Most refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you’re having any of the other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you’ll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge that’s already on its way out.
If your 20-year-old fridge has been running well, and only needs minor repairs once in a while, then it is worth keeping it, instead of replacing it. Though, if it ends up needing a major repair, then you should think about replacing the fridge.
How efficient is a 20-year-old refrigerator?
A 20-year-old refrigerator could use 1,700 kWh of electricity every year, compared with about 450 kWh for a similarly sized new ENERGY STAR model. At an electrical cost of 12 cents per kWh, that represents a savings of $150 per year and a potential payback of about 7-9 years.
Are refrigerators more efficient than 20 years ago?
A refrigerator produced to the 2014 standard (still the current standard) is about 29- 32% more efficient than one produced during the period 2002-2008. Greater efficiency units built to the 2014 standard translates to a savings of about 160 -175 kWh per year.
But, as a good rule of thumb, if you have multiple faulty parts or if your refrigerator is over ten years old, it is probably time to replace it. Consumer Reports recommends replacing your refrigerator if the cost to repair it is more than half the price of buying a new one.
Can a refrigerator last 25 years?
Estimates range in terms of how long fridges last; some sources say 10 years while others say as long as 25 years. According to the United States Department of Energy, refrigerators last approximately 12 years. At that point, it’s likely time to replace it.
Why do old refrigerators last so long?
Older Appliances Were Designed to Last: The parts were simple and easy to fix, so people could keep their appliances running for much longer than they can today. Unlike modern appliances, which have complex electronics and computerized components that can be expensive to repair or replace.
Can a fridge last 40 years?
A refrigerator can last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. The older your unit is, the more it may cost to repair it. Eventually the cost of repairs will start to outweigh the cost of a replacement.
What refrigerator has the longest life?
GE French Door Refrigerator.
Samsung Counter-Depth Side by Side.
LG Side by Side.
How much does it cost to run a 25 year old refrigerator?
10 for electricity per kWh, that means the aging refrigerator is costing you about $. 55 per day, $16.67 per month, and $200 per year. A modern-era Energy Star-rated fridge, by comparison, might only use 350 kWh annually.
Why do 1970s refrigerators last so long?
They were made using simple parts — and perhaps more importantly — parts that were fixable. In fact, appliances manufactured in the 1970s often last from 30 to 50 years. Should an appliance break, there was a simple fix, such as replacing a hose, to get it working again for another decade or two.
Do more expensive refrigerators last longer?
Compared to their lower-cost counterparts, luxury appliances are built with superior materials for a higher quality performance meant to last a lifetime. Additionally, advanced testing during development and production means you won’t be let down.
Is there a best time of year to buy a refrigerator?
When it comes to sale season, our experts recommend May as a good time to buy a new refrigerator. That’s typically when new models hit the stores—and last year’s get discounted. Of course, major sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day usually offer discounted rates on select fridges as well.
Can a refrigerator last 30 years?
Most refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you’re having any of the other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you’ll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge that’s already on its way out.
What are the signs that your refrigerator is going out?
Your food is spoiling before its expiration date.
Your freezer is too cold.
You can hear the motor.
The back of the fridge feels hot.
Your electric bill goes up unexpectedly.
You’re seeing condensation or frost.
You have the fridge-repair guy on speed dial.
What is the most expensive thing to fix on a refrigerator?
The control board is one of the most expensive refrigerator parts to fix, at between $80 and $800, because no part of the appliance can function without it. If your fridge has completely stopped working, it probably has something to do with your control board. The higher-end the brand, the more you can expect to pay.
What brand of refrigerator has the least problems?
Top-freezers, as a category, have the highest predicted reliability. Despite these high marks, most top-freezer brands were rated low in terms of owner satisfaction. Within the category, five of the nine brands earned top-notch ratings for predicted reliability: Kenmore, LG, Maytag, Samsung, and Whirlpool.
Can appliances last 20 years?
Most kitchen appliances, washing machines, and dryers will last up to 15 years. However, HVAC appliances can last up to 25 years. It’s essential to consider the lifespan of the appliance. If you’re asking, when should I get a new appliance, and your machine is still working, there’s no need to rush out and replace it.
A loose or torn gasket doesn’t seal tightly. This wastes energy and causes the fridge to work harder, shortening its lifespan. Make it a habit to clean the gasket with warm water twice a year to remove any residue. Then check the seal for tears and replace it if you find any.
Which refrigerator brand is most reliable?
Best overall refrigerator brand: LG.
Best budget refrigerator brand: Frigidaire.
Best high-end refrigerator brand: Sub-Zero.
Best smart refrigerator brand: Samsung.
Best energy-efficient refrigerator brand: Whirlpool.
Most reliable refrigerator brand: GE.
Are old refrigerators safe?
Older fridges can have a number of other hazardous chemicals hidden in their mechanical parts. Those built before 2000 likely contain a small amount of mercury in switches and relays that professional appliance recyclers can recover for reuse.
What type of refrigerator has the most problems?
Bottom freezer refrigerators of all brands with an ice dispenser are more likely to have problems than bottom freezer refrigerators that do not have an ice dispenser. Side-by-Side refrigerators are the most popular models but also the most likely to have repair problems.
What happens to old refrigerator?
Fridges and freezers also contain easily recyclable components, such as copper, aluminum, steel, glass, and plastic. These materials can be used to build other everyday items. The same aluminum that was once part of your fridge could be used to create your next beverage can!
Are French door refrigerators reliable?
Using Consumer Reports data as well as its own claims data, Safeware says French door units are more susceptible to damage than all other types of refrigerators. The company projects that half of all French door refrigerators will experience failure requiring repair or replacement within five years of purchase.
How can I prolong the life of my refrigerator?
Vacuum the Condenser Coils.
Keep the Door Gaskets Clean.
Change the Water Filter.
Keep the Top of the Fridge Clear.
Clean the Water/Ice Dispenser.
Should I buy a 10 year old fridge?
A fridge that has been around for more than a decade is probably too old. While appliances of the past are known for their quality craftsmanship, they aren’t as energy efficient as you’d like them to be. Even a very low-cost item could turn out to be expensive in terms of utility bills.
Do bottom freezer refrigerators have more problems?
Heavier Items on the Bottom: Frozen foods can be weighty, especially frozen turkeys and hams. Because your freezer is on the bottom, removing these items will require more work. This can be a safety concern for seniors and anyone who has trouble bending and lifting heavier objects.
What is the average life of a refrigerator compressor?
That said, modern compressors are both durable and efficient. Although plans for a replacement should start around eight years of service, a well-maintained compressor can reach to ten years and beyond.
Do older refrigerators use more electricity?
According to Energy Star, old refrigerators use about 33% more energy than a newer model that’s earned the Energy Star certification.
