A fridge door seal not sealing properly can cause a host of issues—from skyrocketing energy bills and food spoilage to overall inefficiency. Whether you’re a domestic user or managing a commercial kitchen, a functioning fridge seal is essential for a healthy fridge. A faulty door seal can disrupt your day-to-day operations and prevent your fridge door from staying cold, potentially impacting EHO compliance in commercial settings.
In this guide, we’ll explore the common causes of a malfunctioning refrigerator door seal, offer practical DIY fixes, and explain when it’s time to replace your seal.
Common Reasons a Fridge Door Seal Stops Sticking
There are several reasons why your fridge door seal not sticking properly might occur. The integrity of the door gasket is crucial for keeping cold air in and warm air out. Below are some of the key causes:
- Dirt and Debris Build-up
- Worn-out or Damaged Seal
- Incorrect Installation
- Fridge Door Misalignment
- Temperature Fluctuations Affecting Adhesion
Dirt and Debris Build-up
Over time, dust, crumbs, and even grease can accumulate on the edges of the door. This build-up interferes with the seal’s ability to adhere to the refrigerator door, leaving gaps through which cold air escapes.
Regular cleaning is essential for food hygiene and also to maintain a good condition door seal. If you’re in a commercial setting and clean your seals on a regular basis, this is less likely to be the issue.
Worn-out or Damaged Seal
Even with proper maintenance, seals can deteriorate due to age and frequent use. Look for signs such as cracks, stiffness, or looseness.
When a door gasket is no longer flexible, it struggles to form an effective barrier, allowing cold air to escape and causing your fridge door to not close properly.
In commercial settings, where equipment is required to be aligned with commercial standards, a worn seal can lead to significant operational issues.
Incorrect Installation
Sometimes, the problem isn’t the seal itself but how it was installed. A seal that’s not fitted correctly can leave gaps along the edges of the door.
Other signs that your fridge seal is not correctly installed may include the fridge door not closing correctly, excessive moisture or frost build up and noticeable changes in fridge temperature.
It’s important to verify that the seal is aligned correctly and installed according to manufacturer guidelines.
Fridge Door Misalignment
If your fridge door is misaligned, it can put undue stress on the seal, preventing it from sealing properly. Misalignment might be caused by uneven wear, damaged hinges, or issues with the feet that support the door.
Simple adjustments, such as adjusting the door hinges or learning how to adjust the feet of the fridge or freezer properly, can often correct the alignment, ensuring its level and improving the seal’s performance.
Temperature Fluctuations Affecting Adhesion
Extreme temperatures can have a negative impact on the seal’s elasticity. In very cold conditions, the rubber might harden, while in warmer conditions, it can shrink.
Both scenarios compromise the seal’s ability to hold the refrigerator door closed and keep cold air inside.
DIY Fixes for a Loose or Non-Sealing Fridge Seal
Before you consider replacing your fridge or freezer door seal entirely, there are several DIY solutions you can try.
Often, a few simple fixes can restore your door gasket to working order—though commercial technicians might also use these solutions as temporary measures.
Sometimes, it may just be time to replace your gasket but here are some DIY fixes that may help:
- Cleaning the Seal and Door Frame
- Softening and Reshaping the Seal
- Ensuring Proper Installation and Alignment
- Checking for and Fixing Fridge Door Alignment Issues
- Using Temporary Adhesive Solutions
Cleaning the Seal and Door Frame
A thorough cleaning of both the seal and the door frame is often the simplest fix. Use a soft cloth with warm water and a mild detergent to wipe away any accumulated dirt and grease. Regular cleaning not only improves adhesion but also prolongs the lifespan of the door gasket.
There are a number of different methods and solutions to use to clean your fridge seals. Some common options include:
- Washing up detergent: Using washing up detergent is an effective way to keep your fridge door gaskets clean. When you clean them regularly, a simple solution of warm water and washing up liquid is usually sufficient to remove grease and dirt, provided there isn’t significant buildup. After cleaning, make sure to thoroughly wipe down the gaskets and allow them to dry completely for optimal performance.
- Use a professional PVC cleaner: These usually come as a spray, and you should always check the product you buy is compatible with the type of seal you have prior to spraying it on. Once you’ve checked, and unless otherwise instructed, simply spray it on, leaving for 20-30 seconds before wiping it away with a clean, dry cloth.
- White Vinegar solution: For those looking for a more natural solution or do not have time to source a professional PVC cleaner – another great option is a vinegar solution. For this, simply mix two parts water to one part vinegar in a bowl or spray bottle and apply to the seal. Leave for 20-30 seconds and then wipe away.
- Antibacterial cleaners: If using antibacterial cleaners, ensure they’re food-safe, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely to avoid any residue affecting stored items. You should also ensure the product is safe to use on your seal. Harsh chemicals might degrade the seal over time, so it’s important to check the manufacturer’s guidelines first.
Top tip: For hard to reach or stubborn dirt, use a soft toothbrush to clean the seal effectively.
Things to avoid when cleaning your fridge seals:
- Sharp objects—even if wrapped in a cloth.
- Harsh detergents containing bleach or ammonia.
- Do not remove the seals for hand washing or dishwashing, as it can shorten their lifespan.
Softening and Reshaping the Seal
If the seal has hardened over time, using a bit of warm water or gently applying heat with a hairdryer can help restore its flexibility. Carefully work along the seal to soften and reshape it, ensuring that it conforms to the contours of the door. This process can often help the door seal reestablish its grip without causing further damage.
When using water, ensure the seal is thoroughly dried after application, and if using a hairdryer, ensure no items that require constant refrigeration or specific temperature management are in the refrigerator at the time.
Ensuring Proper Installation and Alignment
When installing a new seal or trying to fix a fridge door not closing, follow a step-by-step approach to ensure that it sits perfectly along the edges of the door.
Verify that the seal is evenly positioned and that there are no gaps.
Our detailed video guide on how to achieve the perfect seal offers a visual step-by-step guide, plus information on everything you’ll need for proper installation.
If you prefer to read along as you go, here are the steps:
- Step 1: Use a hair dryer to warm the gasket, but keep it at a safe distance to avoid overheating and damaging the rubber.
- Step 2: Close the fridge door and keep it shut for as long as possible—ideally overnight—to allow the gasket to mould into the correct shape.
- Step 3: Once the door has been closed for the recommended time, check that the gasket has formed a perfect seal.
Checking for and Fixing Fridge Door Alignment Issues
Misalignment can prevent the door seal from making proper contact. Inspect your fridge door to determine if it’s sitting squarely, and adjust the hinges or feet if necessary.
Common tools such as a level or screwdriver can help you realign the door, ensuring it opens and closes smoothly. Even minor misalignments can affect the overall performance of your fridge door seal.
For alignment issues, consult your refrigerator or freezer manufacturer’s guide for detailed instructions.
Using Temporary Adhesive Solutions
For a short-term fix, applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly along the seal can improve adhesion temporarily.
Alternatively, double-sided tape may help hold the seal in place until a permanent solution is implemented. Keep in mind that these fixes are temporary and should be followed by a more lasting repair or replacement.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Fridge Seal
If there are clear signs of wear or the DIY fixes explored have not helped, it may be time to replace your fridge door seal—especially in commercial kitchens where wear and tear is accelerated.
Persistent Gaps Even After Adjustments
If cleaning and realignment no longer close the gaps, it indicates permanent wear. These recurring gaps mean the gasket can’t maintain an airtight seal, compromising energy efficiency.
Signs it’s time to replace your fridge seal include:
- Persistent Gaps Even After Adjustments
- Visible Cracks or Tears in the Seal
- Fridge Struggling to Maintain Cold Temperatures
- Increased Energy Bills Due to Air Leaks
Visible Cracks or Tears in the Seal
Examine your gasket for any cracks, tears, or splits. Such damage shows that the material has deteriorated and can no longer effectively contain cold air.
Fridge Struggling to Maintain Cold Temperatures
A fridge that struggles to stay cold is often a sign of a failing seal. A weak gasket forces the appliance to work harder, which not only impacts food safety but also increases wear on the compressor.
Increased Energy Bills Due to Air Leaks
A faulty seal can allow warm air to infiltrate, causing the fridge to use more energy to maintain the temperature. If you notice a spike in energy bills, it might be due to air leaks from a compromised seal.
By investing in a high-quality, durable replacement seal, you’ll restore your appliance’s efficiency and ensure compliance with EHO standards. For more details, read our New Year New Seals article.
How to Choose the Right Replacement Seal
When choosing a replacement fridge door seal, it’s essential to ensure you select the correct type and fit. The right gasket not only restores your fridge’s efficiency but also ensures compliance with hygiene and safety regulations.
Importance of Getting the Right Size and Fit
Getting the correct measurement for your fridge door gasket is critical. A poorly fitting seal won’t create the airtight barrier needed for efficiency. To ensure accuracy, follow our easy-to-understand video guide on measuring your fridge door seal:
Differences Between Branded and Bespoke Seals
Choosing between branded and bespoke seals depends on your fridge model and specific needs:
- Branded Seals: These are standard replacements made by reputable brands like Williams and Foster. They offer guaranteed compatibility for popular models and are generally quick and cost-effective solutions. Explore our branded seals range.
- Bespoke Seals: If your fridge or freezer has unusual dimensions, is older, or the original seal is no longer manufactured, a custom-made seal is your best choice. Bespoke seals are tailored precisely to your measurements, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
If you’re struggling to find the correct seal, refer to our gasket identification guide or get in touch—The Seal Company can custom-make exactly what you need.
Purchasing a High-Quality Fridge or Freezer Seal Replacement
When investing in a fridge or freezer seal, it’s always beneficial to choose a professional supplier rather than a non-specialist replacement retailer. The Seal Company offers:
- Expertise and Knowledge: Specialist support ensures you select the correct gasket every time.
- Durability and Reliability: High-quality materials guarantee your replacement will last longer.
- Ease of Ordering: Our simplified ordering process and helpful resources make it easy to find the right seal.
Final Thoughts
A properly working fridge door seal is crucial for maintaining efficiency, keeping energy costs down, and ensuring food safety—particularly in commercial kitchens where performance is critical. While simple DIY solutions can often restore a failing seal temporarily, it’s important to recognise when a full replacement is necessary for long-term reliability.
For high-quality fridge door seals and expert support, explore The Seal Company’s extensive range or contact our customer service team for expert professional advice.