4 Ways to Test a Refrigerator or Freezer Door Seal

Use the dollar bill test Close the door on a dollar bill or piece of paper. If you can pull it out with almost no resistance, the gasket is not sealing properly. Test in several spots around the perimeter.

Look for visible damage Check for cracks, warping, or mold on the gasket. Any of these mean the seal is compromised and should be replaced.

Check for condensation If you see moisture on the outside of the appliance near the seal, cold air is escaping. That condensation is a clear sign of a failing gasket.

Feel for drafts Run your hand around the gasket. If it feels noticeably cooler near the edge, the seal is leaking. A bad gasket makes the compressor work harder and ice melt faster.