Quck answer
Repairing plastic in a refrigerator can be done using a few simple steps. First, clean the damaged area with soap and water. Then, sand the area gently to create a smooth surface. Next, apply a plastic adhesive or epoxy to the damaged area, following the instructions on the product. Allow the adhesive to dry completely. Finally, sand the repaired area again to ensure a seamless finish. With these steps, you can easily repair the plastic in your refrigerator and extend its lifespan.
Most refrigerator interiors are made of plastic, which is a durable and affordable material that manufacturers prefer. However, plastic can break over time, and finding replacement parts for older refrigerators can be a hassle and expensive. Many manufacturers discontinue their models after a few years, making it tough to find replacement parts. To fix damaged plastic parts that are hard to replace, use acrylic solvent cement and some simple techniques.
Step 1
Remove the damaged part. Most of the parts that break can be easily removed from the refrigerator. If you can’t remove the part, empty the contents of the refrigerator. Don’t use solvent cements in a refrigerator that has any food products. If you’re repairing a part that can’t be removed, unplug the refrigerator.
Step 2
Wash the damaged area thoroughly with a mixture of four teaspoons of concentrated dish washing detergent and 16 ounces of hot water. Stress cracks are the most common type of damage to plastic refrigerator parts. Use an old toothbrush to scrub the crack and surrounding area. Dry with a cotton rag.
Step 3
Fill the squeeze bottle applicator halfway with acrylic solvent cement. Although acrylic solvent cement was initially designed for bonding acrylic, it works on most plastics used for refrigerator parts. Using your thumb and index finger, squeeze the sides of the bottle until the cement level rises to the top of the bottle. Slightly release the pressure, and a vacuum will form to prevent the cement from spilling when the bottle is tipped.
Step 4
Apply a thin bead of solvent cement directly into the crack. Capillary action will draw the cement into the crack. Let the cement dry for 30 minutes and repeat the process. Solvent cement fuses the plastic together through a chemical reaction, creating a strong bond. If the crack is large or requires reinforcement, move on to Step Five.
Step 5
Cut a piece of scrap polycarbonate to cover the crack. Use 1/16-inch-thick polycarbonate, which can be cut with heavy scissors or a utility knife. Cut a piece large enough to cover the crack and extend at least half an inch around the crack. Apply solvent cement to the scrap polycarbonate, covering its surface. Place the cemented side of the polycarbonate against the crack, let it dry for 30 minutes, and you’re done.