How to Install Refrigerator Gaskets:

There are essentially 2 types of refrigerator gasket installations: Push-in or Screw-in

Prep before installation: it is recommended to slightly warm up your refrigerator gaskets to make them more malleable. You can do this by either placing them in a bucket of warm water for 30-60 seconds or by using a heat gun/blow dryer for a few seconds all around the gasket. 

Push-in Gaskets:

Installation: Remove the old gasket by carefully pulling it off from its track. Do not pull it excessively as this may damage the door track. If you have a stubborn gasket try heating it up first and then use a flat-head screwdriver carefully alongside the inside of the track to remove it.

Thereafter, line up the new gasket with the door/gasket track and simply push in the centre dart into the track using your thumb or other smooth surface. Start by the top 2 corners and then work your way around pushing the dart with a bit of force until it stays connected to the track/door. Sometimes, it will appear as though the gasket is too big but if you continue massaging the gasket into the track it should fit properly.

Screw-in Gaskets:

Installation: First, remove the screws/rivets from the metal plate holding the old gasket, making sure to take note of how the gasket is attached to the door.

Thereafter, remove the gasket and clean the surface area of the door. Now, place the flap of the new gasket behind the securing plate and attach the gasket to the door. Screw-in 1 side and then the opposite side to hold it into place until you completely attached the new gasket to the plate/door.

Some potential issues that could arise:

• If there is more than an inch sticking out then you may have ordered the wrong size.
• If the gasket does not hold into place with the track then you may have ordered the wrong profile.
• If one area/corner is not sealing completely then use a heat gun/blow dryer in that area in order to stretch out the gasket material and then close the door for a few minutes allowing it to cool down and hold its shape. This procedure allows the seal to harden into the track and complete the perfect seal (do not apply too much heat just enough to warm it up slightly)
• If the seal is catching on the hinge-side then you may need to realign the hinges. This procedure depends on the unit but in general, you should remove them and either place washers behind it so that there is more space for the hinge to close or simply loosen the screws and pull it out a bit if there is any room for movement. This slight adjustment is sometimes needed for the door to adjust to a new seal as the old one was likely “squished into place” for some time.