What Causes Freezers to Need Defrosting?

How Frost Forms

• When you open the freezer door, warm, moist air enters the freezer. Frost and ice develop when moisture in the air come into contact with the cold evaporator coils. If you open your freezer frequently, frost will form faster.

Removing Frost

• Remove food from the freezer and store in insulated ice chests or coolers before turning off the freezer for defrosting. Read the owner's manual to determine the best method of defrosting. Some manufacturers recommend placing a pan of hot water in the freezer and closing it, while others recommend using a fan or thawing frost naturally, according to the National Center for Home Food Preservation. Put towels in the bottom of the freezer to absorb melted frost. After the frost melts, wipe the freezer with a solution of one tablespoon baking soda and a quart of water and dry thoroughly. Let the freezer cool before returning food.

Warning

• Don't try to remove frost buildup with an ice pick, knife, electrical heating device or sharp object. This could damage the inner lining of your freezer, according to the Food Safety and Inspection Service. However, you can use a wooden spoon or plastic scraper to remove frost.

Considerations

• You only have to defrost manual defrost freezers. Frost-free freezers include a heating element next to the evaporator coils, which regularly melts and drains the frost on the evaporator coils. These heating elements may turn on at certain intervals or after the freezer door has been opened a certain number of times. Check your owner's manual if you aren't sure whether your freezer requires defrosting. Even if you don't need to defrost your freezer, you should wipe it out at least once a year to prevent odors.