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.
A good refrigerator can last for years, but at some point all refrigerators begin to break down. Many factors go into deciding whether to repair or replace. Most refrigerators can last 10 to 20 years. Consider repair if it is less than 8 years old. If the refrigerator is more than 15 years old, consider replacing it.
A 20-year-old refrigerator could use 1,700 kWh of electricity every year, compared with about 450 kWh for a similarly sized new ENERGY STAR model. At an electrical cost of 12 cents per kWh, that represents a savings of $150 per year and a potential payback of about 7-9 years.
The average lifespan of a fridge is around 12 years; however, some refrigerators can last up to 20 years or more. This average lifespan varies across different refrigerator brands, the refrigerator's maintenance, and the homeowner's willingness to make repairs.
While repairing an old fridge freezer can seem like a cost-effective option, sometimes replacement is the better choice. Older models are generally less energy-efficient, which means higher utility bills.
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! Many factors influence how long freezers last, including maintenance and environmental factors.
Most refrigerators have a lifespan of about 10-15 years. If your fridge is older than 10 years, it may be time to consider replacing it, even if it's still working fine. Outdated refrigerators tend to exhibit lower energy efficiency, which can significantly impact your energy expenses.
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.
Disadvantages of refrigerators
Older models can consume significant electricity, increasing household expenses. Regular cleaning and servicing are essential to maintain efficiency, which adds to long-term costs.
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.
When you compare the embodied energy of a new refrigerator and the associated carbon emissions to the operating costs of an old refrigerator, it makes little sense to keep a fridge older than about a dozen years.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The costs can quickly add up for older models, particularly those requiring multiple components to be either replaced or repaired at once. Considering all the potential expenses associated with fixing a refrigerator, it may be more economical in the long run to purchase a new model rather than opting for repairs.
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.
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.
On average, an old refrigerator uses about 35% more energy than a model that has earned the ENERGY STAR label. If second refrigerator is truly needed, purchasing a larger refrigerator for the extra room will save money and energy over the long term.. Be certain to properly recycle the old refrigerator.
How Long Do Refrigerators Last on Average? 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.
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.
The lifespan of a typical fridge ranges from 10-15 years, and if you are still within the first half of this range, you should have plenty of time before needing to replace it. If it is on the upper end of that range, it's likely on its last legs.
One factor to consider is the age of your refrigerator. 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.
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 over 10 years old and repairs will cost more than 50% of a new model, replacement is usually the way to go. If it's under 5 years old and repairs are less than 30% of the cost of a new fridge, it's probably worth fixing.