The formation of water vapor on the outside of a refrigerator or freezer is usually caused by condensation. Condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes into contact with a cold surface, causing the water vapor in the air to turn into liquid water droplets.
Inside a refrigerator or freezer, the air is cooled down to low temperatures to preserve the food and maintain a cold environment. When you open the refrigerator or freezer door, warm air from the surrounding room enters, and if the surface of the appliance is colder than the dew point temperature of the incoming air, condensation can occur.
The dew point temperature is the temperature at which the air becomes saturated with moisture, and condensation begins to form. When the warm air contacts the cold surfaces of the refrigerator or freezer, such as the metal or glass exterior, it cools down rapidly, and its moisture content condenses onto the surface as water droplets.
Several factors can contribute to increased condensation on the outside of a refrigerator or freezer, including high humidity levels in the surrounding environment, frequent door openings, a faulty door seal that allows more warm air to enter, or a malfunctioning defrost system within the appliance.
To minimize condensation, you can ensure that the door seals are intact and functioning properly, reduce the frequency and duration of door openings, and maintain a moderate humidity level in the room where the refrigerator or freezer is located.