One component of refrigerators and freezers that’s often overlooked is the door gasket–a.k.a. that rubber, accordion-like seal around the perimeter of the door. By forming an airtight seal between the unit and the door, it plays a vital role in keeping cold air inside. 

However, when your door gasket starts to show signs of aging, it can get stiff, deteriorate, or dry out, which prevents it from forming that crucial airtight seal. As a result, your fridge or freezer will struggle to maintain a cold enough temperature, putting the safety of your food in jeopardy. 

Thankfully, though, there’s a super-easy trick to fix your door gasket’s poor seal–and you probably have the supplies right in your cabinet!

Here’s what you need:

• Sponge
• Dish soap
• Warm water
• Clean rag or paper towel
• Petroleum jelly (e.g. Vaseline)

And here’s what you do:

• Clean the gasket with warm, soapy water.
• Rinse and wipe the surface and crevices until completely dry.
• Gently apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to all visible surfaces of the gasket.

This might sound like a bizarre fix, but we promise it works! See, the petroleum jelly clings to the dried-out gasket so when the door is closed, the jelly fills in the tiny air pockets between the gasket and the unit’s frame, thus creating an airtight seal.

However, be advised that this is usually only good as a temporary fix. If your refrigerator is getting up there in years, you will probably need to replace the gasket in full. But this petroleum jelly trick will definitely hold you over until you’re able to get a replacement.

Hope this helps!

For any other fridge repair questions, don’t hesitate to call Morris County Appliance Repair!