How to Change Door Insulation on a Freezer

Order a replacement door insulation gasket from the appliance manufacturer. In some cases, you may also be able to order a new insulation gasket from the store where you bought the freezer. When the new insulation gasket arrives, hold it up against the old one to make sure it is the same size.

Place the new insulation seal on a flat surface and smooth out the wrinkles and imperfections that were caused by shipping and handling. Soaking the gasket in hot water or holding a hair dryer over it will remove those wrinkles and make the insulation gasket as smooth as possible. The purpose of the insulation gasket is to provide a tight seal when you close the door to the freezer. The gasket must be as flat and smooth as possible for a tight seal.

Take the food out of the door. Loosen the screws that are holding the existing insulation gasket in place. Pull the screws out about 1/4 inch. Remove the existing gasket from underneath the metal strip on the side of the freezer. The metal strip is located next to the existing gasket on the side of the freezer door. Pulling the screws only part way out makes it easier when you install the new gasket because you do not have to look for the screws or worry about losing them. Pull the old gasket off after you have disengaged it from the metal strip holding it in place.

Insert the top of the new insulation gasket underneath the groove on the side of the freezer. Work the new gasket under that groove, keeping the gasket as smooth and straight as possible as you go. Tighten the screws after the gasket is in place. Repeat the same process on the bottom part of the freezer door.