How to replace a worn-out refrigerator door gasket
Each of your refrigerator's doors features a molded rubber gasket which serves to keep the cold air inside and the warm air outside the fridge. Over time, the gasket becomes old and frail and starts to leak. As a result, your fridge will start to lose cold air, resulting in high electric bills. Moreover, the presence of brackish mold or condensation droplets when inspecting your gasket is a clear sign that it needs immediate replacement. This article will show you how to replace the gasket in 3 simple steps.
Required tools and materials for this task
It's important to get the necessary tools for this do-it-yourself project before you start in order to save time as well as frustration.
- New gasket
- Wrench
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- Petroleum jelly
Determine the refrigerator make, model as well as other identification details from the user manual. If you cannot locate the manual, check on the inside boundary of the refrigerator door or inside whichever compartment, close to the door, for the maker's identification plate. Next, check online for stores that stock similar door gaskets. Additionally, you can also visit the manufacturer's online site and find new replacement parts.
Step 1
Before taking out the old door gasket, insert the new one in warm water for several minutes. This makes it easier to bed in. Many gaskets are held in position by metal retainers fixed around the door perimeter. Lift up the inside flange of the old gasket in order to expose the screws securing the gasket onto the retainer. Using your screw driver, loosen but don't take out the retainer screws around the edge of the door and remove the old gasket from the retainer.
Step 2
Beginning at one of the top door corners, insert the new gasket flange behind the metal retainer, and proceed around the entire door perimeter. Use the screw driver to snug up but not completely tighten the retainer screws. Shut the refrigerator door and find out if the new gasket has been distorted during the installation. If need be, uncurl it by gripping the top and bottom sides. Push and pull the refrigerator door, and shut it to recheck for accurate alignment.
Step 3
Once installed, lubricate the hinge side of the refrigerator door gasket using petroleum jelly. This serves to reduce potential gasket drag.
In conclusion, a new gasket acts like a new seal which helps your fridge run more efficiently. This translates into reduced energy bills much to your delight. For help with this kind of project, contact a company that offers refrigeration repairs.