A refrigerator that runs constantly and still struggles to keep food cold may have a worn-out door gasket. When the seal weakens, cold air escapes, warm air enters, and the appliance works harder than it should.
The fix is straightforward. Replacing the gasket takes only a few tools and a little patience. Follow this guide to restore efficiency and keep food fresh.
Why the Door Gasket Matters
The door gasket is the flexible rubber lining around the refrigerator door. It keeps cold air inside while blocking warm air from entering.
Over time, the material can crack, stretch, or flatten. A damaged gasket makes the refrigerator cycle more often, raising energy use and stressing the appliance. Replacing it is a practical repair that most homeowners can handle on their own.
Tools You’ll Need
- Putty knife
- Cleaning supplies such as mild soap, cloth, and warm water
- Phillips screwdriver
- Flat-blade screwdriver
Safety Precautions
Always put safety first when repairing an appliance. Here are some guidelines to follow:
- Unplug the refrigerator or switch off the circuit breaker before starting.
- Ventilate the space when using cleaning products or adhesives.
- Allow the refrigerator to cool down before working.
- Work carefully and avoid rushing to prevent injury.
- Make sure the area is well-lit and free of clutter. Keep children and pets away.
- Refer to the user manual for any model-specific notes.
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.
- Safety glasses or a dust mask may help when working with debris or chemicals.
How to Replace Door Gasket on an LG Refrigerator
Follow these steps to safely remove the old gasket and install the new one so your refrigerator seals properly.
Power and Safety
- Unplug the refrigerator from the wall outlet.
- Switch off the circuit breaker that powers the refrigerator.
Disassembly
- Open the refrigerator doors.
- Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the two screws holding the Mullion divider.
- Locate the hinges at the top, bottom, and center bracket, then push upward to disengage them.
- Pull out the wiring harness from the cavity and disconnect the plug by pressing the tab and pulling it out. Set it aside carefully.
Remove Old Gasket
- Push on the old gasket to expose the seam.
- Use a flat-blade screwdriver to pry out the gasket.
- Pull the old gasket away until it is completely removed.
Install New Gasket
- Clean the groove on the refrigerator door where the new gasket will fit.
- Position the new gasket and insert the corners into the groove first.
- Press the top and bottom portions of the gasket into place, making sure the flappers face outward.
- Close the refrigerator doors and check from the side that the gasket seals evenly.
Reassembly and Final Steps
- Plug in the harness and secure it back in the cavity.
- Reinstall the upper hinge, lower hinge, and middle bracket so they align with their tabs.
- Reattach the Mullion divider and secure it with Phillips screws.
- Verify that the gasket seals properly against the Mullion divider.
- Close the Mullion door and refrigerator doors.
- Plug the refrigerator back in and switch the circuit breaker on.
- Confirm the refrigerator powers on and begins cooling.
Tips to Keep a New Gasket in Good Shape
After replacing the gasket, regular care will help it last longer. Try these maintenance habits:
- Wipe the gasket regularly with warm, soapy water to remove food residue and dust
- Dry the gasket thoroughly after cleaning to avoid mold growth
- Avoid slamming the door, which can bend or weaken the seal
- Apply a light coat of petroleum jelly to keep the gasket flexible
- Check for obstructions like containers or trays that may prevent the door from closing fully
- Perform a dollar bill test occasionally to check sealing strength
- Replace the gasket again at the first signs of deterioration rather than waiting for major cooling issues
Also Read: How to replace freezer door gasket WR14X27230 on a GE refrigerator
Wrapping Up
A fresh gasket makes a bigger difference than most people expect. With a good seal, your LG refrigerator doesn’t need to fight to stay cold and your food stays fresher for longer. Taking the time to replace a worn-out gasket not only saves energy but also helps extend the life of the appliance. Keep up with simple maintenance, and you’ll avoid bigger issues down the line. A small repair like this goes a long way toward keeping your fridge working smoothly and your kitchen running without a hitch.