Your walk-in cooler or freezer has many components and features. Being informed about how the different aspects of your walk-in refrigeration units work and function allows you to know if it is operating properly or is in need of maintenance. The walk-in cooler door gaskets may seem minor and insignificant at first glance but they can actually make a large difference when it comes to how efficiently your refrigeration system operates.
Gaskets that aren’t pulling their weight can waste thousands of dollars over time. Avoid high energy bills by understanding how your walk-in’s door gaskets function and by checking them for damage regularly. In addition, faulty gaskets allow cold air to leak out of your walk-in and warm air to infiltrate it. The extra energy your walk-in puts out to regulate temperature can also cause excess wear and tear interior components.
Types of Gaskets:
Your walk-in cooler contains both a magnetic gasket and wiper gaskets. The magnetic gasket serves as a mechanism to seal your walk-in closed. It is found on the door of your walk-in. Magnetic gaskets are usually thicker than wiper gaskets and are made of flexible PVC material.
Wiper gaskets are found on both the walk-in unit door and frame. They are usually thinner than magnetic gaskets and work to stop outside air from entering the walk-in. These gaskets are also sometimes called wiper strips and are often made out of vinyl.
Gasket Maintenance:
REGULARLY INSPECT YOUR GASKET FOR ANY SMALL RIPS OR TEARS
SMALL TEARS CAN BE TEMPORARILY REPAIRED WITH PETROLEUM JELLY UNTIL A FULL GASKET REPAIR OR REPLACEMENT CAN TAKE PLACE
REGULARLY CLEAN YOUR GASKETS WITH SOAP AND WATER SO THAT DIRT, DEBRIS, AND FOOD DO NOT BUILD UP AND PREVENT YOUR WALK-IN FROM SEALING PROPERLY
KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR CONDENSATION OR ICING PROBLEMS THAT CAN BE EARLY SIGNS OF GASKET MALFUNCTION
Gasket Replacement:
Many walk-in cooler brands use different styles and sizes of door gaskets. Check the specific gasket for your model and brand of walk-in cooler so that you order the correct gasket. Contact a walk-in refrigerator/freezer professional to install your new gasket so that the gasket works properly and keep your walk-in cooler running efficiently.
Door gaskets are an extremely important part of a fully functioning walk-in cooler or freezer. Gaskets help maintain proper temperature, protect your inventory, and keep other components of your walk-in from being overworked. Proper maintenance and care can ensure that your door gaskets function properly over time.