Refrigerator - Moisture Inside the Fresh Food Section

Although moisture removal is a natural part of the cooling process, if there is too much moisture (condensation), it will build up inside the fresh food section. You may also have excess moisture in the freezer, but you'll see it more as frost or ice. 

Causes for excess moisture include the following: 

Initial start-up 

 
  • When the refrigerator starts back up after being shut down for a time (installation, moving, etc.), moisture may build up inside. This is normal and should go away after about 24 hours or once the refrigerator has stabilized at temperature.
 
Frequent door openings or door not closing all the way 
 
  • If the doors are opened frequently, warm, humid air enters the refrigerator. Try limiting openings in extremely hot or humid weather.
  • If the doors do not close completely, warm, humid air will collect inside. Please check the following:
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    • Are there food items that are blocking door closure? If so move the larger items off the door, where they can obstruct the door.
    • Is the unit leveled properly to ensure the door closes properly? The refrigerator should tilt back about 1/2". 

 

Defrost cycle

 
  • Due to the warm air temperatures generated during the defrost cycle, it is possible to see moisture forming on the shelves and side walls of the freezer. This moisture is caused by the warm air coming into contact with the colder temperatures in the refrigerator. This will disappear after the unit comes out of the defrost cycle and goes back into normal operation.

 

Moisture from food

 
  • Open containers of food or beverages will transfer some of their moisture into the air inside the refrigerator. Make sure all containers are covered or sealed.
  • Foods that contain a great deal of moisture such as lettuce, celery, etc. can be wrapped in paper toweling or placed in the vegetable bins that have been lined with paper towels.
  • Moisture may build up inside of adjustable or convertible bins if they are not set correctly. Incorrect settings can also result in frozen vegetables.
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    • Humidity Control: Higher for vegetables; Lower for fruits
    • Temperature Control: Warmer for vegetables; Colder for meats