High Repair Costs: If the cost of repairing your freezer is more than half the cost of a new one, replacement is usually the wiser financial decision.
Older models are more prone to breakdowns and might require frequent repairs. In contrast, a relatively new freezer might still have plenty of life left, making repairs a more cost-effective solution. Generally, if your freezer is less than ten years old, repairing it might be worth considering.
Compressor
The compressor is essential to a freezer's function and is often the most expensive part to replace, with a typical price range of $200 to $450.
On average, the life expectancy of a refrigerator-freezer or chest freezer is 16 years. Freezers typically last anywhere from 12 to 20 years. Along with gas and electric ranges, freezers tend to be the longest-lasting kitchen appliances. But that's not a guarantee!
1. Frost Buildup. One of the most prevalent issues with upright freezers is frost buildup. When frost accumulates on the freezer's interior walls or around the door seal, it can affect the appliance's efficiency and cause temperature fluctuations.
Food that won't stay frozen may be an obvious sign of a faulty freezer, but signs like excessive frost build-up on the walls or freezer-burnt food can also indicate unstable freezer temperatures. You may also notice your freezer making unusually loud humming, clicking or buzzing noises as parts struggle to operate.
If it's more than fifteen years old, it may not be worth repairing because the cost of parts and labor may be more than that of a new fridge. However, if your fridge is under the fifteen-year mark, it's almost always worth the cost of repair.
On average, they can last between 8-10 years, which still varies. There are many variables such as the type of compressor and maintenance schedules that can affect compressor failure rates.
Consider how much you want to spend on a freezer
The cost of a deep freezer can vary depending on the type and size of the appliance, as well as the variety of features offered. Typically, chest freezer prices can range from $500–$1,500, while upright freezers generally cost between $700–$2,500.
The compressor is much closer on a bottom freezer unit, so it can be harder to keep heat out. As reported by the U.S. Department of Energy, top freezers use about 10 to 25 percent less energy than bottom freezers, which helps reduce your energy bill, electricity consumption, and carbon footprint.
Fixing a freezer is generally more expensive than fixing a fridge because it's a more technologically complex appliance. Expect to pay between $90 and $650 for most freezer repairs.
Specific Appliance Considerations
For refrigerators, it is advisable to repair if they are less than 10 years old and the repair cost is reasonable. However, if they are over 10 years old, inefficient, or have a major component failure like the compressor, replacement is the better option.
Fixing a refrigerant leak typically costs between $100 and $440.
Can you claim for a new freezer? It depends. If your freezer has stopped working permanently because of accidental damage, you can possibly make a claim. However, if your freezer breaks down due to age, you need to buy a new one.
The average lifespan of a freezer
A freezer will typically last between 12-20 years, depending on maintenance and quality.
Key takeaways
The best time to buy appliances is generally during big holiday sales, like those held over Fourth of July and Black Friday weekends, when stores offer deals that can save you hundreds.
If you've ever moved a fridge freezer, or even bought one brand new, you'll know that you are meant to give them time to settle once they've been put back down again. Waiting 24 hours before plugging in your fridge prevents compressor damage and ensures proper oil circulation.
Temperature Too Warm
If the freezer is freezing but your ice cream seems to soft, check the temperature setting is correct. The recommended setting for a freezer is 0°F (-18°C). The freezer should be operated in an environment between 55°F (13°C) and 110°F (43°C).
Some causes may be simple, like crowding items or dirty condenser coils, and other causes may require professional repair, like a broken evaporator fan. To avoid losing your frozen meats, veggies, and leftovers to the thaw, check out these troubleshooting tips to help keep your freezer at the ideal temperature.
Freezer compressor replacement costs between $250 and $650. The compressor keeps the temperature balanced in the freezer by moving coolant, or freezer gases, through the freezer unit. If the compressor malfunctions, it may be unable to achieve the desired temperatures or have uneven temperatures in different sections.