Last Updated on February 13, 2023 by Jahangir
Have you ever wondered how long your fridge lasts? It’s important to understand the lifespan of your refrigerator. While refrigerators are designed to last for quite a while, there are certain factors that determine the lifespan of the appliance. In this blog, we will discuss some factors that impact fridge life and ways to ensure a longer lifespan for your fridge.
Factors Impacting Refrigerator Lifespan
A refrigerator’s lifespan depends on the factors outlined above. Overloading the refrigerator can reduce the lifespan of its components, such as the condenser coil and compressor. These parts work harder over time and may break down prematurely. Additionally, setting the freezer temperature above 15 degrees Fahrenheit can reduce the refrigerator’s lifespan by overworking the motor. The age of a refrigerator also plays an important role in determining whether to repair or replace it. Those between eight and 15 years old may require additional evaluation because they are at the lower end of the range for refrigerator life expectancy.
General cleaning of the refrigerator and regularly changing the water filter can help ensure its optimal performance. By taking these simple steps, you can enjoy your refrigerator’s many benefits for years to come.
Invest in Quality for Longer Life
– Investing money in a refrigerator may help increase its lifespan. However, spending more money on a fridge may not necessarily mean it will last longer. This is because quality components and technology can extend the fridge’s life up to 10+ years.
– Refrigerators can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance and repair. Setting the freezer temperature to 0 degrees F and the fridge to 36 to 37 degrees can help maximize the appliance’s lifespan. This is because these settings ensure the fridge maintains an optimal temperature for food storage and preservation.
– Smart fridges with energy saving features like door alarms and AI technology can help prolong the appliance’s lifespan. They enable customers to monitor appliance usage, cleanliness, and performance via smartphone or web interface and are designed to better preserve energy and reduce power consumption.
Regular Maintenance is Key
-If you notice that your refrigerator motor is suddenly running constantly or making a lot of noise, it’s best to call a professional for help. It may be time for a tune-up or repair, depending on the issue.
– Properly scheduled maintenance is the best way to prevent issues with major appliances. It involves keeping the fridge and other appliances clean and free of debris, as well as monitoring the appliance’s age and condition.
– If you notice that your fridge isn’t cooling adequately, there are some basic checks you can perform to ensure it’s operating properly. Start with setting the correct temperature for the food inside, which can be found on the fridge’s digital display or on the back of the freezer door.
– To ensure that your fridge is always cold, make sure to use ice regularly and frequently clean out the fridge interior. Finally, don’t run a refrigerator at 100% capacity for an extended period of time. This will damage the appliance and lead to costly repairs down the road.
Newer Models Offer More Efficient Performance
– Municipal recycling programs and rebates are available to help you upgrade to energy-efficient models. The average lifespan of a standard refrigerator is 13 years, but for compact refrigerators, it is less than 9 years. You can find high-quality refrigerators from the top brands at lower price points, with some models starting at $200 – $300. In addition, newer models offer more efficient performance than older models, costing $200 per year less to operate.
– Newer refrigerators also come with features like digital displays and extra-large door openings that make it easier to organize your food and keep track of what’s in the refrigerator. However, investing in a new appliance may not always be the best option. Older refrigerators may still be perfectly functional and could cost less to operate than newer models. That is why it is important to do your research and consider all your options carefully before making a purchase.
Consider the Cost-Benefit of Replacing Your Fridge
– The cost of operating an old fridge can be much more than a new one. This is because the older fridge will require more energy to run, which leads to higher electricity bills. Additionally, repairing or replacing a fridge of this age could cost you anywhere from $500 to $12,000 depending on the make, model, and features.
– If you’re looking to replace your fridge with a more energy efficient model, it’s best to do your research and understand the different types available in the market.
– Many municipalities offer recycling programs and rebates to help those who are tired of repairing their old fridge with an energy efficient model. Thus, you have ample opportunities to choose the fridge that best suits your needs and budget
A refrigerator should be looked after properly for its life cycle to last long. Keeping it clean is one way of ensuring that it lasts longer. Also, ensure that the appliance is properly installed and not exposed to water or high-temperature environments.
Additionally, check for any signs of troubles such as frequent repair or costly fixes. This could be a sign that it’s time to replace your fridge.
How to clean a refrigerator
Cleaning the condenser coils of a refrigerator is important to ensure optimal performance and extend the lifespan of the appliance. These coils help in the conversion of electricity into cold air, which helps in the refrigeration process.
Once or twice a year, you can use a dishwasher to wash the coils. Avoid using harsh detergents or cleansers as they can damage the coils and affect the functioning of your refrigerator. Instead, use warm water and mild detergents that are safe for dishwasher use. Also, wipe condenser coils with a damp cloth to remove any dirt.
When cleaning interior vents, use a warm, damp rag to remove excess dust particles from the interior of your fridge. Also, inspect energy-star-rated refrigerator seals for tears or broken parts and replace them as necessary.
Lubricate the seals with a thin layer of Vaseline to help keep them elastic and flexible. It will enhance the seal’s ability to seal properly, preventing air from escaping from inside your fridge and keeping food fresher for longer.
Finally, avoid using excessive soap as it can attack seals and mechanisms within your appliance and even etch your dishes.
How long should a refrigerator last?
The life expectancy of a refrigerator is typically 10 to 15 years, with an average of 13 years. The lifespan of a traditional fridge with a bottom or top freezer can last up to 12 years. High-end models can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. These refrigerators have sturdy frames and advanced technology, which can prolong the lifespan of the appliance.
The average fridge lifespan is 9 to 13 years. Factors that can influence the fridge’s life span include the type and size, maintenance, and placement. It’s important to keep track of how old your fridge is and check its batteries once a year. Also, remove old food and ice periodically to prevent bacterial growth and avoid odors.
Should you buy a new refrigerator when it starts to show signs of aging?
When it comes to buying a new refrigerator, the cost of repair or replacement is not the only consideration. Fixing a damaged appliance can cost as little as $100, but replacing a fridge that is nearing the end of its lifespan can be costly too.
Some new refrigerators cost anywhere between $350 and $12,000 depending on their features, and installation can add up to around $3,900. So if your 20-year-old refrigerator is still running well and has not required frequent repairs, you can delay a replacement by a few years. This will help you save money and time in the long run.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I extend the life of my refrigerator?
There are a few things that you can do to extend the life of your refrigerator.
1. Ensure your refrigerator is installed and vented correctly – Make sure your refrigerator is in a dry, well-ventilated area and installed properly so that condensation does not build up and cause water damage.
2. Keep refrigerator and freezer well stocked – Make sure to keep refrigerator and freezer free of empty space so that items stay cold. You should also stock up on food items that will help to slow down the natural deterioration process of food in the refrigerator or freezer.
3. At least once a year, clean dust from coils and inspect rubber seals – Clean coils every six months and inspect rubber seals on the door gasket, door seal, and side panel every year.
4. Regularly maintain refrigerator – Maintaining your refrigerator regularly will help to prevent problems from arising in the first place and prolong appliance life. Check temperature, performance, and water levels to ensure that everything is functioning as it should be. If there are any issues, address them before they become bigger problems.
5. Invest in a high-quality refrigerator – A high-quality refrigerator will typically last longer than a lower quality model, which means you’ll be able to save money in
What are some common causes of refrigerator failure?
Fridge failure can be caused by a malfunctioning ice maker, an old refrigerator, a tear or break in the door seal, cold air leaking out, or a fridge that was built before 1997. To prevent freezer failure, it is recommended to replace the bottom freezer within 7 years and top freezer after 7 years.
What are some steps that I can take to prevent refrigerator failure?
To prevent refrigerator failure, follow these simple tips:
1. Maintain your refrigerator with regular scheduled maintenance: Regularly clean out the fridge food and water containers, fix any leaks, and check all appliance parts for wear and tear.
2. Change out the water filter every six months: The water filter is responsible for cleaning the water that goes into your fridge, so it’s important to change it every six months.
3. Check that all components are functioning properly: Make sure the fridge motor runs periodically and does not loudly, the water dispenser or ice maker are working properly, and the condenser fan is on.
4. Make sure the buildup of bacteria does not damage your water dispenser or ice maker: Clean the water dispenser and ice maker regularly with a mild dish soap and warm water.
Conclusion
As mentioned earlier, refrigerators last for years. If you want to extend the lifespan of your refrigerator and ensure that it continues to function well over the years, regular maintenance and cleaning will help. However, repairing fridge freezer problems is always best first. When refrigerators start having issues like not keeping food cold or showing signs of wear and tear like rust buildup or condensation on the exterior, it is time to replace them. Besides, buying a new fridge every few years can be a smart decision as well. It all depends on how long you want to have your fridge!
Mr. Jahangir Alam is an Electrical & Electronics Engineer with a wide range of experience in several fields of Engineering. He finds engineering articles to be very interesting, and that is why he likes to write them. To know more about him, please click here.