Problem

This Kenmore freezer in Cupertino had filled with frost. Food was blocking the airflow, and the door could not close completely.

What we found

The ice buildup was tied to blocked airflow and a door left short of its seal. Warm, humid air was getting inside. Frost covered the upper compartment and collected around the stored food.

The repair

We defrosted the freezer, cleared and cleaned its drain line, and cleaned the door gasket and sealing surfaces. We also removed the airflow obstructions.

After the work

The door-closing problem was corrected, and we checked the seal and freezer operation. Leave room around the vents and check that packages cannot hold the door open.

Frost around food and shelves in the crowded freezer