Fit a new fridge door seal in under an hour, keeping cold air in and energy bills down.
FS-01Find your fridge model and order the right sealCheck the model number on the sticker inside the fridge, usually on a side wall or at the back near the shelves. Order a matching replacement seal (gasket) from the manufacturer or a fridge spares website — seals are not universal, so the exact model number matters. Unplug the fridge and take out the door shelves before you start. Have a screwdriver and a bowl of warm water or a hairdryer to hand.
1 each · Replacement fridge door seal (model-specific)
FS-02Remove the old sealPeel back the inner lip of the old seal to expose the retaining screws or clips underneath. Undo these a short section at a time, working around the door rather than removing them all at once. Pull the old seal free once it's loose all the way round.
1 each · Screwdriver (to match the retaining screws)
FS-03Clean the channel and door edgeWipe out the groove where the seal sits with warm water and a little washing-up liquid to shift old food debris or mould. Dry it thoroughly with a cloth. Run your hand along the door edge to check it's flat, with no dents that would stop the new seal sitting properly.
FS-04Warm the new seal so it's flexibleDip the new seal in a bowl of warm water for a few minutes, or warm it gently with a hairdryer on a low setting. This softens the rubber so it beds into the door channel smoothly instead of kinking or sitting proud.
FS-05Fit the new sealStarting at one top corner, press the seal's lip into the channel and refit the retaining screw loosely. Work along the top, then down each side, then across the bottom, checking the seal lies flat as you go. Tighten the screws gently — overtightening can pucker the rubber and stop it sealing evenly.
FS-06Test the sealClose the door and check it holds a sheet of paper firmly all the way round — top, sides and bottom. If the paper slides out easily in one spot, that section isn't sealing properly; loosen the nearby screws, adjust the seal, and retest. Leave the door shut for 30 minutes and check the seal hasn't sprung back out of shape.
FS-07Plug back in and tidy upPlug the fridge back in and give it 1–2 hours to reach temperature before restocking. Refit the door shelves and put your food back in. Dispose of the old seal and wipe down your tools.
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