Gasket Installation Tips

Recommendations for installing snap-in gaskets

1. Carefully remove old gasket. Avoid damaging the track that the gasket snaps into on the door/drawer. If the old gasket is very brittle or there is evidence that ice has frozen in the track, we recommend that you first warm it with a heat gun, blow dryer, or warm water to soften it, thus minimizing the chance of cracking the track when the gasket is removed. Start at a corner and work your way around.
2. Ensure the track is clean and free of debris such as caulking, glue, and food residue.
3. Warm the new gasket under warm to hot water. The kitchen deep sink works well for this. Heating up the gasket will make it very pliable and easier to install, as well as minimize the chance of cracking the track it snaps into.
4. If the gasket cannot be pushed into the track by hand pressure, a light tapping with a rubber mallet or dead blow hammer also works well. It is best to start by securing the corners first then work your way to the center of each side of the door/drawer. Hard pounding of the gasket with a hammer will stress the gasket, especially the bellows where it attaches to the magnet pouch and the gasket mounting base.

Recommendations for installing screw on gaskets

1. Warm the new gasket under hot water. The kitchen deep sink works well for this. Heating up the gasket will make it very pliable and easier to install, as well as help it easily conform to its final fit between the door and frame.
2. Carefully remove old gasket. It is best to remove about two thirds of the fasteners, starting at top of the door, then position the new gasket along the top and install fasteners. By doing this prior to removing the remaining fasteners, you avoid the inside panel of the door shifting if it is held in place by the same fasteners as the gaskets and thus avoid the hassle of trying to realign screw holes.
3. It is especially important to make sure the gasket mounting lip is fully inserted prior to installing each fastener, otherwise you will end up with bulges that may protrude beyond the door edge.