Clean or Replace? How to Tell What Your Commercial Refrigeration Gasket Really Needs

Your commercial refrigeration gasket might not be the most glamorous part of your kitchen, but it’s a behind-the-scenes hero that works hard to keep your food fresh and your energy bills low. That’s why it’s important to know whether your gasket just needs a good scrub—or if it’s time to throw in the towel and replace it.

At CoolerGaskets.com, we’re all about helping you get the most life out of your equipment. So let’s break it down: when should you clean your gasket, and when is it time to replace it?

Signs It’s Time to Clean Your Gasket

Commercial gaskets are constantly exposed to moisture, food particles, and daily wear. A dirty gasket won’t seal properly, which means your cooler or freezer has to work harder—costing you money and risking food safety.

Here’s how to know your gasket just needs some TLC:

• Visible Dirt or Mold: If you see black, green, or fuzzy buildup, it’s mold or mildew. Gross? Yes. But usually fixable with a good cleaning.

• Sticky or Gummy Texture: This can come from spilled liquids or built-up grime. A sticky gasket won’t seal well but can often be restored with a thorough cleaning.

• Odor: Funky smells often mean there’s bacteria or mold hiding in the crevices. Again, a deep clean might do the trick.

Cleaning Tip: Use warm soapy water or a vinegar solution with a soft cloth or toothbrush to clean all sides of the gasket. Avoid harsh chemicals that can degrade the rubber.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Gasket

Even with the best care, gaskets don’t last forever. When they wear out, they can’t seal properly—leading to temperature fluctuations, ice build-up, and rising energy costs.

Here’s how to know it’s time to replace it:

• Cracks or Splits in the Material: If you can see cracks, tears, or fraying, cleaning won’t help. That gasket is done.

• Warping or Gaps: If the gasket no longer sits flush or you can see light around the door when it’s closed, it’s not sealing—time for a replacement.

• Hard or Brittle Texture: Over time, gaskets can dry out and lose flexibility. If it feels stiff or breaks when you press it, it’s ready to go.

• Persistent Mold or Stains: If you’ve cleaned it and mold or grime keeps coming back, it could be embedded in the material. Better to replace it than risk contamination.

Pro Tip: Not all gaskets are created equal. Make sure you get a high-quality replacement made specifically for your brand and model—like the custom-fit options we offer at CoolerGaskets.com.

When in Doubt—Check!

A quick visual and touch test can tell you a lot. Run your hand along the gasket and check for cold air leaks or unusual stiffness. If the gasket feels soft, seals well, and looks clean after wiping down, you’re in the clear. If not, it’s probably time for a replacement.

Need a New Gasket? We’ve Got You Covered.

At CoolerGaskets.com, we make it easy to find and order the exact gasket you need—fast. Whether you're looking to extend the life of your equipment or ensure top-notch performance, we're here to help. If you do find yourself in need of a new gasket, be sure to use the coupon code SPRING2025 to receive 15% off any commercial refrigeration gasket! 

Still not sure if it's time to clean or replace? Drop us a message or give us a call. We’ll help you figure it out.

Your cooler deserves a tight seal—let’s keep it that way.

*SPRING2025 15% off coupon code is only available for online retail customers through August 31, 2025. Coupon is only available for one time per customer.