Q&A for How to Paint a Refrigerator

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  • Question
    How do you paint an old fridge?
    James Guth
    Painting Specialist
    James Guth is the co-owner and founder of Chesapeake Painting Services LLC. With over 20 years of experience, James specializes in exterior and interior painting, drywall, powerwashing, wallpaper, staining, sealing, and carpentry. James holds a BS in Economics and Business Administration with a concentration in Finance from Towson University
    Painting Specialist
    Expert Answer
    I recommend you sand the surface well, wipe it down, then use direct-to-metal primer and paint.
  • Question
    What kind of paint should be used to paint a refrigerator?
    Community Answer
    Use Rustoleum Appliance Epoxy. Spray paint is the easiest way to apply, but can be brushed on as well. It can be purchased from most hardware stores.
  • Question
    Will painting the fridge affect the magnetism?
    Community Answer
    No, but do not get paint into electrical areas, as it may cause issues with the fridge.
  • Question
    Can the refrigerator be laid on its back for repainting?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Just wait 24 hours after you set it upright to start so oil can reach the unit again.
  • Question
    Can the inside of the refrigerator be painted?
    Community Answer
    It would be best not to paint the inside of a refrigerator, because paints have certain toxins in them that could be transferred to the food inside your fridge.
  • Question
    What kind of rust treatment works best?
    Community Answer
    Remove all loose rust and scale with a wire brush and sandpaper. Treat with phosphoric acid (Jasco Prep & Prime or similar). Prime with a good rust preventive primer and paint with the enamel of your choice.
  • Question
    Is winter a good time to paint a refrigerators?
    Community Answer
    Winter may not be the best season to paint a refrigerator but it really depends on your local environment. Since you do not want to go outside and paint it, you can always paint it while inside your house or even your garage if you have one, just choose a day that it's not so cold in order for you to open the windows slightly (if inside a house) and make sure you protect what is around you so you won't get paint everywhere (spray paint or paint drops on carpet for example).
  • Question
    What do I need to do about the seal when painting a refrigerator?
    Rudy Flores
    Community Answer
    Do not paint the door gasket; it can harden with some paints, or paint will flake off when dry. Use masking tape to protect the door seal from paint.
  • Question
    When changing the color of my fridge, can I spray or paint the outside plastic handles with the same paint?
    Community Answer
    Yes. Clean well with vinegar-water solution to remove any dirt. Use Rust-Oleum Primer for Plastic. Then use same paint as rest of fridge or color of your choice. Satin sheen works best for cleaning while not showing fingerprints.
  • Question
    Can I paint the ice and water dispenser?
    Community Answer
    Yes, but tape off the hose and dispensing parts really well, to ensure that no paint gets onto those. Use primer for Plastic by Rust-Oleum, then paint these items the same as the handles.
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