How to replace a freezer lid gasket

This DIY repair guide explains how to replace the lid gasket on a freezer. The lid gasket keeps warm, moist air out of the freezer. If the lid gasket is torn or damaged, thick frost forms on the food and inner freezer walls. Replace a damaged or torn lid gasket with the manufacturer-approved freezer part.

These steps show how to replace the lid gasket on Kenmore, Frigidaire, Gibson, Crosley, White-Westinghouse and Kelvinator chest freezers.

Instructions

1. Shut off the power

Unplug the freezer or shut off the circuit breaker for the freezer. Safely store any food that could deteriorate while the freezer is shut off for this repair.

Soak the new gasket in warm water to smooth out the creases created during shipment. You can also use a heat gun or hair dryer on a low heat setting to remove creases in the gasket.

2. Remove the lid gasket

Raise the freezer lid.

Fold the inside lip of the gasket back to access the screws and clips that secure the gasket to the freezer lid.

Remove the screws from the gasket.

Use a slot screwdriver to pry the plastic clips out of the gasket.

Pull the gasket and inner lid liner off of the outer lid panel.

Remove the gasket from the inner lid liner.

3. Install the new lid gasket

Position the new gasket around the inner lid liner.

Position the inner lid liner and the gasket on the outer lid panel and line up the mounting holes.

Reinstall the screws and clips to secure the new gasket and inner lid liner to the outer lid panel.

4. Check the new lid gasket for a proper seal

Lower the lid and check the new gasket for a proper seal. You should not see any gaps between the lid gasket and the top edge of the freezer cabinet when the lid is shut.

5. Lubricate the new lid gasket

Coat the new lid gasket lightly with petroleum jelly, which helps the lid close smoothly and protects the lid gasket from wear.