Both upright and chest freezers can last an average of 10 to 15 years. To make your freezer last longer and live its best life make sure the unit gets proper ventilation, don't overload it with food and keep it set at a consistent temperature. Do some maintenance, too. Yes, freezer maintenance is real.
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.
According to Gifam, a household freezer has an average lifespan of about 13 years.
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.
Once you start noticing freezer burn, frost build up or clumps of ice in your freezer, then you should know that your freezer is no longer functioning properly. Your fridge may have an issue with the temperature. It may be getting too cold or may be warming up and then cooling down.
Deciding whether to repair or replace a freezer depends on factors like age, repair costs, and frequency of breakdowns. Repairing a freezer can save money, preserve food quality, and enhance energy efficiency. When repair costs exceed the freezer's value or it becomes outdated, replacing it might be the better option.
Problems with the freezer's electronic control board, cold control thermostat, defrost timer, or compressor can all result in a freezer that does not run or runs improperly.
The last major difference between the two is their average lifespan. Chest freezers often have a longer lifespan than upright freezers as they have less issues with overheating and leakage.
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.
Because the compressor is on the exterior of the unit, exceptionally cold temperatures may cause a build-up of ice or reduce the viscosity of the oils used to lubricate moving parts. Any of these may result in compressor failure or malfunction resulting in a costly repair.
Both upright and chest freezers can last an average of 10 to 15 years. To make your freezer last longer and live its best life make sure the unit gets proper ventilation, don't overload it with food and keep it set at a consistent temperature.
Your freezer should last an average of 10–15 years. Depending on how you use it, take care of it, and store it, your freezer might even last a little longer.
Frigidaire manufactures their appliances in various locations, including the USA, Mexico, Italy, and China.
Signs that Your Freezer is Dying
Spoilage – A properly functional freezer will keep the foods in good condition for a long time. If the food starts rotting before its expiration date, the freezer isn't working efficiently and needs repairs.
A freezer is worth fixing when the appliance is less than 10 to 15 years old, or when the repair cost is less than 50% of the price of a new one. If multiple parts have broken, then replacing it is typically more cost-efficient.
Too Much or Too Little Load. A low load on the refrigerator's evaporator and a heavier load in the refrigerating chamber can both lead to issues with the compressor. Running an empty fridge for a longer period of time and having a lot of ice in the freezer chamber are oftentimes to blame.
Unusual noises or erratic temperature changes: Strange sounds or fluctuating temperatures indicate that your freezer may need professional attention. Increased energy bills: If you notice a sudden spike in your energy costs, it could be due to a malfunctioning freezer working overtime to maintain its 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.
Compressor Problems: Your freezer's compressor could work overtime, causing rattling or buzzing noises. Ice Buildup: A buildup of ice can cause a symphony of cracks and pops as the freezer works.
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.
Echoing this recommendation by appliance manufacturer Whirlpool, the representative told us, “75-80% full as a best operating condition seems reasonable, though it'd really depend on the air flow and spacing.” That is, in order to keep your freezer working properly, you need to keep food from blocking the air vents, ...