If your fridge or freezer door isn’t sealing properly, cold air escapes, food spoils faster, and your appliance works harder than it should, leading to rising energy bills and potential damage. Replacing a faulty seal isn’t just a quick win for performance, it’s also a smart cost-saving move.
Whether you’re in a busy commercial kitchen or looking after your home fridge freezer, this guide will show you exactly how to change a fridge door seal yourself, the right way.
What You’ll Need to Change Your Fridge Freezer Seal
- New fridge door seal of the correct type and size for your appliance
- Mild detergent or washing-up liquid
- Clean cloth or sponge
- Hairdryer (optional, helps soften stiff seals)
- Screwdriver (for flap-style seals)
- Surface to lay the seal flat
Identify and Measure Your Fridge Seal First
Before you start ripping off the old seal, it’s crucial to figure out exactly what type of seal you need. Fridge seals come in various profiles, such as Flap or Dart, and getting the wrong type can mean your new seal won’t fit or won’t work properly.
We stock replacement seals for a wide range of popular fridge brands, including Zanussi, Electrolux, Foster, Willams, and many more. If you’re working with an older model or a commercial fridge with no standard replacement, we also offer bespoke seals to create a custom fit tailored to your appliance.
We also have helpful videos on how to identify and measure your fridge seal.
If you’ve already got the right replacement seal ready to go, feel free to jump straight to the fitting instructions below.
Dart vs Flap Seal: How to Tell the Difference
Before installing anything, it’s also important to identify the type of seal you have, as the steps for replacement vary depending on the seal style.
Most fridge and freezer seals fall into two main categories: dart profile and flap (compression/lip) profile. So, what’s the difference?
Dart Profile Seal
- Has a T-shaped “dart” edge that pushes into a groove or channel on the fridge door.
- Usually clicks into place when pressed firmly.
- Common on many domestic and some commercial models.
Flap/Compression Seal
- Sits behind an internal plastic panel and is held in place by pressure from a screwed-in plate.
- Typically has a flat or L-shaped back.
- More common in commercial fridges and older appliances.
If you’re unsure, check your current seal setup:
- Does it press-fit into a groove? If so, that’s a Dart.
- Is it sandwiched behind a door panel with screws? If so, that’s a Flap.
How to Replace a Dart Profile Fridge Seal
So now you’ve identified you’ve got a dart profile fridge seal, and it’s time to get it replaced!
For a quick video walkthrough, check out the video below for changing your dart profile.
If you prefer to follow along step-by-step, follow the instructions below:
1. Prepare the New Seal
- Take the seal out of its packaging.
- Lay it flat in a warm area for a few hours to let it relax and remove kinks.
- A warm seal is more flexible and easier to fit. You can even give it a gentle, warm blast with a hairdryer if needed.
2. Remove the Old Seal
- Start at one corner and carefully pull the old seal away from the groove.
- Some seals may be brittle or stubborn—go slowly to avoid tearing or damaging the channel.
3. Clean the Mounting Channel
- Use a sponge and a mild detergent to clean any debris, mould or adhesive residue from the groove.
- Wipe dry completely; any moisture or dirt could prevent the new seal from seating properly.
4. Fit the New Seal
- Start with the top corners: Press in the top two corners to anchor the seal.
- Followed by securing the top edge: Work your fingers along the top edge between the corners, pushing the dart into the groove.
- Next, secure the bottom corners: Repeat the same for the bottom corners.
- Push the bottom edge into place: As you did with the top edge, secure the bottom edge by pressing along the edge between these bottom corners.
- Secure the sides last: Lastly, work your way up the height of the seal to around the centre, then work your way down from the top to the centre. This avoids stretching the seal (dart seals can overstretch up to 10mm).
Top Tip: Use the edge of a blunt plastic tool or your knuckle to press in stubborn parts without damaging the seal.
5. Check the Fit
- Close the door and inspect the seal.
- The seal should be even and snug, and it should make full contact with the frame.
- If parts appear loose or wrinkled, reopen the door and press them in again gently.
How to Replace a Flap (Compression) Profile Fridge Seal
If you’ve got a flap profile fridge seal, follow these simple steps to fit your replacement seal.
Want a quick visual guide? Watch the video below to see how to replace a dart profile seal in action. Prefer written steps? Just follow the detailed instructions beneath the video.
1. Prepare the New Seal
- Let the seal rest flat for several hours to help it lose any shipping creases.
- Check that the new seal matches the old one in size and profile.
2. Loosen the Inner Door Panel
- Open the door and locate the screws around the inner edge of the door panel.
- Loosen them all (don’t remove them completely) until the panel slightly separates from the outer door.
3. Remove the Old Seal
- Carefully pull out the old seal from behind the panel. You may need to work slowly around corners if it’s stuck.
4. Clean the Door Surface
- Wipe the area behind the seal with a mild detergent and dry thoroughly.
- This removes grease and mould that could prevent the new seal from compressing properly.
5. Fit the New Seal
- Position the new seal behind the panel, making sure it sits evenly all the way around.
- Press gently into place before retightening the screws to hold it firmly.
6. Check the Seal
- Close the door and ensure the seal touches the frame all around.
- There should be no visible gaps or folds. If there are, you may need to re-seat or adjust parts of the seal.
Common Questions About Replacing Fridge Seals
Can you replace fridge door seals yourself?
Yes! It’s a straightforward process if you follow the steps and identify your seal type first. Fitting the new seal itself can be done in as little as 3.5 minutes, here’s how!
Are fridge seals easy to replace?
Absolutely! Once you’ve got the right seal for your fridge or freezer, fitting them couldn’t be easier and is most definitely a DIY job. Dart profile seals are usually easier; flap seals need a bit more care due to the inner panel, but just follow our video guide or step-by-step instructions for all you need to know.
Is it worth replacing fridge seals?
Definitely. A faulty seal can cost you money in lost food and energy. Learn more about when to replace fridge freezer seals.
How much does it cost to replace a fridge door seal?
Most seals range from £15–£60 depending on the brand and type. It’s a small cost for a big performance boost.
Aftercare: Keep Your Seal in Top Shape
Once your new fridge seal is in place, a little maintenance goes a long way. Proper aftercare not only extends the life of your seal but also helps your appliance run more efficiently and hygienically. Here are a few simple ways to keep things in top condition:
- Clean your seal regularly with mild detergent to prevent mould. Here’s a full guide on how to clean fridge door seals.
- If the seal isn’t sticking properly after installation or further down the line, this guide will help troubleshoot the issue.
- Healthy seals mean a healthier fridge, read our tips for a clean and efficient fridge.
Summary: Key Points to Remember when Changing Your Fridge Door Seal
- Know your seal type: dart or flap.
- Measure and identify your seal before ordering.
- Lay seals flat to remove kinks before fitting.
- Clean and dry mounting surfaces thoroughly.
- Fit corners first and avoid overstretching.
- Check the seal after installation for a snug fit.
Closing Thoughts
Replacing a fridge seal might seem like a small job, but it makes a big difference. From keeping cold air in to reducing energy costs and improving food hygiene, it’s a simple upgrade with long-term benefits. Whether you’re maintaining a commercial fridge or fixing up the family freezer, the right seal fitted correctly can extend the life of your appliance and save you money.
At The Seal Company, we’re here to support you every step of the way with expert advice, easy to follow video guides, and one of the UK’s largest selections of branded and bespoke fridge seals.
If you’re unsure which seal you need, can’t find your appliance model, or just want expert advice, we’re here to help. Get in touch with our team and we’ll guide you through finding the perfect fit, whether it’s a branded replacement or a bespoke seal made to order.