Tips on maintaining your Refrigerator

Inspecting and cleaning a door gasket

Things You'll Need

• Scrub Brush
• Soap
• Dollar Bill
• Cord Caulk
• Replacement Gasket
• Screwdriver, or nut driver and socket

Step One

Inspect the gasket for dirt or debris that could prevent it from sealing. If you find any, remove the large debris, then wash the gasket, using a scrub brush and warm, soapy water.

Step Two

Check the gasket for cracks or tears that can let cold air escape. If you find any, replace the gasket. If the gasket appears to be solid, go on to step 3.

Step Three

Check the seal: Open the door, insert a dollar bill partway and shut the door on the bill. Try to pull out the bill. You should feel some resistance. Repeat the test at several points around each door. If the bill slips out easily, replace the gasket.

Replacing a door gasket

Step One

Remove the old gasket. It is held to the refrigerator by screws and a retainer strip that runs around all four sides of the door. Lift the lip of the gasket so you can see the screws. Loosen but do not remove the screws, using a screwdriver or a nut driver and socket. Pull the gasket from the retainer strip.

Step Two

Buy a replacement gasket--and a package of cord caulk--at an appliance store.

Step Three

Prepare the new gasket for installation: Soak it in warm water to soften it. Then place a 2-inch (5-cm) strip of cord caulk at each corner of the door where the gasket will sit. This will keep the gasket from curling at the corners when it's installed.

Step Four

Install the new gasket: Slip the bead on the back of the gasket under the retainer strip. Tighten the retainer screws. Do the top and the bottom, then the sides. Make sure the gasket is straight and flat when you're done.

Step Five

Close the door and check that the new gasket is touching on all four sides. If it isn't, the door has twisted while the gasket screws were loose, and you'll need to adjust it.

Step Six

To adjust the door, loosen the retainer screws slightly, then grab the door at opposite corners and push or pull to remove the twist. Tighten the screws, then shut the door and recheck alignment. If the door still appears warped, repeat the process.