The rubber gasket on a refrigerator door maintains its seal, keeping cold air inside. However, people often overlook this component. In summer, rising ambient temperatures force the appliance to work harder. If the rubber seal is damaged or worn, cold air escapes, and warm air enters.
This situation compels the compressor to run continuously to maintain a safe temperature, shortening its lifespan. Analysis from the electronics industry and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that a leaky door gasket can account for up to 21% of total energy consumption, increasing electricity bills by 15% to 25%.
Guy Chapman, a technical expert at U.K. material manufacturer United Silicones, demonstrates a one-minute method to check the rubber seal using a banknote. For slippery polymer notes, an A4 sheet of paper can be used instead.
To perform the test: place a banknote in the refrigerator door's gap, close the door so part of the note sticks out, then gently pull. If the note slides out easily with no resistance, the rubber seal at that spot may be compromised. Users should test multiple points around the door's edge, as rubber wear can be uneven.
In addition to the banknote test, a faulty refrigerator door gasket also shows these signs:
The refrigerator door does not close tightly.
Condensation forms around the door's edge.
The compressor runs continuously.
Food spoils quickly.
The rubber appears cracked, stiff, or deformed.
Ngoc Ngan (According to Mirror)
