How to Replace the Gasket Seal on a Refrigerator Door

A refrigerator with a leaking door seal consumes more energy, leading to higher electricity bills. Additionally, this continuous operation shortens the appliance's lifespan. Another risk is food spoilage due to fluctuating temperatures. Replacing the door seal is necessary but not overly difficult.

Understand what the door seal is. Every refrigerator has a gasket made of molded rubber on the door.

• The purpose of the seal is to keep cold air inside and prevent warm air from entering the fridge. Essentially, it ensures that the cool air remains sealed inside while blocking outside air from getting in.
• The seal is crucial because if it wears out or is of poor quality, cold air escapes, and warm air leaks in. This results in higher temperatures inside the fridge, causing food spoilage. You’ll also end up paying more for electricity since the cold air is lost.

Determine if your refrigerator door seal needs replacing. If there’s a gap between the door seal and the refrigerator, it indicates that the fridge isn't properly sealed.

• To check if the seal is problematic, observe whether the fridge is running more often, or if it seems to be losing cold air. You can also check the seal for condensation or black mold. If you notice any of these signs, it may be time to replace the seal, as the cold air is causing moisture to form from the warm air. If the seal appears cracked or thinner, it’s time to get a new one.
• You can also test the seal using a 10,000 VND note. Place the bill between the fridge door and the seal, then close the door on it. Try pulling the bill out. If it pulls easily, the seal is still good. If it slides out quickly or you notice condensation, it’s time to replace the seal.
• You need to either fix the gap in the current seal or replace it entirely. Replacing a faulty seal can save you money by reducing energy consumption. New seals are fairly inexpensive, costing around 1-1.5 million VND, and the replacement takes about 30 minutes. With a new seal, your energy consumption will drop, and you'll quickly recoup your costs.

Consider repairing the seal if possible. Close the fridge door and check the gap. How wide is it and where is it located?

• To fix a small gap, apply kerosene wax to the seal. Gently pull the seal away from the door groove to expose about 5 centimeters at the corner of the door. Cut a thin strip of rubber and insert it into the door groove.
• Then, place the seal back into the groove. Repeat the process of adding rubber strips to other corners if needed.
• Close the fridge door and inspect the gap again. If you still see a gap, it's time to replace the seal.

Learn how to buy the correct seal. This depends on your fridge’s type, model, and classification information.

• Check the user manual. If you can’t find it, look up your product online for details.
• Visit an appliance store or the manufacturer's service center and inform them of your fridge’s model. The store staff can help you find the right seal. Measure the size of the seal and the door to ensure you get the correct fit.
• You can also research the seal on the manufacturer’s website. Remember, if the guide rail beneath the seal is cracked, you’ll need to buy a new guide rail along with the seal.

Prepare the new seal while removing the old one. It’s best to soak the new seal in warm water for a while before installing it. Before removing the old seal, disconnect the fridge from the power supply.

• This will make it easier to install the new seal. If your fridge is uneven, consider propping it up to maintain balance before you start. Some people even remove the fridge door to install the seal, but this isn’t necessary.
• You don’t need many tools, but you’ll need a hex screwdriver. This tool is available at most hardware stores. If you’re unsure what it is, just tell the salesperson your purpose. You should turn the screwdriver counterclockwise.

Remove the old seal. Grasp the bottom section of the seal on the inside and pull it back. You should be able to see the metal rim that holds the seal in place.

Loosen the screws without removing them that hold the metal rim around the door. Use a hex screwdriver for this task. Lift the edge of the seal to expose the screws underneath, which hold the plastic rim and seal. Typically, the screws secure the plastic rim, and the rim holds the seal firmly in place on the door.

Pull the seal off the door after loosening the screws. Once the screws are loosened, the seal should easily slide out from under the plastic rim. Be careful not to pull too hard, as some plastic rims are fragile and can break if handled too roughly.

Install the new seal. Position one corner of the new seal at the top corner of the refrigerator door. Push the edge of the seal into the metal rim and slide it under the rim until the entire seal is in place. It’s best to start at the corners and work your way around the perimeter of the door.

Use a hex screwdriver to tighten the screws on the metal rim, but avoid over-tightening them. Tighten the screws just enough to secure the seal in place.

Sprinkle some powder. Use a small amount of baby powder or talcum powder to prevent the rubber from sticking.

Sprinkle some powder around the corners of the seal near the door hinge. The powder will help prevent the seal from twisting when it makes contact with the fridge's metal surface.

Close the fridge door and open it several times to check the seal. Look for any areas of distortion on the seal. Repeat this process multiple times if necessary.

Apply kerosene wax along the door edge near the hinge if you notice any gaps. Once the gasket has sealed properly, tighten the screws further. Alternatively, you can use a hairdryer to heat the gasket, helping to remedy the gap. The heat softens the gasket, allowing you to stretch it out.

• The refrigerator gasket may vary slightly, so it's essential to check the included instructions and the refrigerator's manual if available.
• Soak the new gasket in warm water to soften it, making it easier to handle.
• Always read safety guidelines when working with household appliances. Use appropriate protective equipment. If you're unsure about repairing the refrigerator yourself, consider hiring a professional technician.

• Appropriate screwdriver
• New gasket
• Baby powder or talcum powder, and kerosene wax
• Flashlight