Why is my freezer icing up? five possibilities

Ultimately, the answer to the question, 'Why is my freezer icing up?' is excessive moisture in your freezer. This then freezes on surfaces (walls, shelves, bars, etc.) and on or around components (coils, vents, etc.)

While some moisture is inevitable, the interior environment of a freezer should be largely cold and dry. Here are four common reasons for a humid freezer.

Incorrect temperature settings

The ideal operating temperature of your freezer, which will be stated in your freezer's manual, is designed to minimise humidity levels.

If your thermostat is set too low (i.e., warm), water molecules will break free from food items and increase the humidity of the air. But if you set the thermostat too high (i.e., cold), the pump will have to work harder than it's built to. This will generate excess heat leading to the same problem as an overly warm thermostat setting.

Freezer door not sealing

To stop warm, humid air from entering your freezer, the gasket (freezer door seal) must be intact and functioning properly. Any crumbs or grease in or around the gasket can prevent it from making an airtight seal when the door is closed. A build up of ice can itself interfere with your freezer door closing, so make sure you defrost your freezer when ice build up is significant.

If you can see gaps (or the closed door won't hold a bank note in place), we recommend removing, cleaning and checking the gasket over. Is the texture supple or rigid? If the gasket is rigid or you see cracks or warping, you will need to source a replacement.

Inefficient stock workflow

Fluctuations in temperature commonly cause freezers to ice up.

Every time you open the freezer door, you admit some warm, humid air into the freezer and disturb the equilibrium. As your fridge returns to its optimal temperature, water droplets will freeze on to any bare surfaces, increasing ice build up over time.

Consider adjusting your workflow so that you aren't constantly opening and closing the freezer door, or leaving it open for long periods of time. For example, clear labeling can speed up frozen food storage and retrieval, while altering delivery schedules may allow you to fill your freezer in one go.

If you are freezing hot food, cooling it in a fridge first will reduce the moisture content when you do transfer it to the freezer.

Poor air circulation

The interior temperature of different parts of a freezer can also vary, creating pockets of humid air that lead to ice. This is usually caused by poor air circulation within the freezer.

Air vents can become blocked with ice or food debris, so defrosting and cleaning your appliance can solve the problem. Overfilling your freezer can also impede airflow and increase the risk of frost.

If you've checked all four of the scenarios above, and you're still scratching your head asking, 'Why is my freezer icing up?' there may be a mechanical or technical problem with the appliance.

Replace your freezer door seals quickly, with no hassle

Many people who ask, 'Why is my freezer icing up?' discover that their gaskets need replacing.

Gasket Guy can source door seals for a wide variety of freezers, even those that are no longer manufactured. We can also make gaskets to order and fit them at your premises.

Visit our home page to find out how we can help you track down the right gasket for your freezer.