Door seals – also known as gaskets – play a critical role in the performance of refrigeration units, whether in commercial kitchens, cool rooms, or freezers. When these seals become cracked, torn, or start to pull away from the door, they compromise the unit’s ability to maintain the correct temperature, leading to higher energy costs and potential spoilage of stock.
If you’ve noticed frost build-up, warm spots, or the motor running more frequently, it could be a sign that your door seals need repair or replacement.
Why Door Seals Matter
The purpose of a door seal is to create an airtight barrier between the cool interior of the unit and the warmer external environment. A compromised seal allows cold air to escape and warm air to enter, forcing the refrigeration system to work harder to maintain the correct temperature. Over time, this added strain can shorten the life of the unit and lead to costly breakdowns.
Sourcing The Right Seal
In most cases, the best option is to order a replacement seal directly from the manufacturer. These seals are made specifically for your unit’s make and model, ensuring a perfect fit and optimal performance. When ordering a manufacturer seal, it’s important to have the cabinet’s model and serial numbers on hand. These are usually located on a data plate inside the unit.
However, problems can arise if the model or serial numbers have become worn or obscured. In these cases, all is not lost – there are companies that specialise in onsite door gasket manufacture. These providers can come to your location, measure the door, and create a custom seal that fits your refrigeration unit properly. While this might take a little more time, it ensures your fridge or freezer gets the tight seal it needs to function efficiently.
Cool Room and Freezer Seals
Cool rooms and commercial freezers use a more complex style of seal compared to smaller refrigeration units. In most cases, replacing these seals requires the door to be removed entirely. This job involves precise tools and expertise to ensure the door is re-installed correctly and the seal functions as it should.
If the door isn’t adjusted properly after the new seal is fitted, it can lead to poor sealing, gaps, or even damage to the new gasket. For this reason, seal replacement on cool rooms and freezers is best left to professionals who are experienced in these types of repairs.
Preventative Maintenance Matters
Replacing broken door seals isn’t just a repair – it’s part of good preventative maintenance. Regularly inspecting your fridge or freezer doors for signs of wear, cleaning the seals to prevent debris build-up, and acting promptly when you notice a problem can help you avoid bigger issues down the track.
If you’re unsure whether your seal needs replacing or you’re not confident doing the job yourself, call in a professional – such as those at All So Cool.
All So Cool specialises in the supply, installation, preventative maintenance and repair of refrigeration equipment. This can range from small-scale hospitality systems through to entire commercial machines.
Having your refrigeration plant serviced by All So Cool at regular intervals will prevent the chance of a system breakdown. We can tailor a preventative maintenance package to suit your business’s needs ensuring your refrigeration system continues running smoothly all year round.
Chat to All So Cool fridge mechanics Brisbane and Gold Coast on (07) 3422 0011 to discuss how we can help keep your business running cool. We are available 24/7.