Refrigerator & Freezer - How to Loosen Doors That are Hard to Open

There is a Federal Government and an Underwriters Laboratory requirement that limits the amount of force required to open an empty freezer or refrigerator door. That limit is 15 pounds. These requirements were established many years ago to prevent anyone from becoming trapped inside the appliance.

All of our refrigerators and freezers meet this requirement.

Loosing Hard To Open Doors on a Refrigerator or Freezer

• When the freezer door is opened, warm air rushes in-side. When you close the door, all of the warm air rushes to the evaporator which creates a vacuum. This will cause the door to be hard to open for about 10 to 15 seconds after closing.

• Should you find it difficult to open the door or lid to your freezer, rub paraffin wax on the hinge side of the door. Paraffin wax is used for canning purposes and can be purchased at most grocery stores.

• Petroleum jelly can also be used.

Note: Candle wax is not a substitute for paraffin wax and should not be used around food.

Additional Appliance Inquiries

Whatever the need, we are here to fulfill it. Please reach out to us for support with every appliance. From a repair to a replacement, we are able to guide you through every decision.