We were given an old Kenmore upright freezer. Maybe 10-12 yrs old. Freezes fine, but the door is sticking. The magnetic seals are intact and in good shape - by sticking, I mean the door locks tight. When we shut the door, a suction is created and its so strong its impossible to open the door again. After 7-8 minutes or so we can open it again. When we shut the door we can actually see the top of the freezer 'cave in' a little as this suction happens. I know this isn't normal, so what can we do?
Freezer acting weird!
Sep 14, 2006
3 Replies
Check the bottom of the freezer for a plastic drain with a piston in it. Make sure that something sticky hasn't stuck it.
When you open the door, warm air rushes in. When you close the door, the warm air cools, creating a vacuum. A big vacuum. Time must then pass to allow sufficient outside air to enter to equalize the air pressure.
- You've got really good door seals, and
- Whatever vent the freezer uses to allow pressure equalization is clogged, possibly by ice.
Try defrosting (even if a frost-free machine).
Alternatively, tape a toothpick across the door seal. Just enough to create a new vent. Live with the whistling.
Hey - good advice from you guys!
The freezer was installed only a wek ago so there is no frost build up, but I will definately check the drain hole for gook.
Thanks!
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