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How to Control Humidity in a Freezer

Thomas King

Humidity is simply the amount of moisture in the air. Moisture enters the freezer when the door is opened, particularly on hot humid days. This is problematic because the humidity can cause frost. This in turn can damage foods, surfaces, and ice makers.

Humidity can cause condensation on the outside of the freezer.

Fortunately, there are some things you can do to control humidity in your freezer, including controlling how many times you open the freezer door.

  1. Open the freezer door as little as possible. Similarly, when you do open the freezer door, close it as quickly as possible.

  2. Run an air conditioner in the summer months and a dehumidifier in the winter months. This will help reduce the amount of humidity in the air so that when you open the freezer door excess humidity is less likely to enter the freezer.

  3. Arrange for a professional to install an exhaust fan in the kitchen. An exhaust fan will help reduce humidity in the kitchen, which will help reduce the amount of humidity that enters the freezer and condenses on the outside of the freezer. Kitchen exhaust fans are generally connected to metal duct work that extends from the fan to the roof. Installation is complicated, especially considering that exhaust fans can be a fire hazard if installed incorrectly. If you choose to install the exhaust fan yourself, follow the manufacturer instructions closely.

  4. Manage the control settings as recommended in the manufacturer instruction booklet. Many freezers require different settings in the summer and winter to control humidity. If you no longer have the instruction booklet, contact the manufacturer for a new one or to find out the recommended settings.

  5. Check the door seals and repair or install new seals if necessary. An effective door seal prevents warm moist air from entering the freezer. Repairing a seal may be as simple as applying rubber cement to fix a tear. Most hardware stores carry replacement seals if needed.