How Long Do Refrigerators Last?

Its a now vital part of life – you rely on your refrigerator to keep your food fresh, your drinks chilled, and your ice cubes frozen. But have you ever wondered how long your refrigerator will last? And how can you tell if it’s time to replace it? Well, wonder no more, because I’m here to tell you everything you need to know about refrigerator lifespan.

The average life of a refrigerator is 12 years, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. However, this number varies depending on the type, brand, model, and maintenance of the appliance. In reality, a faulty fridge could break within months, while a well-kept appliance could last as many as 20 years.

What Factors Affect Refrigerator Lifespan?

Refrigerator lifespan is the amount of time that your fridge can function properly before it needs to be replaced. The longer your fridge lasts, the more money you can save on buying a new one and the less waste you can generate for the environment.

There are several factors that affect how long your fridge lasts, such as:

• Type: Different types of fridges have different cooling systems and features that affect their durability and efficiency. For example, top-freezer fridges tend to last longer than bottom-freezer or French-door fridges because they have less surface area exposed to warm air. Similarly, manual-defrost fridges tend to last longer than frost-free fridges because they have fewer components that can break down.
• Brand: Different brands of fridges have different reputations for quality and reliability. Some brands may use better materials and technology than others, or offer better warranties and customer service. For example, according to Consumer Reports, LG, Whirlpool, and GE are some of the most reliable brands for refrigerators.
• Model: Different models of fridges have different specifications and features that affect their performance and longevity. For example, some models may have more energy-efficient compressors or more advanced temperature controls than others. Some models may also have more bells and whistles, such as ice makers or water dispensers, that can increase the risk of malfunctions.
• Maintenance: The way you use and care for your fridge can also influence how long it lasts. For example, keeping your fridge clean, well-ventilated, and properly leveled can help prevent dust buildup, overheating, and uneven wear and tear. Likewise, setting your fridge at the optimal temperature, avoiding overloading it, and repairing minor issues promptly can help extend its life.

How to Tell if Your Refrigerator Is Dying

If your fridge is dying, there are some signs that you may notice, such as:

• Food spoilage: If your food spoils faster than usual or has an off taste or smell, it may be because your fridge is not cooling properly or consistently. This can pose a health risk as well as a waste issue.
• Condensation: If you see excessive moisture or droplets inside or outside your fridge, it may be because your fridge is not sealing properly or regulating humidity well. This can lead to mold growth and corrosion.
• Heat: If your fridge feels hot to the touch or emits a lot of heat from the back or sides, it may be because your fridge is working too hard or has a faulty component. This can increase your energy consumption and fire hazard.
• Noise: If your fridge makes loud or unusual noises, such as buzzing, humming, rattling, or clicking, it may be because your fridge has a loose or broken part. This can affect your fridge’s functionality and efficiency.
• Silence: If your fridge is completely silent when plugged in (a gentle hum is normal), it may be because your fridge is not working at all or has a tripped circuit breaker. This can result in spoiled food and lost money.

How to Extend Your Refrigerator’s Life

If you want to prolong your refrigerator’s life and avoid costly repairs or replacements, there are some steps you can take, such as:

• Clean your fridge: Dust and dirt can accumulate on the coils and vents of your fridge, reducing its efficiency and increasing its power consumption. To prevent this, clean the coils and vents of your fridge at least once a year with a vacuum cleaner or a brush. You can also check the seals of your fridge door to make sure they are not cracked or loose.
• Adjust your settings: As mentioned earlier, setting your fridge at the optimal temperature can help save energy and prevent food spoilage. The ideal temperature for your fridge is between 37°F and 40°F (3°C and 4°C), and for your freezer is between 0°F and 5°F (-18°C and -15°C). Setting your fridge or freezer too cold or too warm can waste energy and cause food spoilage.
• Use your fridge wisely: The way you use your fridge can also affect its lifespan. For example, try to limit how often you open your fridge or freezer door, as this can let cold air escape and warm air enter, making your fridge work harder to cool down again. Likewise, try to keep your fridge at least three-quarters full, as this can help maintain a stable temperature and reduce air circulation. However, avoid overloading your fridge, as this can block the airflow and cause uneven cooling.
• Upgrade your fridge: If your fridge is old or inefficient, consider replacing it with a new one that has an Energy Star label. Energy Star fridges are certified to use at least 15% less energy than standard models. You can also check the EnergyGuide label on your fridge to see how much energy it uses per year and compare it with other models.

FAQs

• How often should you replace your refrigerator? There is no definitive answer to how often you should replace your refrigerator, as it depends on several factors, such as the type, brand, model, and maintenance of the appliance. However, a good rule of thumb is to replace your refrigerator when it is more than 15 years old or when the cost of repairing it exceeds half the cost of buying a new one.
• How much does it cost to repair or replace a refrigerator? The cost of repairing or replacing a refrigerator varies depending on the type, brand, model, and extent of the damage. According to HomeAdvisor, the average cost of repairing a refrigerator is $200 to $400, while the average cost of replacing a refrigerator is $1,000 to $2,000. However, these costs can be higher or lower depending on the specific situation.
• How do you dispose of an old refrigerator? If you want to dispose of an old refrigerator, you have several options, such as donating it to a charity or organization that accepts working appliances, selling it or giving it away to someone who needs it, recycling it at a local facility that accepts appliances, or hiring a professional junk removal service to haul it away for you. However, before you dispose of an old refrigerator, make sure to empty it of any food or liquids, unplug it from the power source, and remove the doors or secure them with duct tape to prevent children or animals from getting trapped inside.

Final Thoughts

Now you know how long refrigerators last and how to tell if they are dying. You also know what factors affect their lifespan and how to extend it. By following these tips, you can enjoy your cold and fresh food for a long time.

I hope you found this article helpful and informative. If you did, please share it with your friends and family who might be interested in learning more about refrigerator lifespan. And don’t forget to check out my other articles on home decor and lifestyle topics. Until next time, stay cool and posho wosho!