Lab freezers rely on a gasket to maintain a seal on the door. This will keep cool air in, and hot air out. A freezer gasket seal that is not working properly can have a huge impact on your freezer’s efficiency.
When the freezer gasket is damaged, dirty, or worn, your freezer will need to work harder to maintain its temperature. Additionally, samples towards the front by the door may not be kept to the proper temperature. This can have a serious negative impact on your day to day operations.
If this is the case, the service technicians at Cryostar can replace any of your refrigerator and freezer gaskets. In order to determine if your freezer’s inefficiency is due to a gasket issue, here are some quick ways to test it.
1. Feel for Cold Air
Using your hand, feel around the closed door for any cold air escaping. If you feel cold air, that means the gasket is not sealing. This can simply be the result of dirt buildup, which can be easily cleaned. While doing this, also check for any cracks around the gasket. If the cold air is escaping due to cracks in the gasket, you will need to have it replaced.
2. Use a Flashlight
Take a flashlight and turn it on. Place the lit flashlight in the freezer and close the door. Check around the closed door for any light coming through. This is a sign that your gasket is not sealing, and reducing the efficiency of your unit.
3. Use a Dollar Bill
Take a dollar bill and close it in the freezer door. Be sure there is enough of the bill sticking out so you can pull it. If the bill slips out easily, then there is a weak spot in the gasket seal. You should check around the entire seal, especially in the corners of your unit.
4. Inspect the Seal
Look over the seal closely and look for any looseness, cracks, tears, or dirt. Any dirt or dust buildup should be cleaned immediately to limit the chances of inhibiting the seal. The surface of the freezer where the gasket makes contact should also be inspected and cleaned, if needed.
When Does a Gasket Need Replacing?
While a simple cleaning of the gasket is the best case scenario, there are issues that will require full replacement. If any of these issues are present, you should have the gasket replaced immediately in order to limit freezer inefficiency.
- Cracks
- Tears
- Bending or warping, especially in the corners
- Hard to the touch, and not pliable

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