KitchenAid Air Leak or Defrost System Issue

Ice or frost buildup on the back wall of the freezer or around the ice maker.

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Possible Causes

Door gasket not sealing, Door frequently left ajar, Defective defrost heater or thermostat, Cracked or warped freezer liner

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the refrigerator before defrosting heavy ice buildup. Do not use sharp tools to chip ice.

Steps to resolve:

  • Inspect door gaskets: Check for tears, gaps, or debris on the freezer door gasket. Clean with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly.
  • Check door alignment: Ensure the door closes squarely and the mullion strip (if present) engages properly. Adjust leveling legs if needed.
  • Manual defrost: For heavy frost, unplug the unit and leave doors open until all ice melts. Use towels to catch water.

If frost returns quickly after ensuring good door seals, the automatic defrost system likely has a fault and should be diagnosed by a technician.

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Repair Difficulty

Easy 2/5

Required Part

Freezer Door Gasket
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