Watch for warning signs like food spoiling prematurely, clicking or buzzing noises, continuous motor running, or excessive frost/condensation. Older units often cost more to repair than replace.
You likely need a new refrigerator if it is over 10–15 years old, runs constantly, makes loud noises, or cannot keep food cold, resulting in premature spoilage. Other major red flags include excessive sweating (condensation) inside or out, a hot motor, or if repairs cost more than 50% of a new unit.
According to the United States Department of Energy, refrigerators last approximately 12 years. At that point, it's likely time to replace it. Of course, if your refrigerator is not energy-efficient, you may want to consider replacing it before it stops working.
Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, soft cheeses, milk, eggs, leftovers, and deli items after 4 hours without power or 2 hours after the temperature rises above 41 °F. At any time, discard spoiled, moldy food and anything that does not look or smell right.
The compressor, coils and control board are the most expensive repairs. Your fridge's brand, model and size, plus your location, will impact repair costs. If your refrigerator is more than 6 years old and it will cost you more than half its original price to repair it, consider replacing it instead.
The Amish keep food cold using a variety of off-grid methods, tailored to the strictness of their local church district. Common practices include:
Which refrigerator brand is most reliable? All three of the appliance experts we spoke to for this roundup said Whirlpool and LG were the most reliable refrigerator brands due to their durability, reliability and ease of repairs. Samsung and GE were also mentioned by our experts as high-quality fridges.
What foods should not be refrigerated?
If your fridge stops working, act quickly to save your food. First, keep the doors closed to trap cold air. Next, check if it has power by testing the outlet or circuit breaker, and unplug the unit for 5 to 10 minutes to reset the system.
5 Foods to Avoid Refreezing
Watch for warning signs like food spoiling prematurely, clicking or buzzing noises, continuous motor running, or excessive frost/condensation. Older units often cost more to repair than replace.
Proper maintenance is a major factor in how long a refrigerator lasts. Neglecting routine cleaning (such as coils) or ignoring minor repairs can lead to serious issues that shorten the appliance's life. Older refrigerators often become less energy-efficient, consuming more electricity than newer models.
Both GE and Whirlpool are excellent, reliable refrigerator brands, but they cater to slightly different needs. Choose GE if you want advanced smart features and modern aesthetics, or Whirlpool if you prefer budget-friendly options, maximum interior space, and straightforward usability.
The best months to buy a refrigerator are May and November. May features major Memorial Day sales and is when manufacturers typically release new models, leading to clearance markdowns on older units. November offers the year's lowest prices during Black Friday and end-of-year clearance events.
Determine if your fridge is broken by checking the power and cooling, listening for unusual noises, and inspecting for common wear and tear. If your fridge is struggling to stay cold, there are several quick troubleshooting steps and clear warning signs to help diagnose the issue.
This depends on the cost of repairing the refrigerator and its value. If your refrigerator is more than 10 years old, it might be better to replace the appliance. While repairs might be cheaper, there's no guarantee that an old refrigerator won't wear out within a few months.
If your fridge seems to suddenly stop cooling, some common causes—listed from easiest to hardest to fix—can include:
As the USDA notes in Keeping Food Safe During an Emergency, your refrigerator will keep food safe for up to 4 hours during a power outage. Keep the door closed as much as possible. Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers after 4 hours without power.
The temperature in the fridge door fluctuates due to frequent opening and closing, which can reduce egg freshness. For optimal storage, keep eggs: In their original carton to protect them from absorbing odours and moisture.
No, neither ketchup nor mustard strictly needs to be refrigerated to remain safe to eat. Both are naturally high in acidity and vinegar, which acts as a preservative against bacteria and mold. However, manufacturers recommend refrigeration to maintain the best flavor, color, and texture.
Milk should be stored in the main body of the refrigerator on a lower or middle shelf toward the back, where temperatures are coldest and most consistent (around 37°F–38°F). Never store milk in the refrigerator door, as the frequent temperature fluctuations from opening and closing the door increase the risk of spoilage.
Compressor Replacement
As you might expect, the compressor is one of the most important parts of the refrigerator so it is one of the most expensive. While you can purchase the part yourself, it's not recommended that you try to replace it on your own.
Finding a truly "American-made" refrigerator requires checking specific models, as most major brands manufacture some units in Mexico or overseas. Brands like Whirlpool, Maytag, GE, Sub-Zero, and Frigidaire have significant U.S. manufacturing bases, but origin varies by style and price point.