How to Replace a Refrigerator Door Gasket in 5 Steps

The door gasket (or door seal) is one of the most essential components of your refrigerator. This rubber seal runs around the perimeter of your refrigerator door, creating an airtight barrier when the door is closed. When functioning correctly, it prevents cold air from escaping and warm air from entering, helping your refrigerator operate efficiently.

Over time, refrigerator door gaskets can become worn, torn, or loose, causing your refrigerator to work harder to maintain its temperature. This not only increases your energy bills but can also shorten the lifespan of your fridge.

Replacing a door gasket is a relatively simple DIY task you can work through. This guide will walk you through replacing your refrigerator door gasket in five simple steps.

Signs You Need to Replace Your Refrigerator Door Gasket

Before we dive into the replacement process, here are some key indicators that your refrigerator door gasket needs to be replaced:

• You feel cold air escaping when the door is closed
• The gasket has visible cracks, tears, or deformation
• Mold or mildew is growing on or around the gasket
• The door doesn’t seal properly when closed
• Condensation is forming on the outside of the refrigerator
• Your refrigerator is running more frequently than usual

You can also perform the “dollar bill test” – insert a dollar bill between the gasket and the refrigerator, close the door, and try to pull it out. If it slides out easily, your gasket isn’t creating a proper seal and needs replacement.

How to Replace a Refrigerator Door Gasket in 5 Steps

Step 1: Purchase the correct replacement gasket

Finding the right gasket for your specific refrigerator model is crucial for a successful replacement. To ensure you get the correct part:

• Locate your refrigerator’s model number, typically found on a label inside the refrigerator or on the back of the unit
• Order the correct replacement gasket from the manufacturer’s website, appliance parts retailers online, or local appliance parts stores
• Specify whether you need a freezer door gasket or a refrigerator door gasket, as these are often different sizes

Bringing the old gasket with you when shopping at a physical store can also help ensure you get an exact match.

Step 2: Remove the old gasket

Once you have your replacement gasket, you’ll need to remove the old one. First, unplug the refrigerator for safety, especially if you’ll be working with any metal components. Open the refrigerator or freezer door completely for clear access, then determine how the gasket is attached.

Most gaskets are held in place by either screws hidden behind the gasket or a snap-in channel where the gasket is pressed into the door.

For screw-mounted gaskets:

• Pull back the inner lip of the gasket to reveal the mounting screws
• Loosen (don’t fully remove) the screws that hold the gasket in place
• Work your way around the entire door until all screws are loosened

For snap-in gaskets, start at a corner and gently pull the gasket out of its channel, continuing around the entire door until it’s completely removed.

Step 3: Clean the mounting area

Before installing the new gasket, it’s important to clean the mounting surface. Remove any food residue, mold, or debris from the gasket channel or mounting area using a mixture of warm water and mild dish soap. For stubborn residue, use a soft brush or old toothbrush to gently scrub the area.

Wipe down the mounting surface with a clean, damp cloth to remove any soap residue, then thoroughly dry the area with a clean towel before proceeding. This cleaning step is crucial as any debris left behind could prevent the new gasket from creating a proper seal.

Step 4: Install the new gasket

The installation process will depend on whether your gasket is screw-mounted or snap-in.

For screw-mounted gaskets:

• Start at one of the top corners of the door
• Align the new gasket with the mounting area, ensuring the screw holes line up with the loosened screws
• Press the gasket onto the loosened screws and work your way around the door
• Once the entire gasket is positioned correctly, tighten all the screws—but don’t overtighten

For snap-in gaskets:

• Start at one of the top corners of the door
• Press the retaining lip of the new gasket into the channel
• Work your way around the door, pressing the gasket firmly into place
• Ensure the gasket is seated properly all the way around

If your new gasket feels stiff and difficult to install, you can make it more pliable by:

• Soaking it in warm water for a few minutes before installation
• Using a hairdryer on low heat to gently warm the gasket

Step 5: Test and adjust the seal

After installing the new gasket, you’ll need to test and adjust it to ensure a proper seal:

• Close the door and visually inspect the gasket for any areas that appear uneven
• Perform the dollar bill test around different points of the door
• If certain areas aren’t sealing properly, adjust the screws or press the gasket more firmly into place
• For creases or folds from packaging, close the door for 24 hours or apply gentle heat with a hairdryer

Maintenance Tips for Your New Gasket

To extend the life of your new refrigerator door gasket:

• Clean it regularly with mild soap and water
• Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals that can damage the rubber
• Wipe up spills immediately to prevent staining and deterioration
• Check periodically for proper sealing using the dollar bill test

Some manufacturers recommend applying a thin coat of petroleum jelly to prevent cracking and help maintain flexibility.

Summary

Replacing your refrigerator door gasket is a relatively simple process that can help improve your refrigerator’s efficiency and performance. Following these five simple steps, you can complete this repair without professional help. 

A properly functioning door gasket not only helps reduce your energy bills but also ensures your food stays fresher longer and your refrigerator operates at its best. If you try this but feel overwhelmed, don’t panic, you can always call a professional to help.