Every refrigerator has a door seal (sometimes called a gasket). This seals the cool air inside the fridge and prevents hot air from entering.
If the seal is damaged, it can cause your refrigerator to work more frequently and use more energy to maintain a consistent temperature. This can increase your electricity bill and shorten the life of your appliance.
Refrigerator door seals should be cleaned and lubricated periodically to keep them functioning properly. Dirty seals make it difficult for the seal to stick well, which can lead to an uneven temperature inside the fridge.
Test a Refrigerator Door Seal for Damage
To find out whether the seal on your refrigerator is damaged, perform a simple visual inspection around all of its edges. Try to find any spots where the seal is not fully flush against both the fridge door and the main cabinet frame.
You can also try putting a piece of paper between the door and fridge, closing the door and then pulling it out. If the paper slides out easily, it's likely that the seal is weak or damaged, and it should be replaced.
Replacing a Refrigerator Door Seal
The process of replacing a refrigerator door seal can be easy if you know what you're doing. First, you need to order a new seal that matches your model and manufacturer. You can purchase a replacement gasket from your local appliance store or online. Once you have the new seal, follow the installation instructions on the package.