Over the course of many years of operation, the refrigerator seal gradually wears out and becomes unusable. As a result, the door of the unit no longer fits tightly to the body. The products in the chamber begin to quickly deteriorate, and the compressor works without interruption to maintain the optimal temperature inside the device. Energy resources are consumed, but the device does not fulfill its task - it does not cool the food properly. If you ignore the malfunction, it will lead to equipment breakdown and costly repairs.
The article will tell you how to check the tightness of the seal and replace the seal if it fails.
How to check the tightness of the refrigerator yourself
If the seal in the refrigerator does not fit tightly, the seal of the appliance is compromised. This is evidenced by frost appearing on jars of liquid and ice on the back wall of the device.
The ice that forms on the rubber itself indicates the location of the damage. If it is not there, but the problem is obvious, carry out an independent check: you need to understand where warm air enters the chamber.
To check, use plain paper. Cut a strip 40-50 mm wide. Place it across the rubber band and close the door. Tightly fixed paper indicates the tightness of the seal. If it falls out, then warm air enters the chamber at this point. To identify problem areas, the entire perimeter is tested.
The tightness of the elastic band is also checked using a flashlight. It is better to test in a dark room. The switched-on flashlight is placed in the unit, directing the streams of light towards the door, and closing it. In places where the rays penetrate, the refrigerator is not sealed.
Is it possible to restore an elastic band at home?
You can try to restore the deformed seal yourself. Modern inventive users have developed a whole collection of methods, among which the most common is the option of hanging the door. Technically this is feasible, but there is no guarantee of complete success.
In addition, when rehanging the door, you need to think about whether opening the door in the other direction will cause inconvenience. After all, a refrigerator is a fairly large unit. A place is carved out for it, taking into account every centimeter. Perhaps, when re-hanging the door, you will have to do a total rearrangement of the kitchen modules. Is it worth it?
Possible causes of refrigerator seal failure
Users usually notice the fact that the rubber has become unusable when obvious damage is visible, or if they themselves have damaged the seal .
Most often, the seal fails due to natural reasons. Over time, it hardens due to temperature changes. Its surface turns yellow and cracks appear on it. If the gasket is not taken care of, grease and other contaminants accumulate on it. This prevents it from adhering to the body of the refrigerator. In this case, cleaning helps the seal recover. Contact with fat and moisture also causes wear of the part.
Advice. Periodically (at least once a year) check the seal for serviceability.
Why the door of a household appliance does not close
There may be several reasons.
- Loops. Over time, the door fastenings may become loose. This results in the door not closing completely. In this case, the bolts should be tightened well.
- Damage to the refrigeration unit housing.
- Not a tight fitting seal.
Helpful information! If the door does not close properly due to damage to the refrigerator body, then you should not fix the problem yourself. You need to contact a specialist.
What causes a seal failure?
A flexible multilayer rubber band is placed around the perimeter of the refrigerator door and is responsible for its tight fit to the body . This ensures the tightness of the chamber and allows you to keep the temperature inside lower than outside, consuming the amount of electricity specified by the technical parameters. Temperature sensors monitor the correct operation of the refrigerator.
When the seal becomes unusable, the tightness of the unit is compromised. Warm air enters the chamber. When the temperature rises above normal, the sensor gives a signal to the compressor. It starts working to cool the air. Since the seal is broken, heat is constantly supplied, so the motor runs non-stop. The system is functioning at its maximum. This leads to wear of parts. The compressor overheats and may burn out.
A thick layer of ice freezes on the back wall of the device, creating even greater temperature disturbances. This causes breakage of the capillary tubes.
Food in the refrigerator either gets frozen or does not have time to cool down. This leads to their accelerated deterioration. So, milk turns sour in 2-3 days, and ready-made dishes spoil within a day. Unstable temperature conditions promote the growth of fungus and mold.
Advice. If you notice the first signs of depressurization of the refrigerator, immediately fix the problem. They can lead to more serious damage and costly repairs.
Method 4. Replacing the gum
If the seal is deformed, you can contact a service center; this is much more convenient than trying to replace it yourself.
If cracks and sagging on the seal are visually noticeable, then you should not waste effort on smoothing and soaking. Modern seals are sold as spare parts, and replacing the rubber yourself is not difficult.
If the seal is glued along the contour, then it should be removed carefully, after making cuts at the joints of the refrigerator door and rubber. You can remove the seal with a thin screwdriver, taking special care with the door. After all, it is made of plastic, it can also be damaged. The seal can be easily removed with tweezers.
In its place a groove is formed, which must be completely cleared of the foaming agent. The new seal is inserted exactly into this place, which is pre-coated with glue. You can also use double-sided tape.
Caring for rubber seals
The service life of the seal largely depends on compliance with the rules of operation and maintenance. Grease and other contaminants accumulate on the rubber surface, so it needs periodic cleaning. It is washed with soap and water, vinegar or soda, then wiped thoroughly.
It is not recommended to use aggressive chemicals for cleaning. After which it is recommended to lubricate the gum. For processing, use a special silicone grease for rubber seals (for example, Molykote 111, Efele SG-393).
When opening the door, do not cling to the rubber seal so that it does not move or become deformed. In order not to break the tightness of the gasket, do not slam the door too hard.
What is the danger of damage to the seal?
It is necessary to take appropriate measures in a timely manner if the seal is damaged. If air enters the interior of the refrigerator compartment, the temperature controller forces the compressor to work at full power. During non-stop operation of the refrigerator, the motor may burn out, which will lead to a complete lack of functionality of the device.
It is necessary to take appropriate measures in a timely manner if the seal is damaged.
How to repair an old seal
Let's look at how to restore the rubber band on the refrigerator if it moves slightly away from the door:
- If the gasket is slightly wrinkled and there are no cracks on it, then use a hair dryer for repairs. In this case, the seal is not removed from the door. The gap area is heated to approximately 70°C and slightly stretched. Then close the refrigerator until it cools completely.
- To restore the elastic properties of old rubber, it needs to be softened. To do this, carefully remove the gasket from the door. Pour boiling water over it and leave it in the water until it cools down. Then thoroughly dry and install in place. This method is considered more effective.
- If the gasket moves no more than 2 mm, then close the gap with paper. Cut a strip of the required width and fill the voids or glue it with double-sided tape. This will help get rid of the problem for a couple of weeks.
To restore the tightness, move the refrigerator door to the other side. This option is suitable for models that provide this feature. But it is not always effective - the probability of recovery is approximately 50% and depends on the period of use of the unit.
How to revive the rubber band on the refrigerator door in case of more serious damage? For noticeable cracks on the gasket, glue is used. It must be elastic and reliable. They use “Moment”, “88” glue, and silicone adhesives (for example, Tytan Professional, RTV 118Q, etc.).
Advice. Before sealing the damage, the surface is washed, dried, and then degreased with alcohol.
The longitudinal tear in the seal is sealed with tape. This type of damage is not particularly dangerous, but requires measures to be taken to avoid further consequences.
Why do you need a rubber seal?
The functional purpose of the door seal fully corresponds to its name. It provides insulation to the inner chamber. If heat enters the device, the operating efficiency decreases sharply. Worn rubber bands on the freezer are especially dangerous.
The incoming warm air will provoke strong condensation on the door, which forms an additional obstacle to ensuring tightness. The crust will gradually increase in size until the owner finally notices it.
Replacing the refrigerator seal yourself
If the rubber band is severely damaged, it is replaced with a new one. To do this, call a qualified specialist. Carrying out DIY repairs requires skills and tools. The quality of operation of the refrigerator depends on the correct selection and installation of the seal.
Instructions for replacing seals yourself
To make the repair you will need:
- new seal;
- flat screwdriver;
- glue or screws;
- putty knife;
- hairdryer
The gasket is attached to the refrigerator in three ways:
- self-tapping screws;
- glue;
- Herringbone fastening - a special groove into which part of the tape is inserted.
The easiest way to remove an elastic band is inserted into the groove. To do this, place a screwdriver between the body and the rubber and pull it back. The actions are carried out carefully so as not to tear the material. The seal is removed by unscrewing the screws.
It is more difficult to dismantle the glued gasket. The rubber is slightly pulled back and the adhesive layer is cleaned off with a spatula. In this case, in order not to damage the equipment, it is recommended to contact professionals.
The seal is replaced as follows:
- The unit is disconnected from the network and allowed to stand for 30 minutes.
- First, remove the old gasket.
- Then clean the channel for the seal. It is washed with water and detergent and dried. Then degrease with alcohol.
- A new gasket is stretched around the perimeter of the door and inserted into the channel. If the old seal was in the grooves, then the new one is inserted in the same way. If it was attached with screws, then the elastic band is also screwed on. In this case, they use new screws and try to get into the original grooves. If the tape was attached with glue, then a new one is glued.
- The surface is heated with a hairdryer, the door is closed and allowed to cool.
- They check the work. If the door does not fit tightly to the body, look for installation defects. When it opens with some effort, the installation is correct.
How to choose a replacement rubber seal
For replacement, select a part that matches the refrigerator model.
Sealing rubber bands come in single- and double-balloon types, with a magnet and self-adhesive. Therefore, first find out what type of seal is used in your equipment, or take an old seal with you to the store so that the seller can help you choose a similar part.
It is recommended to make the replacement within the same brand. So, you should not install a Bosch rubber band on an Indesit refrigerator.
Advice. If the unit is old and there are no parts for it on sale, use a regular door seal. It is sold in construction stores.
How to glue a rubber band to a refrigerator door
To glue the elastic, use glue that retains elasticity when dried, otherwise the elastic will peel off and move away from the base. For repairs, glue “Moment”, “88”, “Rubber” and its analogues are used.
The connection is carried out in 2 stages:
- A thin layer of glue is applied to the corners of the rubber square, leveled and stretched.
- Glue the entire perimeter with small portions of the compound, firmly pressing the rubber to the metal.
For gluing strength, clamps are used.
How to choose sealing rubber
The seal should be selected based on the brand of the refrigerator and its model. Rubber bands come in different types and the method of gluing differs. Some have an adhesive backing, while others are fixed with self-tapping screws. If you screw the gasket with self-tapping screws, you can damage the enamel of the device. Therefore, a glue-based sealant is the best solution.
The seal should be selected based on the brand of the refrigerator and its model.
Refrigerator seals come in different types and can be secured in different ways. Products come in one- and two-cylinder versions. They can simply be installed in a recess, or attached with glue to the surface, or installed using self-tapping screws.
You also need to pay attention to the part that will be glued; it must fit tightly. Some refrigerator models have special recesses for inserting an elastic band into the groove. This greatly simplifies the whole process, then there will be no need to glue it, you just need to insert it into the groove, and the removable structure is easier to wash.
If you screw the structure onto self-tapping screws, this method can damage the door or the seal itself. You can glue it, but it will be difficult to tear it off later. Therefore, it is better to choose a suitable rubber band for the refrigerator model.
in a refrigerator
If restoration does not bring the desired result, then you need to buy a new seal for the refrigerator. You can replace it in several ways. This largely depends on how it was originally installed. Let's consider two ways.
Use a sharp knife to cut off the old rubber. The new seal must be cut along the inner edge so that it does not extend beyond the door. It can be glued with double-sided construction tape.
Pry up the lining and pull the seal out. The new rubber is installed in the grooves with a screwdriver (the hard edge is directed inward). In order for the refrigerator seal to hold better, you can use a few drops of superglue for reliability.
If the old seal is attached to foam, then use a sharp knife to dismantle it. And in order to install a new one in its place, you will need self-tapping screws. The refrigerator door must be removed and placed on a stable and level surface. Carefully cut where the rubber is attached to the door and tear it off. Thoroughly clean the door of any foam. Drill holes for screws around the perimeter of the door. Cut the seal to the required size and secure it to the door with self-tapping screws. The rubber should be attached freely, without tension. Now the door can be returned to its place. Using awnings, adjust the uniformity and tightness of its fit.
The service life of some refrigerator parts does not always correspond to the declared one. Elements such as the seal often wear out. Replacing it will not require much time and money if you carry out the repairs yourself. We will tell you how to change the rubber seal on a refrigerator in this article.
Why do you need sealing rubber for refrigerators? The seal is a rubber band that is used to press the refrigerator door tightly against the refrigerator compartment so that air does not penetrate inside. If air gets inside, the refrigerator begins to wear out. Damage to the seal can be determined by the fact that ice begins to freeze inside the refrigerator, which usually accumulates on the back wall, and also if. The gap may be visible even to the naked eye.
How to prevent the problem
A number of rules must be followed:
- stop loudly slamming the refrigerator door: this breaks the seal of the rubber band;
- after closing, you should not immediately open the freezer, since there will be a pressure difference inside, due to which the seal will press harder against the body;
- When defrosting the equipment, clean the cuff;
- Do not place too many foods on the refrigerator door, otherwise it will warp;
- it is important to take care of the seal in a timely manner - clean it regularly, remove dirt, food debris and check its condition;
- do not open the equipment and freezer too often - this will not only extend the life of the seal, but also reduce the load on the compressor.
There are many reasons why the refrigerator door does not close tightly; the most common ones are discussed. As soon as a problem is identified, it is recommended to fix it immediately. By following the recommendations, you can solve the problem yourself at home and repair the equipment. If this does not work, you should call a specialist.
Video: replacing the gasket on the refrigerator
Tips and tricks
If the damage is minor, the seal can be repaired. Places of slight deformation are blown with a hair dryer or for drying hair (the hottest mode), change the shape of the elastic with your fingers and firmly press the door, fix it in this position for 10–15 minutes. Another option for restoring the seal is to remove it and immerse it in hot water, leave it for 15 minutes, when the part takes the desired shape it can be put back. Places where the tape has moved slightly away from the door can simply be glued, and small cracks can be sealed with sealant.
On a note!
If the tape is damaged only on the outside, it can be removed, turned over and reattached. Such a replacement of rubber on a refrigerator cannot be carried out if it was glued.
In order for the seal to last as long as possible, the door must be opened only by the handles or special recesses, without touching the rubber bands. When washing the refrigerator, all grooves in the tape should be cleaned with a toothbrush and soda paste. After replacing and drying the rubber, it must be treated with silicone grease; oils cannot be used, they make the material inelastic.
It is permissible to attach the new type of seals with double-sided tape (on the latest models of refrigerators), but no one can say exactly how long the part will last. Experts do not recommend using polyurethane foam to glue the part. For any mounting method, the tape must not be stretched. You need to measure the elastic from the upper corners (length and width).
Installation of sealing tape is not a complex type of repair, but requires attention and accuracy. You need to choose the right part, carefully remove the remains of the old gum and prepare the surface before work. By following our advice, you can change or repair the rubber seal in the refrigerator yourself, without using the services of service centers; the procedure will not take much time.
Selection of a new seal
The situation will remain the same if the new sealing material does not match the type of refrigerator or is of poor quality. The new seal should not have damaged areas, inhomogeneities, stretch marks, or lumpiness. The best option would be a seal made for refrigerators of the desired brand. But it is permissible to purchase another one with the same dimensions.
If you do not have an elastic band of the required size, you can buy a larger seal and adjust it to the installation location. To do this, you need to cut out excess pieces from the vertical and horizontal sides, and glue the joints with “Moment” glue. Before installation, the sealing rubber should lie for a day in the room where the refrigerator is located in order to adapt to the conditions there.
