Choosing the right gasket material is essential to ensuring a reliable seal, maintaining food safety, and extending the lifespan of your refrigeration or heating equipment. At CoolerGaskets.com, we manufacture gaskets in three primary materials — PVC, Santoprene, and Silicone — each designed for different temperature ranges and environments.
Below, we’ll explain the differences so you can select the right gasket for your application with confidence.
PVC Gaskets
Best for: Standard commercial coolers and refrigerators
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) is the most common and cost-effective gasket material used in commercial refrigeration. It’s durable, flexible, and compatible with most cooler and refrigerator models.
Features:
- Suitable for standard temperature applications (typically 32°F to 150°F)
- Widely available in nearly all common profiles and styles
- Excellent flexibility and easy installation
- Ideal for low- to moderate-use environments
Consider if: You’re replacing a gasket in a standard reach-in or undercounter refrigerator or a cooler door that isn’t exposed to extreme temperatures.
Note: While PVC is durable, it can become brittle over time, especially in very cold or high-traffic environments.
Santoprene Gaskets
Best for: Heavy-use environments, freezers, and mixed-temperature units
Santoprene is a thermoplastic elastomer (TPE) that combines the flexibility of rubber with the chemical resistance and durability of plastic. It’s an excellent upgrade over PVC for high-demand or low-temperature environments.
Features:
- Performs well across a wide temperature range (-40°F to 275°F)
- Resists cracking and hardening in cold conditions
- Excellent resistance to oils, cleaning agents, and moisture
- Longer lifespan than PVC in demanding commercial kitchens
Consider if: Your equipment is subject to constant door openings, low freezer temperatures, or rigorous cleaning schedules.
Note: Santoprene is more expensive than PVC but offers superior long-term value thanks to its extended service life.
Silicone Gaskets
Best for: Extreme temperature applications (from freezers to ovens)
Silicone gaskets are the premium choice for operations requiring high durability and broad temperature tolerance. They perform reliably in both freezing and high-heat conditions, making them suitable for specialized equipment beyond standard refrigeration.
Features:
- Handles extreme temperatures from -80°F to 450°F
- Maintains flexibility and sealing integrity even under heat stress
- Resistant to chemicals, UV light, and environmental aging
- Non-toxic and safe for food-contact applications
Consider if: You need a gasket for a blast freezer, proofing cabinet, warming cabinet, or oven door.
Note: Silicone gaskets are the most expensive option, but their durability and versatility make them ideal for industrial or high-heat applications.
How to Choose the Right Material
|
Environment / Application |
Recommended Material |
Temperature Range |
Durability |
|
Standard refrigerator or cooler |
PVC |
32°F to 150°F |
Good |
|
Heavy-use refrigerator or freezer |
Santoprene |
-40°F to 275°F |
Excellent |
|
Extreme cold or heat (freezers, ovens) |
Silicone |
-80°F to 450°F |
Superior |
Additional Considerations
- Check your equipment specifications. Most OEM manuals list the recommended gasket material for your model.
- Consider your cleaning routine. If you use strong sanitizers or wash down frequently, Santoprene or Silicone may hold up better than PVC.
- Frequency of use matters. The more often doors open, the faster gaskets wear. Higher-grade materials can reduce long-term replacement costs.
