Do you have a Kenmore freezer that is leaking cold air and causing frost buildup inside? Do you have trouble closing or opening the freezer door? If so, you might have a problem with the seal on your freezer. The seal, also known as the gasket, is a rubber strip that runs around the edge of the freezer door. It creates an airtight seal between the door and the freezer cabinet, preventing warm air from entering and cold air from escaping.
In this blog post, we will show you how to replace the seal on your Kenmore freezer and why it’s important. This is a simple DIY project that can improve your freezer’s efficiency and performance. You will need some basic tools and a replacement seal that matches your freezer model.
To replace the seal on your Kenmore freezer, you need to unplug the freezer, remove the old seal from the door, install the new seal around the door, and check for any gaps or misalignment.
The seal on your Kenmore freezer is exposed to wear and tear over time. It can get torn, cracked, or stretched due to frequent use, temperature changes, or accidental damage. A damaged seal can compromise your freezer’s ability to keep your food frozen and fresh. Here are some reasons why you need to replace the seal on your Kenmore freezer:
Before you start, make sure you unplug your freezer or turn off the circuit breaker for safety reasons. You will also need to empty your freezer and remove any shelves or baskets that might get in your way.
To access the old seal, you need to lift up its inside edge and locate the screws that secure it to the door. These screws are attached to a metal retainer that runs around the door perimeter. Use a Phillips screwdriver or a 1/4 inch nut driver to loosen these screws. Do not remove them completely, as they are needed to hold the door in place. Loosen only a few screws at a time so you won’t have to spend too much time screwing them back.
Once you loosen the screws, pull out the old seal from behind the plastic liner of the door. You might need to use a flathead screwdriver to pry out any plastic clips that hold the seal in place.
the new seal around the door
Position the new seal around the inner door liner. Make sure the magnetic side of the seal faces the metal retainer. Start from the top corners of the door and work your way around the retainer. Push the seal behind the plastic liner and align its holes with those on the retainer.
Reinstall the screws and clips that secure the seal to the door. Tighten them firmly but not too much, as they can damage the seal. Make sure there are no wrinkles or folds in the seal.
Lower the door and check the new seal for a proper fit. You should not see any gaps between the seal and the top edge of the freezer cabinet when the door is shut. You should also feel some resistance when opening or closing the door.
If you notice any gaps or misalignment, you can adjust the seal by loosening or tightening the screws accordingly. You can also apply some petroleum jelly on the seal to help it slide smoothly and prevent wear.
Q: How do I find the right replacement seal for my Kenmore freezer?
A: You can find the right replacement seal for your Kenmore freezer by looking up your freezer model number on the Sears PartsDirect website. You can also call 1-800-437-1673 to speak with a parts specialist.
Q: How much does a new seal cost?
A: The cost of a new seal depends on the model and brand of your freezer. You can expect to pay between $20 and $80 for a new seal.
Q: How often do I need to replace the seal?
A: The seal is a durable part that can last for several years. However, it can deteriorate over time due to exposure to heat, moisture, or dirt. You should replace the seal if it is torn, cracked, or stretched, or if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above.
Replacing the seal on your Kenmore freezer is a simple way to improve your freezer’s performance and efficiency. You will need some basic tools and a new seal that matches your freezer model. By replacing the seal, you can prevent air leakage, frost buildup, and energy waste.
