How To Repair a Refrigerator Gasket

A refrigerator gasket is the rubbery material around your refrigerator door that creates a seal when it closes. The purpose of the gasket is to keep the cold air in and the warm out. However, if it is cracked, torn, or in poor condition, it will not work as effectively. 

If your refrigerator gasket is not properly sealing, you have two options: repair it, or replace it. Both options are relatively easy. Deciding which option is the right one depends on the overall condition of the gasket. 

The good news is that when it comes to refrigerator repair in Austin, a new gasket is a relatively inexpensive part. 

When to Repair the Gasket 

Inspect your refrigerator gasket and check the overall condition. If it appears to be in relatively good condition with just a single spot that is cracked, torn, or warped, you may be able to simply repair it. Repairing one problem spot can extend the life of your refrigerator gasket for a significant amount of time. 

When to Replace the Gasket

Upon inspection of your refrigerator gasket, if it appears to be very dry with a series of cracks or tears in various places along the door, it may be in your best interest to replace it. A dry, cracked gasket is an indication that it is simply old and worn out. Repairing it may help for a short time, but you’ll likely find more tears and cracks relatively soon. 

How to Repair a Refrigerator Gasket

Here are the materials and instructions for repairing a refrigerator gasket.

Materials: hair dryer, wax paper, sealant

1. Turn off your refrigerator. It will need to remain off for at least 8 hours. 
2. Store your perishable foods in another refrigerator or cooler. 
3. Open the refrigerator door and locate the problem. 
4. If the gasket is merely warped, use a hair dryer to warm the gasket. 
5. Stretch or reshape the gasket. 
6. Close the refrigerator door and turn it back on. 
7. If the gasket is torn or cracked, slide wax paper into the fold of the gasket.
8. Apply sealant to the tear or crack and cover with wax paper. 
9. Close the refrigerator door and allow the sealant to dry for at least 8 hours. 
10. If the sealant has sufficiently corrected the problem, turn the refrigerator back on and replace your food. 

How to Replace a Refrigerator Gasket

Here are the materials and instructions you will need to replace your refrigerator gasket. 

Materials: new gasket, screw driver 

1. Soak the new gasket in warm water for at least 5 minutes. 
2. Turn off your refrigerator. This repair should only take a few minutes, so your food may be able to stay in place. 
3. Open the refrigerator door and locate the screws that hold the gasket in place around the edge of the door. 
4. Loosen the screws and pull the old gasket out from under them. Discard it. 
5. Apply the new gasket, sliding it under the metal edge around the door. Stretch it as needed to fit. 
6. Tighten the screws. 
7. Close the door and turn the refrigerator back on. 

Should I Attempt To Repair My Own Refrigerator?

Some people will find it to be no problem to repair or replace their refrigerator gasket. Others may find that this is a job they do not wish to attempt on their own. You may also experience other problems with your refrigerator that are more complicated than a worn out gasket. Depending on your level of experience, you may find that calling for professional refrigerator repair in Austin would be a better choice. 

Refrigerator Problems? Contact Appliance Repair 512 

If you’re having trouble with your refrigerator, Appliance Repair 512 provides appliance repair services to Austin and the surrounding area. We can repair or replace your gasket and tackle other refrigerator problems. We also repair other household appliances. 

Call (512) 351-7624 or contact us today to schedule a service appointment. We look forward to helping you save energy and money with reliable appliance repair services.