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Why Is My Refrigerator Sweating?

Have you ever gone to make yourself a snack or grab a drink from the fridge only to open the door to a soggy mess? You notice drips of water on the shelves. There’s condensation in and around the bottom of the fridge.

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You may be worried your appliance is on the fritz. However, a refrigerator sweating usually isn’t as serious as it looks.

Why Is There Condensation in My Fridge?

A small amount of refrigerator sweating is normal. Warmer air from outside the fridge creates moisture on the inside. When the moist air meets the cold shelves and the inside of the door, that moisture turns into water. If you have a large family and the door is open and shut frequently, it can lead to a humid refrigerator and items in the refrigerator sweating. There are other reasons you may notice moisture inside your fridge:

  • Poor door seals. Faulty door seals allow warm air to leak inside your fridge. This can lead to a buildup of condensation.
  • Overloaded fridge. If your fridge is too full, the air can’t flow properly, which causes high humidity levels.
  • Faulty thermostat. If you notice food isn’t as cold, or the temperature inside your fridge keeps rising, it could indicate a faulty thermostat.
  • Hot climate. If you live in an area where it’s unusually warm, it’s more common to find a buildup of condensation inside your fridge.

How Do I Stop Condensation in My Fridge?

Once you understand why it’s happening, you may be able to stop your refrigerator sweating and prevent a repair call.

  • Limit the number of times you open the door. When you do open the door, don’t stand with it open for extended periods while you try to find a snack.
  • Examine the door seals to make sure they aren’t cracked or damaged. Worn-out seals can cause food to sweat in the refrigerator and make your fridge work harder. When your fridge works overtime, it can cause an increase in energy costs.
  • Use a small outdoor thermometer to check the interior refrigerator temperature and adjust as needed. According to the USDA, the ideal temperature for the inside of your fridge is 40 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Clean out your fridge and throw away expired and unnecessary items. Organize the contents in a way that air can circulate freely between items.
  • Avoid placing hot leftovers in the fridge. Allow the items to cool before putting them inside.

Why Is the Food in My Refrigerator Sweating?

If you have high levels of condensation on the inside of your fridge, you may notice that not only is your refrigerator sweating, but the food packages seem to sweat, too. It’s typically the same condensation effect causing this. When you place leftovers on a shelf, let them cool to room temperature first. If you place warm containers, it can cause moisture and then water to form. Also, wrap items carefully in foil or place them inside a plastic storage bag. Uncovered foods tend to release more humidity, which can result in sweating.

Some refrigerators have humidity control levels in certain drawers. Placing produce and other fresh food in high-humidity areas can sometimes lead to sweating.

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Why Is There Condensation Outside of My Fridge?

A refrigerator sweating on the inside tends to be more concerning than moisture on the outside. Occasionally, you may notice the outside of your fridge is wet to the touch, and here’s why.

  • Door seals. Split, cracked or broken door seals can cause water inside and on the outside of the fridge.
  • High-room humidity. If your kitchen is warm or humid, it can cause the exterior of the fridge to feel moist if the surface is much colder.
  • Damaged insulation. Older refrigerators or ones with damaged insulation may allow cold air to leak. This can cause exterior moisture buildup.

How Do I Stop Condensation on the Outside of My Fridge?

A few simple adjustments to your fridge are usually all that’s needed to eliminate exterior moisture. Start by placing a portable dehumidifier near the fridge to reduce humidity in the room. Make sure there’s at least 1 inch of space between your fridge and surrounding walls for maximum airflow. Finally, open the doors and inspect the seals. If you notice any damage, replacing the seals can make a huge difference. If you think insulation may be a culprit, contact a professional to schedule a repair.

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