Have you noticed that the door on your refrigerator or freezer is incredibly difficult to open at times? If so, you’re not alone. This problem is most evident when the door has recently been opened and at the end of the freezer’s defrost cycle. In these situations, warm air inside the freezer compartment is rapidly cooled. Since cold air takes up less space than warm air, negative pressure (i.e., suction) results. This can make the door very difficult to open until the negative pressure is relieved.
Five Solutions for Stuck Freezer Doors
- 1. Give it some time Typically, within a few minutes the pressures on both sides of the door will equalize and the door can be opened with little effort.
- 2. Break the Seal If you don’t have time to wait, you can use your finger to gently break the seal between the door gasket and door frame. Once the pressure is relieved, the door should open easily.
- 3. Lubricate the Door Gasket For a more permanent solution, you can apply a thin coat of petroleum jelly to the door gasket and wipe off any excess. This rejuvenates the door gasket and reduces friction, making the door easier to open. Not all door gaskets are compatible with petroleum jelly, so it’s best to consult your owner’s manual beforehand.
- 4. Make sure it’s Level Use a small level to make sure the refrigerator is not tilted backwards, which can significantly increase the amount of effort required to open the door. Refer to your owner’s manual for guidance.
- 5. Call for Service If all else fails, it’s possible that your freezer door is frozen shut. Avoid prying or forcing the door open. A professional appliance service technician can use high pressure steam to thaw the door and can also correct the underlying problem.
If you’re in need of a reputable appliance service company in Michigan, please contact us. We’d be thrilled to help!