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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Unusual noises like loud vibrations or knocking could signal a failing compressor, while unnaturally quiet operation paired with cooling problems indicate potential issues with electronic components or the sealed refrigerant system.
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.
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.
But even if your refrigerator isn't under warranty, the good news is that the average cost of refrigerator repairs is between $200 to $400, which is significantly less than the cost of a new fridge. So, check that warranty before you make any decisions.
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.
To keep your fridge or freezer working properly, it's recommended to wait a few hours, at least 4-6 hours, before plugging it in after it's been moved.
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.
If you purchased a high-quality refrigerator for your home initially, you can expect that it will last anywhere from ten to twenty years with the right maintenance. This means that it might be time to think about replacing it once it hits the 15-year mark.
As with all appliances in the 21st century, antique and vintage fridges are typically worth a couple thousand dollars unrestored and a few thousand more when restored. Even restored refrigerators shouldn't be reaching the $10,000 mark, so if you see a listing with that steep of a price, you should head for the hills.
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.
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.
Condensation
One of the most obvious signs that you need to replace your refrigerator is if you see an unusual amount of condensation accumulating on the outside surface of the refrigerator or around the edges of the door.
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.
Frigidaire has built a solid reputation as a household name in the kitchen appliance industry. With a strong focus on energy efficiency and reliability, Frigidaire refrigerators offer exceptional quality and value for your money.