GE Appliances Odor Contamination / Drain or Airflow Issue

Refrigerator has a strong, unpleasant odor that does not go away after cleaning.

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Possible Causes

Spilled food in hidden areas, Contaminated drain pan, Mold in defrost drain, Poor air circulation

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before removing panels or cleaning the drain pan.

  • Deep clean interior: Remove all food and shelves. Clean walls, shelves, and gaskets with a baking soda and water solution.
  • Clean drain pan: Access the drain pan from the rear bottom. Remove and wash with hot soapy water if possible.
  • Flush defrost drain: From inside the freezer, flush the drain with a mild bleach solution followed by clean water to remove mold and bacteria.
  • Use odor absorbers: Place open boxes of baking soda or activated charcoal in both compartments.
  • Check for trapped spills: Inspect under drawers and in door bins for hidden spills.
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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5
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