Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before defrosting heavy ice.

Inspect gasket: Check the freezer gasket for tears, gaps, or hardened sections. Close the door on a strip of paper; if it pulls out easily, the seal is weak.
Adjust door: Ensure the door closes squarely and the rails or hinges are not loose. Adjust as needed.
Manual defrost: Remove ice buildup with warm air and towels. Do not chip ice with sharp tools.
Monitor: If frost returns quickly, test the defrost system components (heater, thermostat, thermistor).

Ice or frost buildup on back wall of freezer or around door opening.

Possible Causes