How Long Does A Refrigerator Last is the first question when shopping for a new or used fridge. How long has this family been making use of the eco-friendly fridge? It depends on various factors, so it’s hard to say how long a refrigerator freezer will last.
Publican Anker draws on real-life experience to identify the problems that can cause your current fridge freezer to fail. To avoid these cases, read the article.
How Long Does A Refrigerator Last?
Refrigerators have a much longer lifespan than other homes quietest appliances. The National Association of Home Builders reports that the typical lifespan of a refrigerator is 13 years. This is longer than freezers and dishwashers.
The lifespan of your refrigerator will vary depending on its type and size, maintenance habits, and many other factors where you put your fridge in your kitchen.
Is it possible to expect your fridge to last legs for a long time? Here are the facts.
The Average Lifespan Of A Refrigerator
The National Association of Home Builders and Bank of America (NYSE BAC) study shows that a standard fridge can last 13 years. The lifespan of compact refrigerators (trash compactors), also known as mini-fridges, is less than nine years.
This is the only average fridge. Your fridge may last longer or for a shorter time. According to the report, the life expectancy of an appliance repair is affected by how much use it gets.
How To Help Your Refrigerator Last Longer?
These are the steps to maintain your fridge properly.
1. Clean the condenser coils at least every six months
Condenser coils can attract dirt, dust, and buildup over time, especially if you have pets. This can affect their ability to cool your fridge.
These should be cleaned regularly using a vacuum cleaner and the attachment hose on your vacuum. They are usually under the fridge, behind a clip-on plate or grate. The frost-free model may have them in the back.
2. Clean and lubricate the door seals
Your fridge’s seals (and the one in your freezer) keep cold air circulation from escaping. However, like the coils, dirt and grime can cause them to stop doing their job. Use a warm water supply line and soap to clean your door seals.
Also, inspect your energy-star-rated refrigerator seals for tears or broken multiple faulty parts and replace them as necessary. It is a good idea to lubricate the seals, which helps keep them elastic and flexible.
3. Clean out the vents
The interior vents in your fridge circulate cool air through the new unit. These vents can sometimes become blocked by food, liquid, dirt, or other debris, reducing the fridge’s ability to cool air evenly.
These vents should be inspected regularly. To remove any obstructions, use a warm, damp rag.
4. Change out your water filter often
Set a reminder to change your refrigerator’s water filter at least once every six months if it has one. This ensures that your water supply and its ice maker are bacteria-free.
This prevents the buildup of bacteria that can permanently damage your water dispenser or ice maker.
5. Make sure the fridge is level
If the fridge can be tipped downwards on any corner, it is not slightly on level flooring. This can damage the motor and reduce its lifespan. Adjust the feet so that the unit is perfectly level.
This will ensure a long life span. You may need to place a leveler on the feet while adjusting them.
6. Give it plenty of space
Give your fridge lots of space if you can. Keep your fridge at least two inches from each side. Avoid putting heavy items on top.
Refrigerators require plenty of cold air flow for optimal energy efficiency. If you close your refrigerator tightly with cabinets or other items, it can restrict that flow and decrease its operating capacity.
7. Spot issues early
You should immediately address any problems with your fridge. A professional should be contacted immediately if you notice unusual noises, decreased cooling capabilities, or problems with your ice maker or drinking water filter.
A problem with the supply line or puddles around the fridge can also be a sign of trouble and should be evaluated.
Here’s a quick reminder:
Do not attempt to fix refrigerator-related problems alone. Even if your handy skills are impressive, DIY repairs can cause irreparable damage.
If you suspect something is wrong with your refrigerator, it’s best to call an appliance potential repair cost professional immediately.
9 Obvious Signs You Need a New Refrigerator
1. Excessive Condensation
Your fridge might seem to be sweating during a heatwave. This could indicate that your refrigerator compressor is not cooling properly.
You should immediately inspect the rubber sealing around your door if you notice any water droplets, mold, or mildew. You may be able to repair it, depending on the sealing state.
There may be signs of condensation inside your fridge. Your thermostat is malfunctioning if you see this. If this continues for a long time, your food may begin to spoil if the temperature setting is not correct.
2. The Motor’s Running Hot
It is common to feel a warmer temperature change when you touch the refrigerator. Your fridge’s coils are insulated, so you don’t feel too hot.
If you see this in your fridge, contacting a repair technician to check your coils is a good idea. You might consider replacing the coils depending on the circumstances and the nature of the problem.
If you own an older fridge showing signs of fading, it might be worth purchasing a new one and continuing to repair the less efficient one.
3. Your Food Is Rapidly Spoiling
A sign your fridge is at risk is when your food starts to smell or spoil faster than it would normally. You might also notice that a 6-pack of beer takes longer to cool in your fridge.
If your fridge takes longer to cool down your food or fails to maintain its current temperature, it is using more energy. This is a huge waste of energy bill. If your fridge isn’t cooling correctly, you’re wasting food and paying more for electricity than necessary.
4. Your Freezer Has Become a Winter Wonderland
One of the most blatant indicators is if your freezer is beginning to resemble an iceberg. Although you want your freezer to freeze your food, it is not normal to have to break the ice off to reach your peas.
If this happens to you, you should first defrost your freezer. Please confirm its functionality thereafter by turning it on again. If the problem persists, a new refrigerator may be in order.
This problem is less common as many modern units now have an automatic defrosting feature. No matter how old or new your refrigerator is, this is still an issue that needs fixing right now.
An alternative solution is to purchase an additional freezer to store frozen items. This will solve your iceberg problem and save you much money over the long term.
5. Your Fridge Is More Than 10 Years Old
Refrigerators can last between 10 and 20 years. It is more expensive to repair a refrigerator that is older than it is. The cost of repairs eventually will outweigh the cost of replacing the unit.
It’s a good idea to save money and shop for a replacement fridge if it is over ten years old.
This is a sign that the fridge’s life is decreasing and may go out at any moment. You may feel like you’re spending too much, but think about how much money you’ll save in the long run by avoiding costly repairs.
6. You Have a Side-by-Side Fridge
It’s also important to know what type of new fridge you have to recognize signs it is time for a new one. It’s time for a new side-by-side fridge if it is more than five years old and needs constant repairs.
Bottom freezers should be replaced every seven years, and any faulty top freezers repaired after seven years.
7. Your Fridge Isn’t Energy Efficient
Inefficient home appliances could be the cause of higher energy utility bills lately. The new Energy Star refrigerators are more efficient than older fridges. An energy-efficient fridge is a win for both your wallet and the planet.
When shopping for a new refrigerator, it’s important to consider both the brand and the specific models available.
If they are well maintained, manual defrost refrigerators use less energy star than automatic defrost units. A new fridge with a freezer on its top uses less energy than a freezer at the bottom.
8. You Notice a Good Deal on a Fridge
If your fridge is over 10 years old, it’s probably time to replace it. This assumes you have thoroughly researched and compared comparable rights-reserved models.
It may seem like you are wasting money. However, you should be aware that the older your refrigerator gets, the more it will cost to repair and the less efficiently it will function.
Instead of waiting for your fridge’s inevitable breakdown at the worst time and leaving you vulnerable to salespeople, grab a great deal as soon as possible. When it comes time to replace your fridge, you may not find any specials or sales.
Be honest about the age of your fridge. You might be able, at minimum, to sell the still functional parts.
Many older refrigerators, freezers, and other kitchen appliances are made of materials that must be properly disposed of.
9. You Can Hear Your Fridge Running
This is not a joke phone call from the 90s. If your fridge does indeed sound like it is running, it’s time for a repair technician to diagnose the problem.
Fridges aren’t usually the most silent appliances, but you won’t notice any noise when it’s running. If your fridge’s hum or buzz continues after you turn off the refrigerator, it can be a problem.
You only have two options if the noise persists after a technician has arrived. You have two options: either replace it or catch it before it goes away ( extended service plan).
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Fridge?
The cost to replace a fridge varies widely depending on the type, brand, and features of the refrigerator you choose.
Prices range from $400 to $1,000 for standard top-freezer models and from $700 to $2,500 for side-by-side models of both types of refrigerators.
Depending on the features and capacity, a French door refrigerator can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $4,000.
The cost of replacing a fridge can also depend on additional factors, such as installation fees, removal and disposal of the old fridge, and any necessary modifications to your kitchen. A professional installation of your new refrigerator will cost more money.
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FAQs
Is It Worth Repairing A 10-year-old Refrigerator?
A refrigerator’s lifespan is between 10 and 20 years. The Money Pit claims that the cost to fix a refrigerator increases with the years it has been in service.
Consider repair if the refrigerator is less than eight years old. Consider replacing the refrigerator if it is older than 15 years.
What Brand of Refrigerator Lasts The Longest?
Because of variables like product quality, maintenance, and even chance, there is no one correct answer to this issue.
However, some brands often cited as durable and long-lasting include GE, Maytag, and Whirlpool. These manufacturers are known for making durable products that will last for years.
Of course, even the best brands can’t prevent every refrigerator from eventually breaking down, but they may be more likely to last longer than other brands.
How Can I Tell If My Fridge Is Cold Enough?
Use beverages or food that have been refrigerated for at least 24 hours when checking the temperature of a refrigerator.
Common practice calls for placing a glass of water inside the fridge and waiting at least 24 hours before drinking. To get a reading, place the thermometer inside the glass.
How Long Do Whirlpool Refrigerators Last?
Many models of Whirlpool refrigerators have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years, making them some of the most dependable on the market. However, they will need to be replaced just like any other home appliance in the long run.
Depending on the type and how well it is cared for, a Whirlpool refrigerator may last anywhere from 12 to 15 years. Your Whirlpool refrigerator may serve you well for many years if you take good care of it.
Conclusion
Your use will determine the life expectancy of your refrigerator. Experts estimate that they can last for up to 13 years.
If you’re a meticulous, organized person who loves cleanliness, your fridge lasts up to 15 years. If you don’t properly care for your refrigerator, it could be damaged in 10 years.
Publican Anker will monitor and filter all questions. The article will benefit greatly from your suggestions for improvement.
