Amana Refrigerator: not closing properly

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Amana refrigerator isn't closing properly, you may notice gaps along the door frame or the door remaining ajar even after you push it shut. This common issue can stem from obstructions inside the fridge, worn components, or misaligned hinges. Addressing these problems promptly ensures optimal cooling and prevents food spoilage.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Amana Models

  • Vertical-hinged seal on French door models can block closure if not folded inward before closing

Possible Causes

Obstruction inside fridge preventing door closure

How to Identify: Door cannot fully close when items bump against the door or shelves. Items are visibly misaligned or blocking door path.

Part: Internal shelves/bins or stored items

Worn closing cam/door catch mechanism

How to Identify: Door does not swing closed with typical force; lacks smooth closing action or self-close function.

Part: Closing cam / door catch

Bent or damaged hinge(s) causing misalignment

How to Identify: Door appears tilted or sagging; visible hinge damage or uneven gaps around door perimeter.

Part: Door hinges (top, bottom, center)

French door vertical-hinged seal mispositioned

How to Identify: On French door models, the vertical seal remains folded outward, blocking proper contact between doors.

Part: Vertical hinged seal (mullion)

DIY Solutions

Remove Obstructions and Reposition Items

Easy 5–10 minutes
  1. Open fridge and check that shelves and bins are properly seated.
  2. Rearrange or remove items blocking door swing path.
  3. Ensure no items extend beyond interior boundaries preventing door closure.
⚠️ Safety First: Be cautious of heavy items falling when rearranging.

Clean and Inspect Door Gasket

Easy 10–20 minutes
Tools Needed: Warm water, Soft cloth, Mild detergent
  1. Mix warm water with mild detergent.
  2. Wipe gasket thoroughly to remove dirt or debris.
  3. Inspect gasket for cracks or kinks; reposition if kinked.
  4. Dry gasket before closing door to test seal.

Level the Refrigerator

Moderate 15–30 minutes
Tools Needed: Level tool, Wrench or pliers
  1. Place a level tool on top of refrigerator front-to-back and side-to-side.
  2. Adjust leveling legs until refrigerator is balanced.
  3. Re-test closing operation of doors.
⚠️ Safety First: Be careful handling heavy refrigerator; do not tilt dangerously.

Adjust or Replace Closing Cam Mechanism

Advanced 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver set, Socket driver
  1. Unplug refrigerator.
  2. Locate closing cam on hinge assembly.
  3. Remove worn cam and install replacement.
  4. Tighten screws and test door closing action.
⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before working near hinge mechanisms.

Professional Repairs

Door Hinge Replacement or Realignment

Estimated Cost: $50–$200 for parts; $150–$400 labor

Vertical Hinged Seal or Mullion Mechanism Realignment

Estimated Cost: $60–$150 parts; $150–$300 labor

When to Call a Professional

Door remains misaligned after leveling and hinge adjustment
Visible hinge damage or broken components
Gasket replacement beyond simple cleaning
Electrical or structural issues affecting door operation

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean door gasket: Debris buildup affecting seal quality
    Frequency: monthly
  • Check and adjust leveling: Door misalignment due to settling or floor unevenness
    Frequency: annually
  • Inspect hinges for wear: Hinge wear leading to sagging doors
    Frequency: every 6 months

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Amana Refrigerator not closing properly?
Common causes include obstructions inside the fridge, worn closing cam mechanisms, or bent hinges affecting alignment.
How do I fix Amana Refrigerator not closing properly myself?
Start by removing obstructions, cleaning the door gasket, leveling the fridge, or adjusting the closing cam mechanism.
How much does it cost to fix not closing properly?
Professional repairs range from $50–$200 for parts and $150–$400 for labor, depending on the issue.
When should I call a technician for not closing properly?
If DIY solutions don't resolve the issue or if the problem involves complex components, it's time to call a technician.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

80%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Busted vertical hinge seal causing misalignment
  • Dirty or obstructed door gaskets preventing a tight seal
  • Misaligned doors due to loose or damaged hinges

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect the vertical hinge seal for damage. If busted, use epoxy or JB Weld to repair it, ensuring proper alignment before setting. Allow to cure completely.

  2. Clean the door gaskets with warm soapy water to remove dirt and debris. Check for any tears or damage and replace if necessary.

  3. Check the hinges for tightness. If loose, tighten screws. If damaged, replace the hinges to ensure proper door alignment.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. Possible to fix busted refrigerator door vertical hinge seal...

Community Discussions

left door not closing properly due to busted vertical hinge seal

Use epoxy or JB Weld to repair the busted plastic; ensure proper alignment before setting.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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