How long does a fridge last?

Author: Ms. Savanna Cassin  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 9, 2025

According to the 23rd annual portrait of the U.S. appliance industry, standard refrigerators usually last anywhere from 10 to 18 years, with an average life expectancy of 14 years. Compact refrigerator lifespan is even shorter, ranging from 4 to 12 years with an average life expectancy of 8 years.

When should I replace my fridge?

Age: Most refrigerators last about 10 to 20 years. If your fridge is nearing or has surpassed this age, it may be time to consider a replacement. Frequent Repairs: If you find yourself calling for repairs multiple times a year or if the repair costs are accumulating, it might be more economical to invest in a new unit.

What is the average life expectancy of a refrigerator?

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.

How do I know if my fridge is dying?

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.

Is it worth repairing a 10 year old refrigerator?

However, if your fridge is under the fifteen-year mark, it's almost always worth the cost of repair. FYI: Most refrigerators can last between 10 to 20 years with regular maintenance, but even the best fridge can't last forever.

How long should a refrigerator last?

Is a 20 year old fridge safe?

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.

What is the longest lasting refrigerator brand?

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.

What goes bad first in a fridge?

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.

What is the most common fridge failure?

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.

How much is a fridge gas refill?

Fridge freezers repair and gas refilling on-site ,R400 for gas refill. 0646213749 call or WhatsApp Lesley for assistance.

How do you tell if your refrigerator is going out?

7 Signs Your Refrigerator Is Dying
  1. Your refrigerator is over 10 years old. ...
  2. You see excessive condensation on your food. ...
  3. Your food is going bad too quickly. ...
  4. Ice is building up in your freezer. ...
  5. Your refrigerator is leaking. ...
  6. The back of your refrigerator gets overly hot. ...
  7. Your refrigerator starts making strange noises.

Why do old fridges last longer?

The truth is that older appliances were often built with sturdier materials, like good ol' fashioned metal, instead of flimsy plastic. This means that they can withstand wear and tear much better than modern appliances.

What lasts in the fridge the longest?

The following is a full list of fruits and vegetables that will last the longest in your fridge or pantry!
  • POTATOES – 2-6 months.
  • SQUASH – 1-3 months.
  • APPLES – 2 months.
  • CITRUS – 1-2 months.
  • CELERY – 2 weeks.
  • CARROTS – 3-4 weeks.
  • CABBAGE – 4-6 weeks.
  • ONION – 2 months.

What shortens the life of a refrigerator?

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.

What is the most expensive thing to fix on a refrigerator?

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.

What brand of refrigerator has the least problem?

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.

How do you tell if a fridge has died?

7 Signs Your Fridge is Dying
  1. The Motor Runs Hot. It is not unusual for the back of your fridge to feel warm at the back. ...
  2. There is Excess Condensation. ...
  3. You Need to Frequently Defrost the Freezer. ...
  4. Your Fridge is More than 10 Years Old. ...
  5. It is Not Energy Efficient. ...
  6. Food is Going Bad Too Quickly. ...
  7. Your Fridge is Noisy.

What destroys a fridge compressor?

Another common cause of compressor failure is a build-up of dirt and dust. This can happen if the fridge isn't cleaned regularly or if there's a lot of dust in the air. Over time, the dirt and dust can clog up the compressor, causing it to overheat and break down.

What to throw out when the fridge died?

Discard refrigerated perishable food such as meat, poultry, fish, eggs, and leftovers after 4 hours without power. After a power outage never taste food to determine its safety.

Which brand of refrigerator is the best?

Our Top Pick: LG produces excellent refrigerators that perform well in our tests and receive high satisfaction ratings from consumers, including our survey participants. The Smart French Door Refrigerator with Dual Ice Maker stands out for its simple, user-friendly design and customizable features.

Why do you put mayonnaise in the fridge door?

Instead, you should “store it in your refrigerator door”, Hellmann's writes. Chef Molly Gordon told Southern Living that, due to the preservatives in the product, mayonnaise will survive the temperature fluctuations that come with opening and closing the fridge door.

What to avoid when buying a refrigerator?

Avoid these common mistakes to ensure you get the perfect fridge for your dream kitchen.
  • Choosing the Wrong Style. ...
  • Forgetting to Measure Your Space. ...
  • Skipping Door Swing Considerations. ...
  • Ignoring Energy Efficiency. ...
  • Overlooking the Importance of Finish and Style. ...
  • Focusing Only on Features You Don't Use.

What fridge will last 20 years?

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.

Which appliance brand has the least repairs?

Most Reliable / Least Serviced Appliance Brands
  • Maytag. Maytag appliances, made by the Whirlpool Corporation, is a household name known for dependable kitchen and laundry room appliances. ...
  • Jenn-Air. ...
  • Haier. ...
  • KitchenAid. ...
  • Bosch. ...
  • Samsung. ...
  • General Electric.

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