Sub-Zero Door Seal Installation Instructions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Remove the gasket from the box.

Lay the gasket flat on the floor, fully extended as if it were positioned against the door of the unit.

Allow the seal to reach room temperature.

Fixing shipping distortions: Use a blow dryer to gently warm any bent or twisted areas. Keep the dryer 5–7 inches away from the gasket. To avoid overheating, place a sheet of paper between the seal and dryer if needed. Shape the gasket back into place with your hands while warming.

Alternative method: Submerge the gasket in warm water for 30 minutes to help it relax.

Break-in period: It may take several weeks for the seal to adapt (similar to breaking in a new pair of shoes). To help, apply a very thin layer of Vaseline or baby powder around the corners near the hinge area.

Important Note on Leaks & Insulation

If you noticed water leakage before replacing the seal, or if you see ice buildup on the door or liner, this usually means the old seal was leaking for a long time.

Moisture may have built up in the door insulation and liner insulation, making them heavy and swollen. This can prevent the new seal from fitting tightly, or even cause it to pop out of its retainers.

What to do: Keep the door open with the unit powered off for one week to let the insulation dry. Or remove the door from its hinges, take off the liner, and use a blow dryer to dry the insulation.

Important: Original door/cabinet liner insulation is not available. You may use aftermarket insulation from a hardware store.

If the liner has bowed from years of leaking, the new seal may never stay in place. In that case, replacing the liner is the only solution.

Sub Zero Door Seal Installation Videos

These videos provide a general idea of how the door gaskets are installed.

This applies to other models not shown in the videos.

Sub Zero Door Seal Installation- Instructions- Video 1

Sub Zero Door Seal Installation- Instructions- Video 2

Sub-Zero Door Seal Installation-Instructions-Video 3

Sub-Zero Door Seal Installation-Instructions-Video 4

Sub-Zero Door Seal Installation-Instructions-Video 5

Sub Zero Door Gasket Instructions Sheet

These directions can apply to other models not listed.

Sub Zero Door Gasket Replacement: Designer Series (IT, IC, ID, IW Models)

NOTES: The door gaskets are made of a vinyl and may become temporarily distorted from shipping. Always carry gaskets by corners, this will help prevent further distortions and possible damage to magnets.

(GASKET PREPARATION)

1. Allow gasket to reach room temperature before removing from the shipping carton.

2. Gaskets do have a "memory" to their original shape, so distortions are temporary. To aid in returning gasket to original form, immerse gasket in WARM water, or lay gasket on flat surface, then use a hair dryer and CARE FULLY pass heat over distorted area(s), keeping hair dryer 8" to 10" away from gasket. CAUTION Hair dryers get extremely hot and can melt door gaskets! Use extreme caution to avoid over-heating!

Remove the Old Gasket:

Locate a corner of the door.

Gently pull the "dart" on the back of the gasket out of its channel.

Work your way around the door, pulling the gasket from the channel with steady pressure.

Clean the Door Channels:

With the old gasket removed, you will see plastic channels running along the inside perimeter of the door.

Clean these channels with warm, soapy water to remove any food particles or residue, ensuring a clean surface for the new gasket.

Install the New Gasket:

Start at a corner and insert the "dart" of the new gasket into the door's channel.

Work your way around the door, pushing the dart into the channel.

Focus on getting the corners properly aligned, as this helps keep the rest of the gasket in place.

Adjust and Secure:

Ensure the gasket is evenly seated and properly aligned all around the door.

If the gasket feels loose, you can use a hair dryer on a low setting to warm the rubber slightly, which will make it more flexible and help it conform to the door frame for a snug fit. Move the hair dryer in circular motions to heat it evenly. CAUTION Hair dryers get extremely hot and can melt door gaskets! Use extreme caution to avoid over-heating!

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