “refrigerator tub” sounds strange, but in fact we are talking about a very specific and important element of the moisture removal system. Many owners of units do not even suspect the existence of this part until they encounter a puddle on the floor or an unpleasant odor from inside the chamber.
This colloquial name usually hides evaporation tanklocated in the lower part of the refrigerator. This is where the condensate formed during the operation of the No Frost or drip defrosting system flows. Understanding the structure of this unit helps to quickly diagnose many malfunctions associated with high humidity.
In this article we will look in detail where to look for this element, how to properly maintain it and what to do if the system fails. Knowledge of the design your refrigerator will avoid an expensive call to a technician to solve basic maintenance problems equipment.
Design features of the moisture removal system
Modern refrigerators, regardless of the brand, be it Indesit, Atlant or Liebherr, are equipped with a system for collecting excess moisture. The water that appears on the walls of the chamber during cooling of products should not stagnate inside. For this purpose, a special drainage hole is provided in the rear wall.
Through this channel, the liquid flows by gravity into the so-called “tub”. In a professional environment, this part is also called compressor tray or evaporation container. It is fixed directly above the motor-compressor, which is the main source of heat in the lower part of the unit.
The operating principle of this system is ingeniously simple and effective. The heat generated by the running compressor heats the bottom of the pan. Water that gets into the container begins to actively evaporate into the environment. Thus, the cycle is closed: moisture is removed from the chamber and returned to the atmosphere, without requiring manual draining.
However, if the system does not work correctly, water may overflow over the edges or may not have time to evaporate. This often leads to corrosion of the metal parts of the case and the appearance of mold. It is important to monitor the condition of the drainage channel so that it is not clogged with food debris or ice.
Where the tray is located and how to get to it
Finding the place where the “tub” is located usually does not require disassembling the inside of the refrigerator compartment. As already mentioned, this element is located in the lower technical area aggregate. To see it, you need to move the refrigerator away from the wall and gain access to the rear panel.
In some models, for example, the brand Beko or Samsung, access to the compressor and tray may be closed with a decorative cover or cardboard. They must be carefully removed. Be careful not to damage the condenser tubes, which often pass in close proximity.
Visually, the tub is a black plastic or metal tray installed on top of the compressor. It can be secured with latches or simply lie on special guides. Depending on the design, access may be limited by proximity to a wall or floor covering.
- 🔍 Rear wall: Remove the protective panel, if equipped, to gain access to the engine compartment.
- 🔍 Above the compressor: Look for a container located directly above the black round or pear-shaped cylinder engine.
- 🔍 Fixation: Check how the tray is attached - some models require snapping of plastic holders.
⚠️ Attention: Before any manipulations with the back of the refrigerator, be sure to disconnect the device from the power supply. Working with live electrical appliances is life-threatening.
If you cannot find the drain pan, refer to the instruction manual for your model. There may be a diagram of the engine compartment arrangement. Sometimes manufacturers hide this area deeper, requiring the removal of the lower decorative strip at the front of the refrigerator, although this is less common.
Causes of overflow and leaks on the floor
One of the most common problems that users encounter is the appearance of water on the floor in front of the refrigerator. This is a direct signal that the “tub” is overfilled or water is not getting into it. There are several main reasons for this situation, and they need to be distinguished for proper repair.
The first and most common reason is clogging of the drainage hole. Crumbs, pieces of food, or mucus may clog the channel that drains water from the chamber. As a result, liquid accumulates at the bottom of the refrigerator and flows out through the door seal, bypassing the pan.
The second reason lies in the malfunction of the evaporation system itself. If the compressor operates in a gentle mode or the defrost heating element is faulty (in No Frost systems), the water in the pan does not have time to evaporate. It accumulates, the level rises, and during the next defrosting cycle, excess moisture overflows.
The third reason is mechanical damage or displacement of the pallet itself. During transportation or careless cleaning behind the refrigerator, the container may have shifted, and water is now dripping past it. Also, the plastic could crack due to time or temperature changes.
The fourth reason is typical for the winter period. If the refrigerator is placed on an unheated balcony or in a cold room, the water in the drainage tube may freeze, forming an ice plug. This blocks the drainage, and water begins to accumulate inside.
Instructions: how to clean the drainage hole and pan
Regular maintenance of the moisture drainage system is the key to long service life of the refrigerator. Cleaning does not require special tools, but requires care. First, you need to empty the fridge compartment of food and completely defrost the unit if we are talking about a drip system.
To clean the drainage hole inside the chamber, use a soft brush or a special flexible wire. Do not use sharp metal objects to avoid puncturing the canal walls. A good effect is obtained by washing with warm water using a medical bulb or a syringe without a needle.
Sequence of actions:1. Disconnect the refrigerator from the network.
2. Empty the chamber of products.
3. Find the drainage hole on the back wall.
4. Carefully clean the channel with a brush.
5. Rinse with warm water (you can add soda).
6. Check the drain by pouring out a small amount of water.
After cleaning the internal channel, it is necessary to check the “tub” itself from the outside. Remove the back panel and reach the tray above the compressor. If dirt or silt has accumulated in it, it must be removed, washed with detergent and dried thoroughly before reinstalling.
☑️ Checklist for cleaning the moisture removal system
It is also important to check the integrity of the tube connecting the chamber and the pan. It could come off or crack. If the tube is removable, remove it and rinse it under running water. Make sure that it fits tightly on the fitting.
Table: Comparison of moisture removal systems in different types of refrigerators
Different types of refrigeration units have their own characteristics in organizing condensate collection. Understanding these differences will help you quickly find the cause of the problem. Below is a comparative description of the systems.
| System type | Drain location | Service frequency | Risk of freezing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drip (Direct Cool) | Rear wall of the chamber | Once in 6-12 months | High at low temperatures |
| No Frost (Ventilation) | Hidden gutter behind the panel | Once every 1-2 years | Average (depending on the heating element) |
| Full No Frost | Common channel for cameras | Once every 2 years | Low |
| Combined | Separately for each zone | Once a year | Average |
As can be seen from the table, refrigerators with the system No Frost require less frequent intervention, since there water is discharged into the pan only during automatic defrosting cycles of the evaporator. In drip systems, water drips constantly while the compressor is running, so the risk of clogging is higher.
Owners of older models should pay more attention to the condition of the rubber seals of the drainage pipes. Over time, the rubber dries out and cracks, which leads to leaks directly in the engine compartment, bypassing the pan.
Unpleasant odor: causes and methods of elimination
If a musty smell begins to be heard from the refrigerator or from behind it, this is a sure sign that bacteria have grown in the moisture removal system. The “tub” above the compressor is an ideal place for the proliferation of microorganisms, especially if there is warm water there and organic matter gets in.
To eliminate the smell, it is not enough to simply wipe the floor. It is necessary to carry out disinfection the entire system. Use safe antiseptics such as chlorhexidine solution, hydrogen peroxide, or special household cleaners. Use chlorine-containing substances with caution so as not to damage the plastic.
Why can the smell return?
The smell returns if the root cause - the source of pollution - is not eliminated. Bacteria are often hidden in the bends of the drainage tube or in porous deposits at the bottom of the tray that were not washed off the first time. Thorough mechanical cleaning and treatment with an antibacterial composition are required.
The method of washing the drainage with a solution of soda or citric acid has proven itself well. This not only kills bacteria, but also dissolves fat deposits, which often cause water stagnation. After treatment, be sure to rinse the system with clean water.
If the odor comes directly from the engine compartment, check to see if water has come into contact with the insulation or other materials. Wet insulation takes a very long time to dry and can become a source of a persistent musty odor. In this case, it may be necessary to replace the heat-insulating material.
⚠️ Attention: Do not use aggressive chemicals to clean the inside of the refrigerator without first studying the instructions. Some reagents can destroy plastic or damage rubber seals.
What to do if the tray is cracked or lost
The plastic from which evaporation tanks are made becomes brittle over time. Temperature changes or mechanical stress during cleaning may cause the bowl to crack. You cannot operate a refrigerator with a damaged tray, as water will pour directly onto the compressor and the floor.
You can find an original spare part by the model number of your refrigerator. However, if you wait a long time for delivery or the part is discontinued, you can use alternative solutions. Some craftsmen use universal pallets, adjusting them to size.
Repairing the crack can be a temporary solution. Epoxy glue or special welding for plastic is suitable for this. It is important that the material is heat-resistant and moisture-resistant, since the operating conditions in the compressor area are quite harsh.
- 🛠 Search for an analogue: Measure the dimensions of the old pallet and look for a universal model in spare parts stores.
- 🛠 Repair: Seal the crack with waterproof sealant or epoxy, having previously degreased the surface.
- 🛠 Replacement: As a last resort, you can make a new container from food-grade plastic or metal, observing the dimensions.
If you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to replace the entire part. The cost of a plastic container is usually low, and the risks associated with water getting into the electrical parts of the motor are too high. When installing a new pan, make sure that it is level and the water flows exactly to the center.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to remove the pan completely and wipe off the water manually?
It is strictly not recommended. The evaporation system is designed to operate automatically. If water remains in the pan, it will bloom, smell, and high humidity will accelerate corrosion of the compressor and other metal parts. In addition, the water may overflow during the next defrosting.
Why does the water in the tray not evaporate?
The main reasons: a malfunction of the compressor (it does not heat up), the temperature in the room where the refrigerator is located is too low, or an excessive amount of moisture (for example, if you put a hot pan in the chamber). It is also possible that the pan is too large for a given compressor (if it has been changed).
How often do you need to clean the “tub” and drainage?
It is recommended to carry out preventive cleaning of the drainage hole inside the chamber once every six months. It’s worth getting to the pan above the compressor and checking its condition once every 1-2 years, or when smells and leaks appear.
Is it possible to use a hair dryer to defrost ice in the drain?
You can use a hair dryer, but with caution. Do not direct the hot air stream at one point of the plastic for a long time, so as not to deform it. It is better to use warm water or special defrosters.
What to do if the pan makes loud noises during operation?
Noise can occur due to vibration, if the pan is poorly secured, or due to drops of water hitting a hot compressor (hissing). Check that the tray is securely fastened and make sure that water drips into the center of the container, and not onto the edge or motor.