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.
Fridges and freezers with older compressors will physically last longer than new ones. This is because the components in the system were physically more robust than what's used today. The same goes for something like an air conditioner, which is a refrigeration system. Older systems lasted longer.
In the late 90s, the overall average (not best) figure was ~850 kWh/yr and from the early 2000s (20 years ago), it was ~550kWh/yr. A 15-20 year old average fridge is about 35% less energy efficient (550/400 - 1) than the best modern fridges.
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.
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.
Depreciation per year: $750 / 15 years (expected lifespan) = $50 Life left: 15 - 5 = 10 years Value: 10 years x $50 = $500 If the refrigerator is in excellent condition and there's high demand in your area, you might price it around $500.
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.
Not that long ago, the common household refrigerator consumed a significant amount of energy. The demand for dramatic improvements in efficiency began in response to the oil and energy crises of the 1970s when refrigerators typically cost about $1,300 (adjusted for inflation), a hefty price to pay for an energy waster.
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.
One major culprit is the switch from mechanical to electrical systems powering the appliances. “There are a lot more sensors in appliances,” says Darin Williams, owner of Reliable Appliance in Anchorage. “Now, you have digital integration into motors versus strictly mechanical motors.
On average, an old refrigerator uses about 35% more energy than a model that has earned the ENERGY STAR label.
Heating and cooling: 45-50%
The largest electricity consumer in the average household is your heating and cooling appliance. By a long shot. Central air conditioners and heaters use tons of energy in order to keep your home set to the right temperature.
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.
Reliability: Old washing machines are typically built to last and are known for their durability.
Appliances are made more and more often out of plastic than steel, which means the gaps between pieces are smaller than ever. When you cut down the amount of space between pieces and cut down on the stability of those pieces, you're looking at a much larger number of components that can break during daily use.
While your old refrigerator may still look good and work well, if it is more than 15 years old, it's more than likely using a significant amount of energy -- in fact, more than twice the energy of a new ENERGY STAR certified model.
In today's dollars, a dozen eggs would have cost about $6.40 in 1937, and about $8.16 in 1947, according to government figures obtained by The Daily Meal. The price fell to $4.36 in today's dollars by 1969 and $1.90 in 1985.
While there were electric refrigerators in the early 1900s, it wasn't until the 1920s and 1930s that refrigerator technology improved and they became more affordable and therefore more common in homes. Some ice boxes remained in use until World War II, but by the 1950s they mostsly melted away into history.
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.
Check with Your State Energy Office or Local Electric Utility. Local utilities and energy-efficiency organizations support a growing number of refrigerator and freezer recycling programs. Some programs offer cash to recycle your old fridge; others offer utility bill credits. Ask about Municipal Pick-Up of Appliances.
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.
We've compared old and new refrigerators, learning that it's a good idea to retire old refrigerators after about 12 years.