If you purchased a used upright freezer and its door won't remain shut because the gasket seal that runs around it is torn, remove the seal with the following steps. After finishing, clean the freezer door before installing a new gasket seal. When you have completed the repair, you will be able to store food inside of the freezer, and it will remain fresh.

Materials Needed

• power drill
• metal file or putty knife
• measuring tape
• replacement seal
• spray bottle
• water
• detergent
• chlorine bleach
• soft cloths

Remove the Old Seal and Measure It

Use a power drill to loosen the screws that are holding the door's interior panel in place. Remove the hardware pieces. Separate the door panel from the exterior side of the door by firmly pulling on it. Insert the tip of a metal file or putty knife underneath a section of the seal if you have trouble grasping it by hand. Pull the seal out of the indented portion of the door and around the door's panel. Measure the length of the damaged seal and purchase one that is the same length

Clean the Door

Fill a small spray bottle with equal amounts of chlorine bleach, dish detergent, and water. Mix the contents for several seconds by shaking the bottle. Use the cleaning solution and a soft cloth to remove dirty residue that you see on parts of the door where the new seal will be placed. By cleaning the door, you will eliminate foul odors, and the new seal will remain flush with each side of the door 

Install the Replacement Gasket Seal

Pull one corner of the replacement seal over the door's panel. Arrange the seal so that it is centered in the indented side of the door. Pull the rest of the seal over and around the door. Inspect the entire seal to make sure that it is lined up the proper way. Push the door panel inward. Insert the hardware pieces and tighten them with a power drill. Shut the door and open it several times. If the door stays shut properly and you do not have difficulty opening it, you have installed the gasket seal the correct way.

Keep the seal maintained by occasionally wiping it off with a damp cloth followed by a dry cloth. If any staining ever becomes evident on portions of the seal, eliminate each spot with soapy water and a cloth.

Talk to a company like ASAP Appliance Repair, Inc. for more tips on keeping your refrigerator in great shape.