What's the most expensive repair on a refrigerator?

Author: Miss Noemi Wintheiser  |  Last update: Friday, July 11, 2025

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.

What is the most expensive repair on a refrigerator?

The Most Expensive Refrigerator Repair: Compressor Replacement. While there are many components within a refrigerator that could potentially fail, one of the most costly repairs is replacing the compressor.

What is the most expensive part of a refrigerator?

What's the most expensive repair on a refrigerator? With an average repair cost of $440, a refrigerator's control board is generally the most expensive part to repair. However, every situation is different. Repairs for refrigerator control boards can go from as low as $80 to as high as $800.

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.

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.

Best Appliances Recommended by a Repair Technician of 29 Years

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.

How do I know if the compressor in the fridge is broken?

What Are the Signs of a Bad Refrigerator Compressor?
  1. Your Refrigerator is Constantly Running. Does it seem like your refrigerator is running all the time? ...
  2. Your Energy Bill is Rising. ...
  3. It Doesn't Stay Cold. ...
  4. You Hear More Noise than Usual. ...
  5. The Circuit Breaker Trips. ...
  6. You Notice a Burning Smell. ...
  7. Refrigerator Problems?

What usually fails on a refrigerator?

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.

How much is a compressor for a refrigerator?

Installing a new refrigerator compressor costs about $450 on average, ranging between $300 and $400, in most cases. The cost for the compressor itself can run from $100 to $500, not including installation. When your refrigerator is running perfectly, you probably don't give its inner workings much thought.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a refrigerator?

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.

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.

Is it worth replacing a compressor on a refrigerator?

Over time, compressors may wear out or encounter mechanical issues, leading to decreased cooling efficiency or even complete failure. In some cases, it might be worth just replacing the compressor rather than investing in a brand-new refrigerator system.

How much does it cost to replace Freon in a refrigerator?

Most homeowners will pay in the range of $200 to $400 for a refill, depending on the type and size of their refrigerator unit. If you own a larger Subzero fridge, you may have to spend $500 or more.

What parts of a fridge are valuable?

The Compressor: The Heart of the Fridge

The compressor is responsible for circulating refrigerant to cool the refrigerator. It's not a part that fails very often or breaks down frequently, but when they do, it can add up to a hefty price or sometimes even cause a replacement.

How much does it cost to repair an ice maker in a refrigerator?

Some ice maker repairs cost as little as $75, while replacement units will run between $260 to $450. If multiple parts need to be repaired, it might make sense to replace the entire unit. There's nothing more disappointing than placing your cup under the ice maker only for it to not dispense any ice.

Is it worth repairing a 7 year old fridge?

If it's under 10 years old and the repair costs are less than half the price of a new one, repair is usually more cost-effective. For older models or those with expensive repairs, replacement may be the better long-term option due to improved energy efficiency and reliability.

What is the most common cause of refrigerator compressor failure?

One of the most common causes is a lack of lubrication. The compressor relies on oil to keep it running smoothly, and if the oil level gets too low, the compressor can overheat and break down. Another common cause of compressor failure is a build-up of dirt and dust.

What is the cost of a compressor in a fridge?

The price of a refrigerator compressor ranges from Rs 1500 to Rs 25k depending on the type, compressor technology, capacity, horsepower, voltage, application, brand, etc.

What is the lifespan of a refrigerator compressor?

The average lifespan of a commercial or industrial refrigeration system compressor can range anywhere from several years to nearly a decade, depending on the quality and maintenance history of the equipment. Generally, a high-quality, well-maintained compressor can last for up to 10 years or more.

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 is the life expectancy 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.

Why do most fridges stop working?

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.

Can a fridge work with a broken compressor?

Without a functioning compressor, your refrigerator would not be able to keep your food fresh and your drinks cold. So, knowing about the different components of a refrigerator compressor can not only help you understand how your fridge works but also help you troubleshoot any potential issues.

Which brand of refrigerator is the best?

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.

How do I reset a refrigerator compressor?

Shutting off the power to the refrigerator will give all of its systems—including the compressor—time to reset. Power down your refrigerator by unplugging it from the wall or shutting off the circuit breaker connected to the fridge. Leave the unit unplugged for five to ten minutes.

Previous article
What happens if you don't descale your Keurig?
Next article
Can you get sick from urine fumes?