Refrigerator Access Panel Leak - should it have a gasket?

[skodacanada]

Hi,

Very quick question - big rain, and big leak from the side access panel (to get at fridge guts).

The panel is just aluminum frame with an aluminum door with a typical twist lock. Should there be a rubber gasket (a la a car door) underneath/behind the panel door? I see there is a lip not unlike an older car that would fit some sort of rubber seal. If yes, any ideas where to buy one, and if no, how does one weatherproof and seal up door?

Thanks,
Chris

[skodacanada]

Also, should the upper vent above the fridge access door receive a good silicone seal? I don't see one, but it looks like many aren't sealed up.

Thanks again,
C

[Oz]

Typically, all exterior access panels didn't have any seals. 

[skodacanada]

Hi Mark,

Thanks. What prevents them from leaking then; being just a thin door with a light duty hinge?

[ClydesdaleKevin]

Because the louvers face down, and the door fits tight and is recessed, water shouldn't leak in unless there are heavy winds pushing the rain sideways.

You may very well be leaking through the roof vent if its not sealed properly.

Kev

[skodacanada]

You could be right.

I put two rubber gaskets around that side vent (which didn't fit tight anyways and one could easily see water whisking around it an I think there is some new water with today's rain.

I guess the next step would be the two roof vents, and if that's not it, perhaps the lip where the top meets the body...

[sasktrini]

On an RV or camper trailer, there is that putty tape between the body and the access frame, then it's trimmed and sealed.  Is it different with a camper van?  If you try this route, an RV supply place would have the tape and sealant.

[legomybago]

Yeah, any exterior penatration on an RV should have butyl putty tape used. Vents, access doors, water hook ups, etc...

http://www.amazon.com/Butyl-Window-Flange-Camper-Sealant/dp/B0070O93HA