Q&A for How to Replace a Refrigerator Door Seal

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Question

Can you fix the seal on a refrigerator?

Aaron Beth
Appliance Technician
Aaron Beth is the founder of Aaron’s Refrigeration Company in New York City and a factory certified installer (FCI) for Sub-Zero products. He specializes in the service and maintenance of built-in refrigerators, wine coolers and ice machines. With over 54 years of experience, Aaron is the recipient of numerous Super-Service awards from Angie’s Lists and 2019 Best-of-the City.

Aaron Beth

Appliance Technician

Expert Answer

Most seals are made out of vinyl, so when they split or tear, it's difficult to repair. It's best to just replace the seal if you can.

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Question

My replacement gasket has a twist in it. How do I get it out?

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Staff Answer
This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

wikiHow Staff Editor

Staff Answer

Lay the gasket flat and tape down any twisted spots. Leave the gasket for 1–2 days until it lies flat. If you already installed the gasket, try heating it with a hair dryer and reshaping it.

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Question

How can I order for refrigerator gasket on line and what is the cost of it?

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Staff Answer

Get a gasket that matches the model of your fridge. A new one costs anywhere from $30–50 USD.

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Question

How can I reattach a seal that has come loose?

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Staff Answer
This answer was written by one of our trained team of researchers who validated it for accuracy and comprehensiveness.

wikiHow Staff Editor

Staff Answer

Try putting a bead of silicone sealant along the edge of the gasket and shutting your fridge door. Leave your door shut as long as possible so the sealant can dry and seal the gap.

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Question

Where can I shop for a door seal for my fridge?

Community Answer

Check at any appliance parts store. You will need the make and model number of your unit. The ID tag is usually inside the door or on the back of the unit.

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Question

How do I put a strip on the gasket on my fridge?

Community Answer

It depends on the brand you have. Some fridges, like Westinghouse, use screw seals.

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Question

Where can I find a door seal for a good price?

Community Answer

You can most likely find one at your local hardware store.

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Question

What can I do if my fridge doesn't have screws holding the gasket?

Ian Nicholson

Community Answer

You should be able to just pull it off! Some fridge gaskets have a groove going around the door, and the gasket simply pops in (like a resealable bag).

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Question

How do I get the seal to touch if the door is slightly bowed, causing a gap in the middle?

Ian Nicholson

Community Answer

Heat the seal with a hair dryer so the seal walls soften enough to allow the magnetic strip to reach the door frame.

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Question

Should I leave the door open or closed if a refrigerator is not in use for several weeks at a time?

Community Answer

It depends on whether it is plugged in or not. If it IS plugged in, close the door but put a box of baking soda inside to prevent odors. If it is NOT plugged in, leave the door propped open to prevent mildew. If it will be empty long-term, unplug it and remove the door to prevent anyone (children) being trapped inside.

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Question

If the specific gasket on my refrigerator is no longer being made, can I substitute another of the same size and use it?

Community Answer

Check the old one against the replacement as for how they fasten to the door. And if the measurements are the same, then you can substitute it.

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Question

Can the fridge door seal cause it to not stay cool?

Community Answer

Yes, a bad seal would allow the freezer to leak air, making the freezer less efficient, causing it to work harder. When this happens, it can cause other parts to potentially fail. If it is more than just a few degrees from being as cold as it should be, then it is not likely to be caused entirely by the seal unless it is totally compromised.

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Question

Does the bottom of my door needs to be replaced? Can I do a patch job on it?

Community Answer

No, just replace the entire gasket to ensure it properly seals around the entire door.

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