Estimates range in terms of how long fridges last; some sources say 10 years while others say as long as 25 years. According to the United States Department of Energy, refrigerators last approximately 12 years. At that point, it's likely time to replace it.
“Refrigerators are built to last, and the need to replace a refrigerator varies with how the product is being used and cared for over time,” says Rebecca Cottrell of BSH Home Appliances. The average lifespan for refrigerators ranges from 10 to 14 years, she says.
But, as a good rule of thumb, if you have multiple faulty parts or if your refrigerator is over ten years old, it is probably time to replace it. Consumer Reports recommends replacing your refrigerator if the cost to repair it is more than half the price of buying a new one.
If your 20-year-old fridge has been running well, and only needs minor repairs once in a while, then it is worth keeping it, instead of replacing it. Though, if it ends up needing a major repair, then you should think about replacing the fridge.
A refrigerator lifespan is between 10 and 20 years, depending on the model, usage, and level of maintenance.
Older Appliances Were Designed to Last
The parts were simple and easy to fix, so people could keep their appliances running for much longer than they can today. Unlike modern appliances, which have complex electronics and computerized components that can be expensive to repair or replace.
Some of the most long-lasting refrigerator brands come from GE, LG, and Bosch. These refrigerators come at different price points, whether you are looking for a standard model or high-end appliance.
Older refrigerators may not be worth the cost of repair, especially if you're experiencing recurring issues. Most fridges last 10 to 15 years, and upgrading to a newer and possibly more energy-efficient model may be more cost-effective.
If your fridge is making more noise than usual, it could be a sign that it is dying. This could be due to a failing motor, compressor, or broken fan blade. If you notice increased noise, it's important to have a qualified technician inspect the fridge.
How much are you paying to keep your refrigerator running? In most cases, refrigerators manufactured before 1993 cost over $65 more per year to operate than new ENERGY STAR qualified models. Refrigerators manufactured before 1980 can cost about $200 more per year.
Compressor Issues
The compressor is like the heart of your fridge. If it breaks, it's one of the most expensive parts to replace. Fixing a compressor can cost anywhere from $200 to $650.
Age of the Fridge: If your fridge is over ten years old, has major problems, or is just past its refrigerator lifespan, then it might be time to upgrade it. Warranty Status: Check if your fridge is still under warranty, which could cover some repair costs.
Buying a new refrigerator altogether might be more cost effective than repeated maintenance and replacement for your fridge's compressor as your refrigerator gets older. A new refrigerator might just be cheaper than several compressor replacements!
For example, overloading the fridge with too much food can put extra strain on the motor, which will cause it to work harder and potentially fail sooner. Similarly, frequently opening and closing the fridge door can also lead to premature wear and tear.
But if your refrigerator seems to be “running” all the time, then the appliance is working too hard. While having a refrigerator that works overtime might give the impression the appliance is especially robust, it's actually an indication that something could be wrong with your refrigerator parts.
While your old refrigerator may still look good and work well, if it is more than 15 years old, it's more than likely using a significant amount of energy -- in fact, more than twice the energy of a new ENERGY STAR certified model.
Milk has been named the item most likely to expire in the fridge, according to new research. A survey of 2,000 Americans has revealed that 46 percent say they've been caught by a sour scent in their bottle or carton.
The three most common reasons for failures that we see as a result of wear & tear are a mechanically locked compressor, failure of the fan motor, and dirty condenser coils. The refrigerator's compressor is the heart of the cooling system; without a working compressor the refrigerator cannot function.
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.
If your fridge is not cooling or maintaining the correct temperature, it's a clear sign of trouble. Food spoiling quickly or a noticeable difference in the fridge's internal temperature are indicators. This could be due to a malfunctioning thermostat, blocked vents, or a failing compressor.
But like all appliances, they have a limited lifespan, and knowing how long refrigerators last can help you plan for replacements and avoid inconvenient breakdowns. On average, a refrigerator's lifespan is 10 to 15 years, though its longevity depends on factors such as maintenance, brand quality, and usage habits.
Unmatched Reliability: Sub-Zero refrigerators are built to last over 20 years, almost double the lifespan of a typical fridge. Their robust construction means fewer breakdowns and less hassle, saving you time and money in the long run.
Top selling refrigerators in India
Popular options include brands like LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool, known for their reliability and performance. A good refrigerator in India typically comes with energy-saving technologies, spacious interiors, and smart temperature controls, catering to diverse needs.