It’s simple. Whether you’re using a smart refrigerator or the 10-year-old model that came with your house, you want your fridge to stay cold and keep your food fresh. One way to help that happen is to maintain your refrigerator door seal. Asurion Experts know all about appliance parts and how to keep them up and running. We’ll share our best tips on how to clean and care for your refrigerator gasket.
What’s a refrigerator gasket?
The gasket, also called the gasket seal or refrigerator door seal, is a flexible strip that provides insulation around the edges of your fridge’s door. It helps keep cool air in and warm air out. Over time, gaskets can become dry and cracked, allowing hot air to enter the refrigerator, which can reduce your machine’s efficiency. If you maintain the seal or replace it when necessary, your fridge will keep its cool.
How to maintain your fridge door seals
Small issues like a broken seal can have a huge impact on how long your fridge will last, so it’s important to regularly check your gasket seal, especially if your fridge is too warm or you’re having other issues. Here’s what to do:
Check for a damaged gasket seal
Take a look at the gasket seal. Line it along the outer edges with petroleum jelly if it looks dry. If the seal is cracked or damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
Test the seal
If your refrigerator door isn’t closing tightly, the seal may have come loose. Inspect the area where the door isn’t shutting all the way. If you don’t have an airtight seal, you may need a repair pro to help you replace it.
How to clean your fridge door seals
Here’s how to clean your seals to keep your fridge working properly:
Dos
- Gently clean your gasket regularly using a washcloth or a soft brush dipped in a solution of 1-quart warm water with 1 tablespoon of baking soda or a mixture of mild soap and water.
- After you dry it, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to prevent the seal from getting too dry and brittle.
Don’ts
- Never use anything sharp to clean the gasket. It could rupture the seal.
- It’s not a good idea to remove the seal to clean it. Keep the gasket in place so you don’t damage it.
Is your fridge on the fritz? Check out our guide to 5 common issues that affect your refrigerator.
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