Weak refrigerator gasket

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Old 07-29-2013, 02:22 AM
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Default Weak refrigerator gasket

This is one of those tricks everyone should just know, so I'm sharing. When your refrigerator or freezer shows signs of a weak seal - (those mildew spots where air and moisture get in/out or when you shut the freezer the refrigerator door sort of puffs out and then back again).

This can happen to even new appliances. One seal will be very strong the other a bit weaker.

When you wipe the gasket down during general cleaning, dry it off and take a bit of vasaline and rub it on the gasket. It is amazing how much tighter the seal is. Reapply as needed.
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Old 07-29-2013, 04:06 AM
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Good to know and it would probably be good for your dishwasher and front loading washing machine as well.
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Old 07-29-2013, 06:20 AM
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Great tip!!!!!!
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Old 07-29-2013, 06:25 AM
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Several, several years ago my husband's uncle thought my freezer above the frig needed this treatment. He applied vasoline (maybe a little too much) . The door was so tight when I tried to open it the seal pulled loose from the door. Just a causion. Be careful.
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Old 07-29-2013, 10:47 AM
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Vaseline can degrade some kinds of rubber/plastic.
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Old 07-30-2013, 05:35 AM
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Thanks for the warnings. I didn't know vaseline could degrade the gaskets. I have been using this trick for over 20 years and never had a problem.
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Old 07-30-2013, 05:51 AM
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Most gaskets seals are made from latex now. Vaseline shouldn't be a problem over the life of one. My freezer and fridge has a vacuum that seals around the door. I can hear the suction when I close the door. I haven't thought to check the seals.
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Old 07-31-2013, 06:50 AM
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Thanks for the tip. My freezer door has one spot that doesn't seal properly. I'll have the try this.
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Old 07-31-2013, 08:42 AM
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Great tip...thanks....
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Old 07-31-2013, 11:25 AM
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OK....I'll admit I'm not too smart......Please tell me what a "gasket" is.......I understand your comments regarding the seals, but not "the gasket". Is that the rubber/latex around the door?
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