I have an old refrigerator that has started to have some problems. Though it’s served me well, I wasn’t sure whether this was the end of its life or not. So, I did some research into whether it’s a good idea to keep a 15-year-old fridge or get a new one. Here’s what I found.
We have found it is not worth repairing a 15-year-old refrigerator. It’s often best to replace a 15-year-old refrigerator. Usually, the cost of repairs will be too excessive and it will be cheaper to purchase a new model. There are a few simple maintenance activities that you can use to extend the lifespan.
How can you Tell Whether it’s Time to Replace the Refrigerator?
Deciding whether you want to repair the fridge, or get a new one, is a big choice. There are a few things that you need to know to make the right decision. Let’s look at some of them.
In deciding whether or not you want to replace your fridge, there are two important factors that you should consider. The first is any mechanical issues that the fridge might be facing. The second is whether you will be able to get a more environmentally friendly model. Let’s take a closer look at both these factors, so you can decide if it’s time to replace the fridge.
Mechanical Issues
There are a few signs that it might be time to consider replacing your fridge. First, you might notice that it is constantly running, but it’s not getting any cooler. In other cases, it might be making an odd noise. This often indicates that there might be a problem with the compressor.
In these cases, it will often be a serious issue that you’ll need to address. You will often need to repair the compressor. It will cost around $100 for a new compressor. Then, you’ll need to get a professional in to fix the fridge. They will need to be paid an hourly fee for their services. This can be as high as $200 per hour, plus the call-out fee.
When you add up all these costs, it can be very expensive to repair the fridge. Because of this, it could end up being more cost-effective to get a new one.
When deciding whether it’s a good idea to replace a major appliance such as a refrigerator, it’s a good idea to consult with a professional repairman. They will be able to help you diagnose the problem and see how much it would cost to get it fixed. This can be very helpful when deciding whether or not to replace the fridge.
During this consultation, you also want to ask whether there are any other issues with the fridge. If it’s a once-off expense and you’ll be able to get more life out of it, you might want to consider paying for the repairs. However, if there are more systemic issues and it will be broken again in a few months, it’s best to replace it.
Warranty Period
When deciding how much it will cost to repair the fridge, you might want to read through the warranty. This might allow you to fix the damage for a lower price. However, most warranties will only last for one year. After this, they will only cover specific parts. After 15 years, the warranty will likely be void. Though there’s no harm in double-checking.
More Environmentally Friendly Models
Another sign that you might need to replace the fridge is that it is no longer energy efficient. Because it needs to be on all the time, the fridge will often absorb the most electricity in your home. Many new models have been designed to reduce the amount of power they require. This can add up to hundreds of dollars in savings while reducing your environmental impact.
You can use this tool to get a good idea of how much you’ll be paying in electricity costs for your fridge. You can then compare it to a similar modern model, to see how much you’ll be able to save.
What Types of Fridges Will Be Easiest To Repair?
Not all fridges are built equally. Some will be easier to repair than others. The type of fridge you have can be a big factor to consider when deciding whether you want to repair or replace the fridge.
Built-in fridges tend to be the most durable models. They also tend to be the cheapest to repair. Because of this, it’s often worth putting in the money to fix these types of fridges. Also, these fridges have been built to suit the space. So, finding a new model that would be able to fit into the space can often be a major challenge.
The next longest-lasting device will be the bottom-freezer style. The side-by-side refrigerator will typically last the shortest period. You might need to consider replacing these after just five years.
How Long Does a Fridge Last?
How long the fridge will last often depends on the model that you purchased and how well you took care of it. For example, built-in fridges tend to have the longest lifespan. Some have still been working after 35 years of use.
However, this long lifespan isn’t the norm. In most cases, a fridge will last between ten to 13 years. The older the fridge gets, the more likely it will start to develop issues. Because of this, after seven years, you might want to consider the pros and cons of replacing the fridge.
How Can I Make Sure That My Fridge Lasts for a Long Time?
There are some ways that you will be able to extend the lifespan of your fridge. One of the best things is to keep the compressor at the back of the fridge clean. To do this, you’ll often need to undo the panels at the back of the fridge. Then, you will be able to use a damp cloth to get rid of the dirt and grime on the compressor. You might also want to use a vacuum cleaner, to eliminate any lingering dust.
You should also clean the inside of the fridge. Get rid of any bacteria that might be growing inside the fridge. Depending on the model, you might need to change the water filter inside the freezer. Finally, try to look out for any gaps in the sealant that might be letting the hot air out. Though simple, these tips will keep the fridge in good condition.
Final Thoughts
The age of your refrigerator will determine whether it’s best to replace or repair it. Often, if you’ve had it for under seven years, the issues will be fairly minor. So, it will be more cost-effective to repair it. However, if you’re fridge is 15 years old, the issues will be more extensive. Because of this, you might be better off replacing it with a newer model. If you choose something that is more energy-efficient, the upgrade will end up saving you money on your electricity bills.