Symptoms
- White frost or ice crystals coating packages
- Freezer burn spots on meat or vegetables
- Frost seems worse near the door
- Frost increases after power outages or frequent door opening
Likely causes
- CommonFood not sealed in airtight packagingAir inside loose packaging condenses and freezes as frost, and repeated freeze-thaw causes freezer burn.
- CommonDoor opened frequently or left ajarEach opening lets in humid air that settles as frost on the coldest surfaces, including food.
- CommonWorn door gasketA poor seal continuously introduces moisture even when the door looks closed.
- PossibleFreezer temperature fluctuatingInconsistent temperature from a failing thermostat causes repeated partial thaw and refreeze.
- Less commonHigh home humidity near the freezerIn very humid environments, more moisture is available to condense every time the door opens.
What to do
- Repackage food in airtight freezer bags or containers, pressing out excess air before sealing.
- Label and date items so older food gets used before freezer burn sets in.
- Check the door gasket for gaps using the paper test and clean or replace it if needed.
- Minimize how long and how often the door stays open.
- Confirm the freezer temperature is steady at 0F using a separate thermometer over a day.
- Trim minor freezer burn from food before cooking; it's a quality issue, not a safety one, as long as the food stayed frozen.
Tools and parts
- Freezer bags or airtight containers
- Thermometer
Freezer door gasketSearch: “freezer door gasket seal”
When to call a pro
If temperature swings persist despite a good seal, have a technician check the thermostat and defrost system.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.