Why Is There Ice Buildup in Unexpected Areas? Common Causes and How to Fix It

Why Is There Ice Buildup in Unexpected Areas? Common Causes and How to Fix It

Wondering why ice is forming in awkward areas of your fridge? Ice buildup can decrease energy efficiency, damage components, and affect food storage. Here are the most common reasons this occurs and how to resolve each issue.

1. Check the Door Seals (Gaskets)

If your door isn’t sealing tightly, warm, moist air can seep in and cause condensation, leading to ice buildup in fridge interiors, especially near the door.

How to fix it:

• Inspect the door gaskets for cracks or gaps.
• Test the seal by closing the door on a piece of paper. If it slips out easily, the seal is weak.
• Clean the seals with warm, soapy water to restore grip.
• Replace damaged gaskets to prevent recurring frost issues.

2. Make Sure The Door Closes Properly

Even if a door is left slightly open, it can result in rapid ice buildup in fridge and freezer areas, particularly around vents and shelves.

How to fix it:

• Rearrange food so nothing blocks the door.
• Make sure bins and drawers slide in fully.
• Level the fridge if the door tends to swing open.

3. Check the Defrost Drain

A blocked defrost drain can cause water to pool and freeze at the bottom of the fridge or under drawers, leading to hidden ice buildup in fridge compartments.

How to fix it:

• Find the defrost drain (typically at the back bottom).
• Flush with hot water using a tool like a turkey baster.
• Use a soft brush or pipe cleaner to remove debris.
• Rinse with baking soda and warm water to avoid clogs.

4. Inspect the Temperature Settings

If your settings are too low, moisture can freeze on shelves or walls, increasing ice buildup in fridge zones that aren’t designed for frost.

How to fix it:

• Set your fridge temperature to 37°F–40°F (3°C–4°C); freezer at 0°F (-18°C).
• Avoid overly cold settings, especially in summer.
• Give it 24 hours to stabilize and monitor the result.

5. Defrost System Failure

When defrost components fail, frost can overwhelm the evaporator and spread, causing widespread ice buildup in fridge and freezer interiors.

How to fix it:

• Unplug and defrost the unit completely.
• Inspect the defrost heater, timer, and thermostat (or consult a professional).
• Replace any faulty components.

6. Frequent Door Openings or High Humidity

Frequent access or humid weather introduces moisture that can freeze on contact, resulting in ice buildup in fridge vents or under food containers.

How to fix it:

• Minimize how often and how long you open the fridge.
• Store liquids in airtight containers.
• Activate humidity controls if available.

7. Faulty Ice Maker or Water Line Leaks

Leaks from a malfunctioning ice maker can lead to area freezing and unexpected frost on the interior base or back wall.

How to fix it:

• Inspect all water line connections.
• Check if the ice maker is overfilling.
• Replace or tighten leaky components.
• Turn off the ice maker if it’s not in use.

8. Poor Air Circulation

Blocked vents or overloading can prevent even airflow, creating cold spots that encourage ice buildup in fridge corners or behind items.

How to fix it:

• Avoid packing the fridge too tightly.
• Keep air vents clear.
• Allow at least an inch of space between food and walls.