How to Fix a Refrigerator Door Seal

A broken door seal on your refrigerator can lead to many problems, including increased energy consumption and spoiled food. Some signs that your door seal may be broken include condensation on the inside of the fridge, a higher than normal electric bill, and a noticeable gap between the door and the frame. If you suspect your seal is damaged, it’s important to act quickly to replace it. Not only will this save you money in the long run, but it will also ensure that your food stays fresh and safe for consumption. 

How to fix a refrigerator door seal

You’ll be happy to know that fixing a refrigerator door seal is a relatively simple and inexpensive task that can be done in no time. You can take  a number of steps if you notice that your refrigerator door seal isn’t adhering to the door properly. These include re-adhering the door seal if it’s started to peel off and cleaning the door seal to insure that debris isn’t obstructing its closure. If you find significant tears or other damage to your door seal, you can consider either repairing the door seal using a silicone sealant or replacing the door seal entirely. Here, we’ll consider all of these options so that you can get your refrigerator running in no time.  

Re-adhere the door seal 

One of the easiest fixes is to reattach the door seal if it’s started to peel off. First, inspect your door seal. If it’s structurally intact but not adhering properly in some sections, you can easily fix it using silicone grease or petroleum jelly. All you need to do is apply some of the product onto a cotton swab and insert it into the groove underneath the loose rubber. This will allow for an effortless push back into place and effectively eliminate any leaks that may have been occurring. 

Clean the door seal

If you’ve inspected your door seal and found no visible damage, then it may just need a good clean in order to adhere and work properly. A dirty door seal can compromise the seal’s effectiveness and lead to leaks, frost buildup, and increased energy consumption. To clean your door seal, start by wiping it down with a damp cloth or sponge. Use a mild detergent or a solution of vinegar and water to remove any buildup or residue. Be sure to clean the entire surface of the seal, including the corners and edges. After cleaning, dry the seal thoroughly with a clean towel, and see if this solves the issue. 

Repair the door seal

If none of the above options have solved the issue and you’ve found visible tears on your door seal, you can fix the seal using waxed paper and silicone sealant. Start by cleaning the damaged area thoroughly, removing any dirt or mold buildup that may have accumulated over time. Then apply an even layer of silicone sealant into the gaps in the tear so that it seals properly.

Next comes the crucial step: covering up this newly applied silicone with 2-inch strips of waxed paper. This ensures proper adhesion between both surfaces while preventing messes during application since excess adhesive won’t stick to other areas. Trimming the edges of the waxed paper is important too because the paper needs to fold to conform to the shape of the seal once the door is shut again. Finally, let everything dry overnight before testing the seal. If your door seal still isn’t working properly, it may be time to replace it. 

Replace the door seal 

Oftentimes, it can be easiest to replace the door seal entirely if you find any tears or cracks, especially if they are significant. First, remove everything from the refrigerator and keep it in a cool place so that your food doesn’t spoil. 

Next, remove the old seal by pulling it out of its track and wiping the tracks until no debris remains. Next, apply the new seal in its place. It’s important that the correct door seal be used. Although  some universal door seals are available for purchase, it’s best to check the manufacturer’s guide for the correct seal for your refrigerator model.

The door seal may need to be laid flat for 24 hours if it’s come folded. This will flatten out any kinks. If you want to speed this process up, you can use a hair dryer on warm to blow the door seal to loosen the bends. When fitting the new door seal, make sure to press firmly on the seal to ensure a tight fit. If the seal is in good condition but still not sealing properly, try cleaning it with warm soapy water and then drying it thoroughly. If that doesn’t work, try applying a small amount of petroleum jelly to the seal to help it adhere better. 

Caring for your refrigerator’s door seals

Caring for your refrigerator’s door seals can help prolong the life of your appliance and save you money on energy bills. The first step in caring for your door seals is to regularly clean them with a mild soap and water solution. This will remove any dirt or debris that may have accumulated on the seals. You should also inspect the seals for any signs of damage, such as cracks or tears. If you notice any damage, it’s important to fix the seals as soon as possible to prevent air leaks. In addition to cleaning and inspecting the seals, you should also make sure that the door is properly aligned and closes tightly. If the door isn’t aligned, it can cause the seals to wear out faster and lead to energy loss. Taking these simple steps to care for your refrigerator’s door seals can help keep your appliance running efficiently and save you money in the long run.