How to Replace a Refrigerator Door Gasket

If the gasket on your refrigerator door is damaged, it needs to be replaced. Otherwise, cold air will escape, forcing the refrigerator to work harder to maintain the correct temperature and reducing its efficiency.

As a result, the refrigerator may struggle to keep the proper temperature, becoming too warm and causing food to spoil faster. A faulty door gasket can also lead to higher utility bills and excessive wear on components, potentially shortening the appliance’s lifespan.

If you need to replace the door gasket on your refrigerator, this guide will show you how. We’ll take you through the process step by step with easy-to-follow instructions. Most people should be able to complete this task on their own relatively easily. There’s no need to hire a professional!

Replacing the door gasket on your refrigerator

Follow these steps to replace the door gasket on your refrigerator.

Step 1: Order a replacement

The first step before removing the old gasket is to order a compatible replacement for your refrigerator’s brand and model. To do this, search online for your refrigerator’s brand and model number followed by the word “gasket.”

You should find it available for purchase on the manufacturer’s website as well as on Amazon, eBay, or appliance parts retailer websites. It might also be available at local appliance stores, and if they don’t have it in stock, they can likely order it for you.

When you receive the replacement gasket, take it out of its packaging and check that it’s the correct size by comparing it to the old gasket before moving on to the next step.

Step 2: Remove the old gasket

Depending on the model, your refrigerator will have either a push-in, screw-in, or glued-in gasket. This means the removal process varies slightly depending on which type you have:

• Push-in: These gaskets are the easiest to remove. Simply open the door and carefully pull off the old gasket, starting from the top right corner.
• Screw-in: Locate the screws beneath the gasket’s edge. Use a screwdriver or hex head nut driver to loosen them without fully removing them. Once loosened, start at one corner and carefully pull the old gasket out from behind the door liner.
• Glued-in: These gaskets are a bit trickier to remove. Start at the top corner and insert a putty knife between the gasket and the door to break the adhesive bond. Then slowly work the knife around the entire perimeter. After that, you can simply pull off the old gasket.

Step 3: Clean the area

Now that the old gasket is removed, you’ll want to clean the area to remove any dirt, grime, or residue to ensure it’s ready for the new gasket to be installed.

To do this, use a damp sponge, cloth, or brush with mild soap to clean the channel or groove where a push-in gasket sits or around and behind the door liner if you have a screw-in or glued-in gasket.

Step 4: Install the new gasket

If you have a push-in gasket, you can install the replacement by carefully pressing it into the groove where the old one sat. Begin in the top corner and slowly work your way around the rest of the door until it’s fully installed.

For screw-in and glued-in gaskets, you need to tuck them behind the door liner. If it’s tight, you can use a putty knife to gently pry the door liner open slightly to make installation easier. Again, it’s best to start in one corner and gradually work your way around the door.

If the original gasket was glued in, you don’t typically need to glue in the replacement, unless the instructions specifically state to do so. However, for screw-in gaskets, you will need to tighten the screws back up after installing.

Step 5: Check that the seal is good

After installing the new gasket, it’s a good idea to inspect it again to ensure all sections are properly fitted and that there are no loose areas. You can also open and close the door to check that it’s shutting completely.

Finally, you can check for gaps in the seal and ensure it’s airtight by placing a flashlight inside the refrigerator and turning off the kitchen lights. Any light visible around the door indicates a gap in the seal, meaning the gasket might not be correctly installed.

How to maintain the door gasket

Since you’ve just installed a new gasket, it’s worth taking care of it to ensure it lasts as long as possible.

You can do this by regularly cleaning it. Every month or so, wipe down the gasket with a damp, soapy sponge or cloth. Be sure to clean inside all of the folds where dirt and mold can build up. After cleaning, dry it thoroughly with a clean, dry towel or cloth to prevent mold and mildew growth.

Avoid using harsh chemical cleaners on the gasket; dish soap will usually suffice. If you experience mold or mildew growth, you can use an old toothbrush to scrub it away with a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 1 part water.

Signs that a refrigerator door gasket needs replacing

A refrigerator door gasket typically lasts over 5 years, so if you’ve just installed a new one, you shouldn’t have any issues for a long time. However, some common signs to look out for that indicate a faulty gasket include:

• The gasket is cracked, torn, or worn out.
• The gasket is loose, stretched, compressed, or misshapen.
• There are visible gaps in the seal.
• The refrigerator is no longer cooling properly.
• Excessive condensation appears inside the refrigerator.
• The refrigerator door is no longer closing properly.

Summary

Replacing a faulty refrigerator door gasket is a relatively simple task that most people can complete themselves. Replacement parts are readily available online and in some appliance stores at a relatively low cost. If you don’t have the time or prefer not to do it yourself, contact a local appliance repair person; they’ll be happy to replace it for you.