How To Fix A Freezer Door That Opens When You Close The Fridge

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Does your freezer door open every time you close your top-freezer refrigerator? While it may not be the be-all and end-all to your kitchen functionality, having to close the freezer manually is still annoying. You used all the known fridge organization hacks to make sure no items are in the way. However, nothing seems to keep the door closed. Don't worry, you are not alone. This is a common problem with top-mount refrigerators. Before you dial up your trusted handyman, here's why a freezer door opens when you close the fridge — and how to fix it.

A top-freezer fridge is what most people consider a traditional refrigerator, with a larger bottom section as the fridge and a smaller top section as the freezer. Air flows between the top and bottom sections through air channels; when the refrigerator door is slammed, air quickly rushes into the freezer, pushing its door open. This is a normal occurrence that shouldn't cause you any concern. But what if this continues even if you close the fridge door gently? The answer is simpler than you think — the fridge isn't level. While your refrigerator may have been leveled after installation, over time, it can shift out of place through constant use. You may think this is a sign that it's time to replace your fridge, but you can easily resolve the issue by tightening the screws at the bottom. 

It doesn't take much to do this repair; all you need is a power tool that can turn screws, like this BLACK + DECKER Cordless Impact Driver, and a leveling tool. After you collect your supplies, go to the very bottom of the fridge and pop off the toe grille or covering. It shouldn't take much force — just as much as if you were popping off a lid. Once the covering is off, you'll see two screws on either side. With your impact driver, tighten both screws to the right; this will lift the front of the refrigerator. Before finishing, take your leveling tool and ensure that your fridge is even. If it's not, continue using the impact driver until it is. Once leveled, secure the toe grille in place. Your freezer door should now stay closed.

If this repair doesn't solve the door problem, you may have a gasket issue. The gasket ensures that your fridge seals properly. If it's covered with gunk, the door may refuse to close fully. It's vital to clean this important part of the fridge regularly to ensure proper sealing. For any other issues, you'll need to consult the refrigerator's manual or contact an appliance technician for additional support.