What causes ice to build up in a freezer?

Ice buildup in a freezer can be a nuisance, but simple changes in how the appliance is used often solve the problem.

The main cause is warm, humid air entering the freezer. This commonly happens when the door remains slightly open or is opened too often. Closing it properly and reducing unnecessary opening can help prevent ice from forming.

A freezer packed with too much food can also contribute. When items are pushed tightly together, cold air cannot circulate properly, causing some areas to freeze more heavily. The advice is to create space between items and remove food that is no longer needed.

Some freezers have a drain at the back to remove water produced during defrosting. If the drain becomes blocked, water can collect at the bottom and turn into a thick layer of ice. The freezer should be emptied, the drain cleaned and flushed with warm water, and the flow into the collection tray checked.

If ice quickly returns despite proper use and cleaning, the door seal or another part of the cooling and defrost system may be faulty. In that case, the article recommends calling a service technician.