When faced with a puddle of water on the kitchen floor or noticing an unpleasant odor coming from under household appliances, many owners immediately begin to panic. The first thing that arises is the question of a serious breakdown of the cooling system or a freon leak, which promises expensive repairs. However, in the vast majority of cases, the problem is much simpler and concerns the condensate drainage system, the key element of which is the evaporation tank. Understanding where this plastic tray is located allows you to quickly eliminate the cause of dampness and prevent damage to the floor covering. In modern models of refrigeration units, be it evaporation tank.
Understanding where this plastic tray is located allows you to quickly eliminate the cause of dampness and prevent damage to the floor covering. In modern models of refrigeration units, be it Indesit, Bosch or LG, the design may differ significantly, but the general principle of moisture collection remains the same for all No Frost and drip defrosting systems. In the vast majority of models, the evaporation tray is located in the lower part of the housing, directly above the compressor, and is hidden by a decorative panel or grille.
Further maintenance of the equipment requires care and knowledge of the sequence of actions so as not to damage the fragile plastic latches or break the tightness of the connections. In this article, we will analyze in detail the algorithm for searching for a container, methods for removing and cleaning it, and also answer common questions that arise during operation.
Design features of the tray location
To understand where exactly to look, you need to understand the physics of the process. Moisture that forms on the walls of the chamber or as a result of melting ice in the No Frost system flows down the gutter into the drainage hole. From there, it passes through the tube into a container, where, under the influence of heat from a running motor-compressor, it gradually evaporates. That is why location of the tray always tied to the heating zone.
In classic two-chamber refrigerators, the tray is most often located in a niche above the motor, access to which is blocked by the rear wall or a special cover at the bottom of the unit. In some models, for example, brand Atlant or old Soviet refrigerators, the container can be moved forward and covered with a decorative shield, which can be easily removed without tools. However, in modern narrow-profile models, designers often hide this unit as deeply as possible in order to improve the aesthetic appearance.
It is important to consider that in refrigerators with a system No Frost the tray can be combined with a tray for collecting water when defrosting the evaporator, which is located inside the case, but is discharged outside through the drainage handset. If you are looking for where the refrigerator's tray is and don't see it from the front, it means it is accessed from the back.
⚠️ Attention: In some refrigerator models, the tray may be secured with latches, which become fragile over time. Do not use excessive force when trying to remove the protective panel to avoid breaking the fasteners.
Differences in design may depend on the year of manufacture and series of the device. If you are the owner of equipment produced more than 10 years ago, the design may be more massive and cumbersome compared to modern analogues.
Instructions: how to get to the container from the back
The most common location is the rear lower part of the case. To get started, you will need to move the refrigerator away from the wall, providing free access to the back panel. Remember that you cannot jerk the equipment sharply, so as not to damage the floor or legs of the unit.
The first step should always be turn off the power supply. Unplug the power cord to reduce the risk of electric shock as you will be working in close proximity to exposed electrical contacts on the compressor. Let the equipment stand for 10-15 minutes so that the pressure in the refrigerant system equalizes.
Next, you should examine the back wall. Depending on the model Samsung or Stinol, you may need to remove the metal cover covering the engine compartment. It is usually attached to several screws that need to be unscrewed with a Phillips screwdriver. In some cases, the cover is held on by plastic clips and is simply removed by moving upwards or to the side.
☑️ Preparation for rear access
After removing the cover, you will see a compressor (black round tank), a condenser (coil) and, directly above them, a flat plastic container. This is the element you are looking for. If you see water in this tray, this is normal; it should be there after the defrost cycle.
Look around the area. Sometimes the drain tube can come off the edge of the pan, causing water to overflow. Make sure that the end of the tube is strictly inside the perimeter of the container.
Access through the front panel and base
There is a second common option, typical for many built-in models and some free-standing brands, such as Beko or Haier. In this case, the tray is located at the front, below, behind the so-called base or decorative grille.
To access it, it is not necessary to move the refrigerator if there is a gap near the floor, but it is still better to ensure ease of operation. You need to sit down and carefully examine the lower part of the facade. There may be a ventilation grille that is held in place by clips, or a solid panel secured with screws.
If the panel is solid, look for fasteners along the edges or in the corners. After removing them, the panel gently pulls towards itself. Behind it you will see a tray, which is often shaped to follow the contours of the bottom of the refrigerator. In such models removable tray it can be pulled out like a box, or it needs to be removed by hand, holding it by special recesses.
The convenience of this arrangement is that you do not need to climb to the hot engine from behind. However, there is a minus: the water in the front pan evaporates worse, since it is located further from the heat source, and it has to be cleaned more often.
What to do if the panel cannot be removed?
If you do not see the fasteners and the panel does not give in, it may be secured from the bottom. In this case, you will need to carefully tilt the refrigerator (preferably with an assistant) and check the bottom plane for screws.
When working with the front panel, be careful with the plastic guides. They often break if handled carelessly, after which the panel begins to rattle when the compressor operates.
Algorithm for removing and cleaning the tray
Regardless of where the tray is on your refrigerator, the maintenance procedure should be regular. Dirt, dust and mold that accumulate in stagnant water become a source of unpleasant odor, which then enters the food chambers.
To remove the container, you may need to remove the retaining brackets or simply pull it towards you if it is held in place by friction or guides. If the tray is attached to the drainage tube, you must be extremely careful not to tear off the hose.
The cleaning process is as follows:
- 🧽 Wash the container with warm water and a mild detergent, avoiding abrasive powders that can scratch the plastic.
- 🦠 To disinfect, use a weak solution of soda or vinegar to destroy bacteria and mold fungi that have settled at the bottom.
- 🌬️ Dry the tray thoroughly before installing it back, as excess moisture can temporarily increase the humidity in the engine compartment.
In parallel with washing the tray, it is recommended to clean the tray itself drainage tube. To do this, you can use a special brush or syringe with warm water. A blockage in the tube is a common cause of water overflowing over the edge of the pan.
After completing all procedures, return the pan to its place, making sure that it fits evenly and tightly. Check that the drainage tube is inside the perimeter of the tray.
Typical faults and causes of leaks
Even knowing where the pan is located, users often encounter a situation where water still ends up on the floor. This may indicate a number of problems that require attention.
One of the most common problems is the displacement of the drainage tube. Over time, the vibration of a running compressor can loosen the hose, and it simply slides off the edge of the tray. Water begins to drip past, flowing directly onto the floor or onto the thermal insulation.
Another reason is overflow. This happens if evaporation is too slow (for example, the refrigerator is in a very cold room or, conversely, the motor runs intermittently) or if a leak has formed in the tray. Plastic may crack over time due to temperature changes or mechanical stress.
It is also worth mentioning the distortion of the refrigerator. If the unit is not level, water in the pan can accumulate at one of the edges and overflow over the side, even if the capacity of the container is not exceeded.
| Symptom | Probable cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Water on the floor front | The tube has come off or the tray is cracked | Check the connection and integrity of the plastic |
| Unpleasant odor | Water stagnation and bacterial growth | Rinse and disinfect capacity |
| Ice in the tray | Evaporator heating element malfunction | Call a technician to diagnose No Frost |
| Water drips constantly | Clogged drainage hole | Clean the tube with a brush or water |
If you find a crack in the plastic, do not rush to buy a new unit. Often the problem can be solved using epoxy glue or food-grade silicone sealant, having previously degreased the surface.
Prevention and care of the drainage system
Regular maintenance extends the life of the refrigerator. Experts recommend checking the condition of the pan and drainage at least once every six months. This is especially true for families with small children or pets who may accidentally touch the tube or spill something sticky near the unit.
Make sure that the food in the chamber does not cover the back wall, where the drainage hole is usually located. A piece of food caught there can become the center of a plug that will block the flow of water.
⚠️ Attention: Never use sharp metal objects (knives, knitting needles) to clean the drainage hole inside the chamber. You can puncture the tube, and then repairs will cost much more than simple cleaning.
It is also important to monitor the temperature. If you set the temperature in the main chamber too low, the system may not cope with the removal of condensate, and some of the moisture will bypass the standard paths.
Following simple hygiene rules and timely cleaning will allow your refrigerator to operate silently and effectively for many years.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
Is it possible to operate a refrigerator without a tray?
Technically, the refrigerator will work without a tray, since it is not directly involved in the cooling cycle. However, water will drip onto the floor, causing deterioration of the flooring, mold growth and the risk of short circuiting if moisture reaches electrical contacts. Therefore, operation without a container is extremely undesirable.
Why does water freeze in the pan?
In normal mode, the water in the pan should evaporate. If it freezes to form an ice block, this may mean that the refrigerator is in an unheated room (for example, on a balcony) where the temperature drops below zero. This may also be a sign of a malfunction of the defrost system in No Frost models, when too much water gets onto the evaporator.
How to replace the pan if it is cracked?
The ideal option is to order an original spare part for the refrigerator model. If this is not possible, you can make a temporary container from food-grade plastic or use a flat container of a suitable size. The main thing is that the material can withstand the heat from the compressor and is safe for health.
How often should you clean the tray?
The recommended frequency is once every 6-12 months. If you notice the appearance of odor or moisture earlier, the procedure should be carried out unscheduled. In households with pets that like to bask in the presence of a running engine, it is better to clean more often, as wool quickly clogs the drainage.