how-much-was-a-frigidaire-freezer-in-1959

How Much Was A Frigidaire Freezer In 1959 – How Does It Compare To Today

If you’re a fan of vintage appliances, you may wonder how much a Frigidaire freezer cost back in 1959 and how it compares to today’s prices. Frigidaire is one of the oldest and most popular brands of freezers in the US, dating back to 1918 when it was founded as the Guardian Frigerator Company. Since then, Frigidaire has produced many models of freezers, ranging from chest freezers to upright freezers, with various features and capacities.

According to an old advertisement from 1959, a Frigidaire Frost-Proof Refrigerator-Freezer cost $399.95, which is equivalent to about $3,700 in 2021. Today, a similar Frigidaire freezer costs around $700 to $800, depending on the model and size.

How much was a Frigidaire freezer in 1959?

To find out how much a Frigidaire freezer cost in 1959, we looked at an old advertisement from that year that featured a Frigidaire Frost-Proof Refrigerator-Freezer. This was a two-door model with a top freezer and a bottom refrigerator, with a total capacity of 13.24 cubic feet. The freezer had a capacity of 4.07 cubic feet and featured an automatic defrost system that eliminated frost buildup. The refrigerator had a capacity of 9.17 cubic feet and featured adjustable shelves, door bins, and a butter keeper.

The advertisement claimed that this model was “the most wanted refrigerator-freezer in America” and offered it for $399.95, which was apparently “the lowest price ever for a Frost-Proof”. It also offered a trade-in allowance of up to $100 for your old refrigerator or freezer.

1959 ORIGINAL VINTAGE FRIGIDAIRE REFRIGERATOR APPLIANCE MAGAZINE AD | eBay

How does it compare to today’s prices?

To compare the price of a Frigidaire freezer in 1959 to today’s prices, we need to adjust for inflation. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the consumer price index (CPI) for 1959 was 29.1 and the CPI for 2021 was 269.3 (as of July). This means that the average prices of goods and services increased by about 8.25 times from 1959 to 2021.

Using this inflation rate, we can calculate that $399.95 in 1959 is equivalent to about $3,700 in 2021. This means that the Frigidaire Frost-Proof Refrigerator-Freezer was quite expensive for its time, considering that the average annual income in 1959 was about $5,000.

Today, you can buy a similar Frigidaire freezer for much less. For example, the Frigidaire Top Freezer Refrigerator (FRTD2021AS) is a two-door model with a top freezer and a bottom refrigerator, with a total capacity of 20.5 cubic feet. The freezer has a capacity of 5.1 cubic feet and features an automatic defrost system that eliminates frost buildup. The refrigerator has a capacity of 15.4 cubic feet and features adjustable shelves, door bins, and a dairy bin.

This model costs around $700 to $800, depending on where you buy it from. This means that you can get a larger and more efficient Frigidaire freezer for less than a quarter of the price of the 1959 model.

1959 frigidaire refrigerator

FAQs

Q: How reliable are Frigidaire freezers?

A: Frigidaire freezers are generally reliable and durable appliances that can last for many years with proper care and maintenance. However, like any appliance, they may experience some problems or issues over time, such as:

  • Frost buildup or ice formation
  • Temperature fluctuations or inconsistencies
  • Water leaks or drips
  • Noisy or faulty fan motor
  • Broken or worn-out door seal

If you encounter any of these problems or other issues with your Frigidaire freezer, you should consult your owner’s manual or contact Frigidaire customer service or an authorized technician for assistance.

Q: How energy-efficient are Frigidaire freezers?

A: Frigidaire freezers are designed to be energy-efficient and eco-friendly appliances that use less electricity and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Many Frigidaire freezers are Energy Star certified, which means that they meet or exceed the federal standards for energy efficiency and performance. You can check the Energy Guide label on your Frigidaire freezer to see how much energy it uses per year and how it compares to other models.

To maximize the energy efficiency of your Frigidaire freezer, you should follow these tips:

  • Set the temperature control to the recommended setting (usually between -5°F and 5°F for the freezer and between 34°F and 40°F for the refrigerator)
  • Keep the freezer at least three-quarters full to maintain a stable temperature and reduce air circulation
  • Avoid opening the door frequently or for long periods of time to prevent cold air loss
  • Clean the condenser coil regularly to remove dust and dirt that may affect the cooling efficiency
  • Keep the freezer away from heat sources, direct sunlight, or moisture that may increase its energy consumption

Q: How do I clean and maintain my Frigidaire freezer?

A: To keep your Frigidaire freezer in good condition, you should clean and maintain it regularly. Here are some steps to follow:

  • Unplug your freezer and empty it of any food or items
  • Wipe the interior and exterior of your freezer with a mild detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads that may scratch or damage the surface
  • Defrost your freezer if it has manual defrost or if there is more than 1/4 inch of frost buildup on the walls or floor. To defrost your freezer, unplug it and let the ice melt. Then, wipe up any water or moisture with a towel and plug it back in
  • Check the door seal and hinges for any cracks, tears, or wear. Replace them if needed to ensure a proper closure and prevent air leaks
  • Vacuum or brush the condenser coil on the back or bottom of your freezer at least once a year to remove any dust or dirt that may affect its performance
  • Plug in your freezer and reload it with your food or items

Conclusion

The price of a Frigidaire freezer has changed significantly from 1959 to today, mainly due to inflation and technological advancements. In 1959, a Frigidaire Frost-Proof Refrigerator-Freezer cost $399.95, which is equivalent to about $3,700 in 2021. Today, a similar Frigidaire Top Freezer Refrigerator costs around $700 to $800, depending on the model and size.

This means that you can get a larger and more efficient Frigidaire freezer for less than a quarter of the price of the 1959 model. However, you should also consider other factors, such as reliability, energy efficiency, and maintenance, when choosing a Frigidaire freezer for your home.

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Dale is the founder and appliance expert behind PressToCook.com. He is a former restaurant manager who has spent years behind the scenes using just about every kitchen appliance imaginable.

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