How Long Does The Average Refrigerator Last?

One of the most important appliances in your kitchen is the refrigerator. It keeps your food cold or frozen so that it doesn’t spoil. It makes ice and provides cold beverages. Refrigerators have a variety of features that make life more convenient. 

Is your refrigerator working right? If not, you may want to ask yourself a few questions: 

• How old is your refrigerator? 
• How long does the average refrigerator last? 

Here’s what you can expect in terms of the average refrigerator lifespan and whether you should consider refrigerator repair or replacement. 

Average Lifespan of a Refrigerator

On average, a refrigerator may last anywhere from 10-20 years. Why such an expansive range? Because there are a number of factors that affect the lifespan of a refrigerator. 

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of a Refrigerator

The following factors could have a significant impact on the lifespan of your refrigerator: 

• Brand. Not all refrigerator manufacturers create the same quality products. Some brands are known to last longer than others simply because they are better quality than other brands. When choosing a brand, read reviews to help you get a quality refrigerator. 

• Model. All manufacturers provide a range of models of refrigerators. Sometimes the difference is features and size; other times the difference is the quality of the model. Some models are high quality and others are budget models. A higher quality refrigerator should last longer. Pricing is a pretty good indicator of quality. 

• Maintenance. Your refrigerator will last longer if it is well maintained. Dust under, around, and behind your refrigerator regularly to keep the mechanical parts clean. Replace the filter regularly according to the recommendation on the filter packaging. A clogged filter can cause your refrigerator to work harder than necessary and wear out more quickly. 

• Use. How you use your refrigerator will affect the lifespan. The harder you and your family are on your refrigerator, the less time it will last. Frequent use and especially abuse, will cause it to wear out more quickly. 

• Climate. A refrigerator that lives inside your kitchen in a climate controlled environment will last longer than a refrigerator in your garage or basement that is not climate controlled. In a hot space the refrigerator will have to work double time to maintain the inside temperature, which will shorten its lifespan. 

• Door seal. Check the seal on your refrigerator door frequently to make sure it is sealing effectively. If the seal is cracked or coming off, the door may not seal properly, meaning cool air can leak out and warm air can get in. Your refrigerator will be running more often to maintain the temperature. 

• Ventilation. Make sure there is plenty of space around all sides of your refrigerator. Without proper ventilation it could overheat. 

• Size and fill. If your refrigerator is too small and you have it stuffed full of food, it will have a harder time achieving and maintaining the desired temperature. The same can be true of a refrigerator that is too big and barely full. 

• Installation. Correct installation of your refrigerator can help it last longer. The feet should be adjusted so that it is sitting level. If it is leaning forward the door may not seal properly. If your refrigerator has an ice maker and/or water dispenser, the water tube must be attached to the water source and the refrigerator.

Signs Your Refrigerator May Need to Be Repaired or Replaced

If your refrigerator shows any of these signs, it may be time to have it repaired or to get a new one: 

• It keeps tripping the outlet or breaker. This could be a sign of an electrical problem, or that something isn’t working properly mechanically that is causing it to draw too much amperage. 

• It won’t stay cold. This could happen for a variety of reasons. 

• The freezer won’t keep things frozen. The reason could be the same as the refrigerator not keeping food cold enough. 

• There is frost in your frost-free freezer. This indicates that warm air is getting in somewhere, such as the door seal or ice dispenser. 

• There is moisture in the refrigerator. The refrigerator should be dry with no condensation inside (with the exception of the fruit or meat drawers). 

Appliance Repair 512 Provides Refrigerator Repair 

If your refrigerator is not working properly, it may be able to be repaired. Before you buy a brand new expensive refrigerator, call Appliance Repair 512. We will inspect your refrigerator and diagnose the problem. It may be as easy as a simple part replacement. If not, we can provide you with a repair estimate so that you can decide if repairing your refrigerator is worth it. 

Call (512) 351-7624 or contact us today to schedule a service appointment.