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Product Help | Whirlpool

How to Help Eliminate Condensation and Frost

How to Help Eliminate Condensation, Frost and Ice

These are the common causes of refrigerator and freezer condensation, frost and ice:

  • Normal condensation
  • Doors being left open
  • Doors being opened frequently
  • Air vents being blocked

Is it normal condensation?

Small ice droplets on the freezer walls and on the back panel are normal. 

A minimal amount of condensation is normal, especially during higher humidity conditions. If you live in a humid area, it is normal for your refrigerator to have a certain amount of humidity on the freezer or refrigerator

Humid room air causes moisture to build, especially when the doors are frequently opened. To avoid excess moisture buildup, minimize door openings. Get all items out at one time, keep food organized, and close the door as soon as possible.

An improper seal of the gaskets on the refrigerator or freezer doors could also cause humidity to form. Check the seal around the outside doors and the freezer door to make sure nothing is obstructing the gasket seal.

Moisture may also collect on the center mullion (divider between the freezer and refrigerator compartments) and the refrigerator cabinet flanges during periods of high humidity. Wipe surfaces dry as needed. Moisture on the vertical hinged seal (divider between the two refrigerator doors) may also occur during periods of high humidity.

If humidity continues, the temperature controls may be set too low.

Have the doors been left open for a period of time?

Frost is likely to build if the door is left open for a long period of time. This allows excess humidity to enter the refrigerator and freezer sections. Make sure the door is closing completely and is not blocked by something between the door gasket and cabinet.

Are the doors opened frequently?

Frequent door openings can let in humid room air. Keeping door openings to a minimum will help, but may not completely eliminate frost or ice in the freezer. During months of high humidity (especially if a home is not air-conditioned), it is normal to see some frost and sweating on the interior walls or on food packages.

Are the air vents between the freezer and refrigerator blocked?

Ensure the air vents between the freezer and refrigerator compartments are not blocked. Cool air enters and exits the refrigerator compartment from the freezer compartment through these vents. Objects blocking the vents will cause a decrease in proper air circulation which can cause temperature and moisture problems.  Depending on your model, these vents are in different locations.

Is the Energy Saver feature being used? 

The Energy Saver Feature controls a heater, that helps to reduce moisture on the vertical hinged seal. To turn the heater on, turn the Energy Saver switch to the "off" position.

CLICK HERE for additional information on the Energy Saver Mode

NOTE: Controls will vary depending on the type of refrigeration that you have.  For specific instructions, for your model, please see the Owner's Manual

If you would like to download or view product literature for your appliance, please visit our Manuals and Literature page.