What Can Cause Too Much Moisture on the Interior of a Refrigerator?

Having a little bit of moisture on the interior of a refrigerator is completely normal, depending on levels of humidity. However, if you notice a moisture buildup in a particular location of the refrigerator or if there are signs of excess moisture, these may be indications of a larger problem. Understanding the causes of humidity in refrigerators will not only save your refrigerator, but in some cases, your produce.

Opening the refrigerator door too frequently can cause moisture to build up on the interior walls as well as along the shelves and side door compartments. Each time the door opens, humidity from the surrounding air is granted access into the refrigerator. It is this humidity that is often one of the causes for the increase in moisture within the refrigerator. The more frequently the doors are opened, the more moisture is allowed to build up and at a faster rate.

The external environment also plays a role in the buildup of moisture in refrigerators. Several factors may affect the degree of humidity, such as location, season and how well air-conditioned the home is. It is completely normal for there to be some condensation in refrigerators for people who reside in a more tropical location with naturally higher humidity, during specific months of high humidity, or if there is no air conditioning unit within the home to mitigate the level of humidity.

Connecting the freezer and refrigerator compartments are air vents that allow air to circulate. They also help control the temperature and prevent the buildup of moisture in refrigerators. Blocking the air vents will inhibit them from working properly.

For instance, if large food items are placed in front of the air vents, this may cause a blockage in which the air flow is not able to function as it should. Removing items directly in front of the air vent to increase air flow function should correct the problem.

When condensation in refrigerators is primarily located on the ceiling or along the edges of the refrigerator door, this may be an indication that the gasket seal is at fault. The gasket seal prevents external air from entering the refrigerator while the door is closed. If the seal is weak or if there is a gap or tear, air can leak into the refrigerator causing a moisture buildup along the door and ceiling.

If the crisper bins in the refrigerator are showing signs of having a moisture problem, the cause may be placing produce in the bins without allowing them sufficient time to dry. Not only will placing wet fruit or vegetables in the crisper bin cause a buildup of excess moisture, but that excess moisture will also cause the produce to prematurely spoil.