How to replace door spacer WR1X1794 on a GE refrigerator

Is your GE refrigerator not closing properly, allowing precious cold air to escape? You might have a worn-out door spacer to blame, causing annoying gaps at the top or side of the door. Fear not—our handy guide includes a step-by-step how-to video just below, ready to help you tackle this quick fix and restore your fridge’s efficient seal in no time!

The door spacer on a GE refrigerator is a small piece attached to the hinge that fits onto the hinge shaft. It helps to keep the door aligned to prevent any gaps that could allow cold air to escape.

If you’ve noticed issues with the freezer door not closing properly or gaps on the top or side of the door, you may have a worn-out door spacer that needs to be replaced!

This repair should only take a few minutes, so let’s walk through it together.

If you need a replacement door spacer WR1X1794, you can order one here. If you need more parts for your GE fridge, enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com or check out this page.

Watch here: How To Replace: GE Refrigerator Door Spacer WR1X1794

What you’ll need

• 5/16 or 1/4 socket wrench
• Insulated work gloves
• Replacement part (check compatibility with your model)

Read more: Fridge Filters: A Master Guide to All You Need to Know

Safety precautions

When performing any repair or maintenance work on a refrigerator or any other appliance, it’s important to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your fridge or switch off the circuit breaker before attempting any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by preventing any risk of electric shock.
• Before disconnecting any water lines, turn off the water supply to the refrigerator. This is typically done at the shut-off valve, which is located at the water line connection.
• If the fridge has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time and don’t rush while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see and access fridge parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your fridge or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the fridge or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Consider wearing safety glasses and/or a dust mask when working with chemicals, dust or a large amount of debris to prevent irritation or injury.

Read more: Why Is There Water Pooling in My Refrigerator?

Replacement steps

1. Find the door spacer on the top of the hinge under the freezer door. To access it, you’ll need to remove the door.
2. Remove the upper hinge screws using a 5/16 or 1/4 socket wrench based on the screws securing the top hinge. Hold the door while removing the screws to prevent it from falling.
3. Lift up the hinge and open the door slightly, then lift it off from the center hinge.
4. Once the door is removed, you’ll see a couple of washers and a large plastic spacer. Remove them and take out the old door spacer.
5. Slide the new door spacer onto the hinge pin.
6. Place the washers on top of the spacer.
7. Lift the freezer door and align it with the hinge.
8. Carefully lower the door onto the hinge pin.
9. Place the upper hinge back onto the top of the door and align it with the screw holes.
10. Use a socket wrench to secure the hinge with the two screws.

Read more: What Temperature Should A Refrigerator Be Set To?

Refrigerator maintenance tips

• Deep-clean your fridge by checking the expiration dates of any perishable items at least once a month. Dispose of them if they are past their expiration date.
• Periodically check the seals and gaskets around the refrigerator doors for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any gaps or tears, replace them.
• Check the temperature setting and adjust it if needed. The ideal temperature range for a refrigerator is 37-40°F. The freezer should be set at 0°F.
• If your refrigerator has an ice maker and water dispenser, replace the water filter every six months to a year depending on how much you use it.
• Clean the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the refrigerator at least once every six months to improve airflow and reduce the risk of overheating. Use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner with a narrow nozzle to gently remove dust and debris.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped you replace the door spacer on your GE refrigerator.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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