Broken Refrigerator Door Seal? How To Fix It

A broken refrigerator door seal can cause a range of issues, from inefficient cooling to higher energy consumption. If your refrigerator isn’t keeping your food as cold as it should be or you’re noticing increased condensation, it may be time to fix your door seal. 

Don’t worry — you don’t need to spend a fortune on a costly repair or a new fridge. With a few simple steps, you can fix your broken refrigerator door seal all by yourself. In this article we’ll show you how to identify a broken door seal, replace it, and get your fridge working like new again.

What are some signs of a broken refrigerator door seal?

Here are some signs that your refrigerator door seal may be broken:

• The fridge is not cooling properly: If you notice your fridge doesn’t feel as cold as it should or your food is spoiling quicker than expected, it may have a broken seal. 
• Condensation inside the fridge: If you notice excess moisture or condensation inside your fridge, this could be a sign that the door seal is not functioning properly.
• Frost buildup in the freezer: If you have a frost-free refrigerator but are still experiencing frost buildup in the freezer, this could be a sign that the door seal is not sealing properly.
• Higher electricity bills: A broken door seal can cause your fridge to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to increased energy consumption and higher electricity bills.
• Visible wear and tear: If you notice any visible cracks, tears, or gaps in the door seal, these a clear signs that it needs to be replaced.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to address the issue as soon as possible to prevent any further damage to your fridge and to ensure it is operating efficiently.

How to test if your refrigerator door seal is broken

Testing whether a refrigerator door seal is broken or not is a fairly simple process. Here are the steps to follow:

• Close the refrigerator door: Ensure that the door is closed properly and check that there are no obstructions that prevent the door from closing all the way.
• Place a piece of paper in the door: Insert a piece of paper into the door and close it on the paper, ensuring that the paper is held firmly in place.
• Try to pull out the paper: Gently pull on the paper to see if it slides out easily or if there is resistance. If the paper slides out easily, it’s an indication that the door seal is not functioning properly.
• Repeat the test: Test the seal all around the door by placing the paper at different locations and pulling on it to see if it comes out easily.
• Inspect the seal: Check the door seal for any cracks, tears, or other visible signs of damage.

If the paper slides out easily, or you notice visible damage to the seal, it’s likely that the seal is broken and needs to be replaced. This simple test can help you identify whether your refrigerator door seal is working correctly or not, so you can take appropriate steps to fix it and ensure that your fridge is operating efficiently.

How to fix your broken refrigerator door seal

It may sound daunting, but replacing a refrigerator door seal is actually a very easy DIY task to accomplish, even for beginner DIYers! Follow these instructions:

• Order a replacement seal: First, you need to order a replacement door seal that is compatible with your refrigerator model.
• Remove the old seal: Gently pull the old door seal off from the refrigerator door, being careful not to damage the door. Clean any adhesive residue from the door using a mild detergent and a soft cloth.
• Prepare the new seal: Place the new seal in warm water for a few minutes to make it more pliable and easier to install.
• Install the new seal: Align the new seal on the door, starting at one corner and working your way around the door. Press the seal firmly into place, making sure it is evenly aligned and straight.
• Check the seal: Close the refrigerator door and perform the paper test described in the previous question to check that the new seal is properly installed and functioning correctly.
• Adjust the door hinges: If the door still doesn’t seal properly, you may need to adjust the door hinges to ensure a tight fit.

Replacing a broken refrigerator door seal can be a simple DIY task that can save you money on energy bills and prevent food spoilage. By following these steps, you can fix a broken refrigerator door seal and get your fridge running like new again.
Note: If you have replaced the door seal and are still having issues with your refrigerator not cooling correctly, there may be other issues with your fridge. Common causes include a faulty thermostat, blocked vents, dirty condenser coils or a broken fan. You may wish to investigate these options if your fridge is still having problems.