How to Replace the Gasket Seal on a Refrigerator Door

If you need to replace the gasket seal on your refrigerator door, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we will give you easy-to-follow instructions on how to remove the old gasket seal and then install a new one so your fridge will start to operate correctly again.

If you’re not aware, the door gasket is the rubber seal that goes around your refrigerator door. When you close the door, the gasket ensures your fridge is airtight so the cold air doesn’t escape. Unfortunately, these seals can sometimes become defective and will need to be replaced. Thankfully, replacing the door gasket is quite an easy task—you’ll only require a replacement part and a screwdriver.

Simply follow these steps, and you’ll have your new gasket seal attached in no time.

Step 1 – Confirm it needs to be replaced

Before ordering a replacement gasket, it’s a good idea to make sure the gasket is damaged beyond repair. This is best done by simply inspecting it the whole way around to ensure there aren’t any cracks or rips in it. If you find it isn’t damaged and has simply come out of position, you may be able to reteach it by pushing it back in. if this fails or if it’s damaged you’ll need to replace the gasket.

Step 2 – Order a replacement gasket

Now that you know that you need to replace the door gasket, your next task is to order the correct replacement part. Most hardware retailers or specialist appliance parts retailers will have replacement gaskets. You’ll just have to know your make and model number. Thankfully, they aren’t very expensive as they come in very standard sizes.

Step 3 – Remove the old gasket

Once you have the correct replacement gasket, the next step is to remove the old gasket. Here’s what to do:

1. While you’re removing the old gasket, it’s a good idea to soak the new gasket in warm water as this will soften it up and make it easier to attach. If you don’t have a big enough bucket, you can simply place it in direct sunlight outside to produce the same effect.
2. To remove the gasket, open the fridge door as wide as possible and then pull the old gasket out from the door (but not too much as it’s secured by a couple of metal or plastic retainers that are secured with screws so won’t come fully off).
3. Locate the screws and unthread them slightly to loosen them up. This will allow you to pull the retainers out slightly.
4. Next, pull the gasket out of the door. You’ll need to carefully take it out over the retainers. 
5. The old gasket should now be completely off the door.

Step 4 – Install the new gasket

Now that the old gasket has successfully been removed, it’s time to install the new one. This can be done by:

1. Get the new gasket and place it into position. Make sure the screw holes match up when you position it. 
2. You now push the gasket into the door, making sure it is correctly behind the retainer so you can secure it in place.
3. Make sure the new gasket is firmly in position and then thread the screws back in to secure the retainers so the gasket is tightly in place.
4. To stop the door gasket from sticking to the fridge you can spray it with a small amount of lubricant or use talcum powder.
5. Close the fridge door and check if the gasket is working correctly. You can place a piece of paper between the fridge and the door, and then close the door before trying to pull the piece of paper out. If the gasket is correctly installed, the piece of paper won’t easily come out when you pull it.
6. If the new gasket is successfully installed, you can start using your fridge again!

Pro Tip: Give your door gasket a regular clean

To avoid having to change the door gasket in your refrigerator, it’s a good idea to give it a regular clean. Cleaning the gasket will stop any loose debris from causing rips to occur which is one of the main reasons they need to be replaced. Here’s how to give the gasket a good clean:

• First, use a small brush to remove any debris from the gasket.
• Next, use a damp cloth and hot soapy water or white vinegar to give the gasket a good clean. When cleaning the gasket, make sure you get deep into it so you can remove all the dirt and grime.
• Finally, dry the gasket before closing your refrigerator door.