If your refrigerator isn't keeping as cool as it should, the first thing that you should check is the seal around the door. Over the years, that seal can become damaged, caked with old food and coated with mold. Here, you'll find a few tips that can help you clean the seal, test the seal and replace it if it needs to be replaced.

Clean the Seal

You will be using white vinegar and water to do the cleaning. Simply mix one-part white vinegar with two-parts water in a spray bottle. Shake it up and spray the mixture on the seal. Don't forget the seal along the bottom of the door.

Tip: To decrease the mess that you'll make, get an old towel and set it on the floor in front of the refrigerator. You will be dripping all kinds of gross stuff and if you don't want to have to clean it up off of the floor when you're done, lay the towel or old blanket down.

As you're cleaning the seal, look for any signs of damage – rips or areas where the seal is coming off of the door. If there's any damage, it will need to be replaced.

Test the Seal

Wait until everything has completely dried. If you attempt this test while there is moisture still present, it will not work.

Now that everything is dry, get a dollar bill. Open the refrigerator door and place the bill flat in the seam – where the door and the seal will meet when the door is closed. Close the door and pull slightly on the bill. Does it slide out of the door easily? If so, the seal isn't air-tight anymore, and you're losing the cool air that the unit is working to produce. Repeat this test the whole way around the door. Even if the seal is good in one area, it may not be good in the others.

Replace the Seal

If the seal needs to be replaced, you'll need to remove the old one. Seals are attached in various ways – some use clips, and others use screws. Find the clips and/or screws and remove them. Once they're removed, the seal should come right off. If not, you may need to blow some heat on the seal to soften the adhesive. Clean the area with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol before putting the new seal in place. Talk with an appliance repair company like D& S  Appliance today for assistance.