Commonly referred to as a door seal or gasket, the pliable material attached near the perimeter of the appliance's door is an important part of the refrigerator's cooling process. The soft, rubbery material and pleated design compresses and expands easily to create an air-tight seal. But with time or a lack of proper care, the seal can harden, crack, or even slip out of place, allowing cold air to begin leaking out of the refrigerator's food storage compartment.
If you would like to learn more about your refrigerator's door seal, including what you can do to extend its usable life span, this brief guide can be helpful.
Cleaning your refrigerator door seal
In order to remain pliable and form a tight seal, the door seal must be kept clean and free of drips, crumbs, and dirt. In most cases, using a soft cloth saturated with a gentle cleaning solution, such as one made from dissolving a large spoonful of baking soda in a quart of warm water, can provide the necessary cleaning power needed for the job without damaging the gasket's surface.
Cotton swabs can also be dipped into the solution and used to clean between the folds of the seal to get out any remaining debris. To finish, wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth to remove all traces of moisture.
Removing mold from the door seal
In addition to attracting dirt and food residue, the door seal on your fridge can also develop areas of mold. Homeowners can safely use a mild white vinegar and warm water solution to kill and remove all traces of the mold. If mold has penetrated the seams or folds and cannot be reached with the moistened cloth or a cotton swab, consider using a soft toothbrush or paintbrush to gently penetrate and clean these areas.
Protecting your refrigerator door seal
Your refrigerator depends on the door seal to allow it to cool food efficiently and keep power usage as low as possible. Tips for protecting the door seal and extending its usable life span include:
If you must store an empty refrigerator or leave it in an empty home, always prop the door open just a bit to allow air to circulate and help to prevent mold from forming.
Refrigerator door seals that have hardened or no longer fit properly may need to be replaced by a reputable appliance repair contractor or service in your area. For more information, contact a company like D& S Appliance.
Share21 October 2019
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