When should I replace a gasket/seal?

There are two main reasons for replacing your fridge or freezer door/drawer gasket/seal:

  • If the gasket/seal is split in any way: This will not only affect the sealing of the door/drawer but also harbour bacteria.
    • Splits can be caused by something catching the gasket/seal such as a tray, etc.
    • It could be a member of staff with long nails opening the door incorrectly.
    • It could be just wear due to either time or high usage.
  • The gasket/seal is not sealing. If you look all around the gasket/seal there should be no gaps. Gaps can appear for many reasons:
    • If the gasket/seal is very old and has lost its elasticity (older gasket/seals often appear flatter because over time the plastic becomes brittle).
    • Gaps can also appear because the appliance has been moved and not levelled (this can mean the door is now not exactly in-line with the frame of the appliance).
    • The door can become warped for various reasons.
    • The hinge may be worn or faulty.
A close-up of a hand holding a metal ruler next to a plastic object, measuring its width. The ruler shows both inch and millimetre markings, with the plastic object’s width aligning to about 1.8 centimetres or 0.7 inches.

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