The breaker strips are located just inside the front of the refrigerator case, near where the door seal makes contact. If the breaker strips are warped or cracked, they may allow moisture to get into the insulation between the inner and outer walls of the refrigerator.
Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.
Important Safety Notice: Before removing the breaker strips, unplug the refrigerator to avoid an electrical shock hazard.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flat-head)
- Warm water
- Towel
- Safety gloves
Steps to Remove the Breaker Strips
Step 1: Safety First
- Turn Off Power: Ensure that the refrigerator is unplugged to prevent any electrical shock.
Step 2: Warm the Breaker Strips
- Bring Strips to Room Temperature: The breaker strips need to be at room temperature to avoid cracking. You can achieve this by:
- Opening the Freezer: Open the freezer and allow it to come up to room temperature. This can take 2 to 4 hours.
- Using a Warm Towel: Soak a towel in warm water and hold it against the breaker strips to warm them up. This is a quicker method and can be done in a few minutes.
Step 3: Locate the Breaker Strips
- Identify the Location: The breaker strips are situated just inside the front of the refrigerator case, where the door seal makes contact.
Step 4: Remove the Screws
- Locate and Remove Screws: The breaker strips are typically held in place with screws. Use a screwdriver to locate and remove these screws. Depending on the model, you may need either a Phillips or a flat-head screwdriver.
- Remove Screws Carefully: Be careful while removing the screws to avoid stripping them or causing damage to the surrounding area.
Step 5: Remove the Breaker Strips
- Gently Pull Strips Away: After removing the screws, gently pull the breaker strips away from the refrigerator case. If they are still stuck, you can gently wiggle them to loosen them.
- Inspect for Damage: Inspect the breaker strips for any damage. If they are warped or cracked, they should be replaced.
Step 6: Clean the Area
- Clean the Contact Area: Before installing new breaker strips, clean the area where they were installed. Remove any debris or moisture to ensure a good seal with the new strips.
Tips and Warnings
- Handle with Care: Breaker strips can be fragile, especially if they are cold. Handle them gently to avoid breaking them.
- Use Genuine Parts: If replacing the breaker strips, use genuine replacement parts for optimal performance and longevity.
- Consult the Manual: Always refer to your refrigerator’s user manual for specific instructions related to your model.
- Seek Professional Help: If you are unsure about any step or if the problem persists, consider seeking help from a professional technician.
By following these steps, you can effectively remove the breaker strips from your refrigerator, ensuring that you can inspect, clean, or replace them as necessary. Regular maintenance and timely repairs will help keep your refrigerator running efficiently and extend its lifespan.
