Causes of condensation around a refrigerator’s French doors

Condensation forming around the doors is a common problem for refrigerators with French doors. There are a few key culprits that lead to built-up moisture in this area. We’ll break down the most likely reasons and provide tips on quick fixes and replacing parts to address the issue. Read on to learn what might be causing droplets around your refrigerator doors and how to tackle it!

Temperature and humidity differences

One of the most common reasons you may notice condensation around the doors of your French door refrigerator is simple physics – when warm, humid air comes into contact with the cold refrigerator air each time you open the doors.

The condensation forms when the warm moist air causes the cold surface of the doors to reach dew point. As the warm air hits the much colder doors and seals, the moisture in the air condenses and turns to water droplets.

You’ll notice this condensation problem more in summer months when both temperatures and humidity levels are higher. Opening and closing the doors frequently makes it worse by constantly introducing new warm, humid air into the fridge.

There are a few tips to help minimize condensation from temperature and humidity differences:

• Try not to open the doors frequently or keep them open too long. Only open when needed to preserve the cold air inside.
• Allow some time between openings for the refrigerator to stabilize temperatures and humidity.
• Keep the refrigerator setting at the recommended temperatures – usually between 36-40°F for the refrigerator section.
• Make sure the refrigerator is well-ventilated and not located in direct sunlight or near the oven.
• Use a dehumidifier in very humid rooms to lower moisture in the surrounding environment.

Bad door seals

Faulty or worn out door seals are another possible cause of condensation. The rubber gaskets around the refrigerator and freezer doors are meant to create a tight seal that keeps the cold air contained inside.

Cracked, ripped, missing sections, or improperly sealed seals can cause cold air to leak out, resulting in condensation when the colder air inside meets warmer external air. Carefully inspect the door gaskets all the way around each refrigerator and freezer door. Look for:

• Cracks, tears or gaps in the rubber seal
• Flat spots where the seal is compressed
• Mold, dirt buildup or cracks on the inner folds
• Stiff or brittle sections of the gasket

Check the seal tightness by closing a dollar bill inside the door at several spots. If it slides out easily anywhere, the seal isn’t snug enough. If inspection reveals damaged, worn out seals, they will need to be replaced to resolve the problem.

Read more: How to Replace a Refrigerator Door Seal/Gasket (DIY Guide)

Other door parts

Carefully inspecting the door seals is the first step in diagnosing condensation problems. Issues with the mullion or center bar between the doors as well as the ice dispenser door are other areas to check. Correctly sealing the entire door system prevents moist air infiltration.

The mullion helps align the doors and contains a vertical seal that joins the two doors. Damaged, bent out-of-place, or worn out seals can lead to air leaks and moisture between the doors. Inspect the mullion seal and realign or replace it if faulty.

The seal around this ice dispenser door needs to make a tight closure as well. Check for any damage, warping, or wear that could cause leaks leading to condensation around the main doors. Replace just the icemaker door seal if needed.

Read more: How to Clean a Fridge Water Dispenser

Ways to minimize or prevent condensation

• Avoid opening the doors more than necessary. The more closed they stay, the less new humid air is introduced.
• Let the refrigerator stabilize and reach target temperature between openings. Don’t open and close frequently.
• Use dehumidifiers and air conditioning to lower humidity in the room. Dry air reduces condensation.
• Keep refrigerator section set between 36-40°F. Very cold settings promote more condensation.
• Make sure there is good airflow around the refrigerator and that it is not flush with cabinets or walls.
• Arrange items in an organized manner to minimize the time the doors are open. Keep frequently used items within easy reach.
• Avoid overstuffing the refrigerator as it can obstruct airflow and lead to temperature fluctuations.

Read more: What temperature should a refrigerator be set to?

Additional information

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