How to Replace the Seals on a Refrigerator Door

If your refrigerator is running more than it used to, chances are the door seal or gasket is cracked somewhere and the cold air is leaking out. Another telltale sign that the seal needs to be replaced is condensation or mold on the seal itself. Replacing the seal is a simple project that anyone can do. It will take about 30 minutes and pay for itself in no time in energy savings.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• New door seal
• Screwdriver
• Talcum powder
• Bucket

Replace the Seals on a Refrigerator Door

1. Purchase a seal specific to your refrigerator's brand and model. There is normally a plate with this information on it somewhere inside the refrigerator if you don't have your owner's manual. Soak the new seal in a bucket of warm water while you start to remove the old one.

2. Lift up the inside of the seal. You will find screws that hold the seal's retainer in place. Loosen the screws, but do not remove them all the way. Pull out the old seal.

3. Start at one top corner and start placing the lip of the new seal into the retainer. The seal will only go in one way, so you will know when it's right. Once you have the seal completely in, partially tighten the screws.

4. Check the alignment of the door relative to the other door and if it's off, align it at the hinges.

5. Tighten the screws to the point where they feel tight, but don't over tighten or you will distort the alignment of the seal. Repeat the process for the other door if needed.

6. If the door seems to stick too hard, place some talcum powder on the hinge side of the seal. This will allow it to open easily.