Is it cheaper to buy or repair a refrigerator?

Author: Tressie Pollich  |  Last update: Wednesday, December 17, 2025

If the fridge isn't too old, repairs can often be relatively inexpensive — assuming they are covered under warranty — while potentially saving hundreds of dollars compared to purchasing a new unit.

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.

Is it worth getting a refrigerator repaired?

If the refrigerator is relatively new or still under warranty, it is often best to repair it in order to save money. However, if the refrigerator is old, the cost of repairs may outweigh the cost of a new one. In this case, it may be better to replace it.

Is it cheaper to buy a new fridge or fix it?

A good rule of thumb: if the repair is going to cost more than 50% of the cost of a new refrigerator, it is more economical to replace it. Another factor to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your refrigerator is its Eco-friendliness.

What is the average lifespan 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.

Is it cheaper to fix a refrigerator or buy a new one?

What brand of refrigerator will last the longest?

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.

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.

What is the most reliable fridge brand?

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 is the most common repair on a refrigerator?

7 Common Refrigerator Repair Problems [2025]
  1. Frost accumulation. Frost buildup is a common issue you will encounter with refrigerators. ...
  2. Continuous refrigeration cycle. ...
  3. Water leakage. ...
  4. Refrigerator not cooling. ...
  5. Loud noises. ...
  6. Water dispenser malfunctioning. ...
  7. Refrigerator freezing instead of cooling.

Is it cheaper to buy a new fridge or replace the compressor?

While refrigerator compressors can be expensive, usually falling between $200 and $650 with an average of $375, the total pales in comparison to the several thousand dollars you'd spend on a new fridge. If your fridge is nearing the end of its life anyway, consider a full replacement.

How much do they charge to fix a refrigerator?

How Much Does Refrigerator Repair Cost on Average? In general, the national average for fridge repair is between $300 and $1,000, but prices could range from $200 and up to $1,300 or more, depending on what's wrong. The cost of refrigerator repair depends more on the problem than the size or style of your fridge.

What makes a refrigerator go bad?

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.

Who has the longest warranty on a refrigerator?

Excellent Warranty Program

Everest offers the best warranty in the industry. All refrigerators and freezers are backed with a 3-year parts and labor warranty and a 5-year compressor warranty.

How to tell if a fridge compressor is bad?

A hum or a slight buzz is typical, but if your refrigerator starts making strange or loud noises, the compressor might be struggling. Professional Repair Required: Compressors have numerous components, and diagnosing the source of the noise can be complicated.

What is the most expensive part of a refrigerator?

Also, the compressor itself is one of the most expensive parts of a refrigerator. It's a crucial component in the cooling system, and as such, manufacturers invest a lot in its design and construction.

Why is my fridge not getting cold?

There are several causes for a refrigerator that doesn't cool, including dirty condenser coils, poor ventilation, improper installation, faulty or dirty gasket seals, unorganized food storage, appliance location and malfunctioning internal parts.

What is the typical lifespan of a refrigerator?

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.

What is the first thing to check when a refrigerator stops working?

The first thing you should do is check if the power supply to your refrigerator is working properly. Make sure that none of the plugs or wiring are loose or damaged, and check that the power outlet is still functional. If everything looks fine on that front, then it could be a problem with the refrigerator itself.

What are the common faults in refrigerators?

Many refrigerator problems stem from issues with condenser or evaporator fans, water supply issues, door seals, or temperature settings. If you can't identify the problem after checking these areas, call in a service professional to help diagnose the issue.

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.

Which is the No 1 brand of refrigerator?

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.

When should you not fix a refrigerator?

However, if the refrigerator is old, the cost of repairs may outweigh the cost of a new one. In this case, it may be better to replace it. If it is more than 10 years old, it may be difficult to find replacement parts and repairs may be more expensive than purchasing a new refrigerator.

Who has the best refrigerator?

Popular Top-Rated refrigerators
  • LG - 27.7 Cu. Ft. ...
  • Bosch - 800 Series 20.5 Cu. Ft. ...
  • Samsung - 26.7 cu. ft. ...
  • Samsung - 25 cu. ft. ...
  • LG - Standard-Depth MAX 30.7 Cu. Ft. ...
  • Ft. 4-Door French Door Smart Refrigerator with Dual-Dispense AutoFill Pitcher - Stainless Steel. ...
  • Samsung - 32 cu. ft. ...
  • Whirlpool - 19.4 Cu.

Is it better to replace compressor or buy new fridge?

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!

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