How Long Do Refrigerators Last?: 2025 Lifespan Update
As a homeowner, you probably rely on your refrigerator every day. But have you ever wondered about its lifespan? Knowing how long your refrigerator will last can help you plan for a replacement and avoid surprise breakdowns.
In this article, we're going to talk about the average lifespan of refrigerators, signs your fridge might be on its last leg, and some troubleshooting tips to help you solve common issues. Plus, we'll give you some tips on how to extend the life of your refrigerator.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- On average, refrigerators last for about 12 to 15 years. However, proper cleaning, maintenance, and ventilation practices can potentially extend the lifespan of a refrigerator beyond the average range.
- Keep the rubber gaskets around the refrigerator and freezer doors clean and in good condition to ensure a tight seal, preventing warm air from entering and making the compressor work harder.
- In addition to following maintenance tips, schedule a yearly maintenance check with a technician to ensure all components are in top condition and make any necessary adjustments to extend the life of the refrigerator.
What is the Lifespan of My Fridge?
The durability and longevity of your refrigerator is influenced by many factors. Understanding these factors can help you make informed decisions about maintaining and replacing your fridge. Here are some key points to consider.
Factors that Affect the Lifespan of a Refrigerator
- Quality: The quality of the build and the reputation of the brand can significantly affect how long a refrigerator will last. Investing in a reliable brand known for its quality appliances can extend the lifespan of your fridge.
- Usage and maintenance: Proper usage and regular maintenance can also extend the lifespan of your refrigerator. Regularly cleaning the condenser coils, keeping the inside of the fridge clean, and avoiding overloading it can help your fridge work better and last longer.
- Environmental conditions: The temperature and humidity levels in your home can affect the performance and lifespan of your refrigerator. Extreme temperatures or high humidity can strain the compressor and other components, potentially shortening the life of your fridge.
Average Lifespan of Different Types of Refrigerators
Different types of refrigerators can have different average lifespans:
- Top freezer: On average, top freezer refrigerators last about 10-15 years.
- Bottom freezer: Bottom freezer refrigerators usually last about 15-20 years.
- Side-by-side: Side-by-side refrigerators typically last about 15-20 years.
- French door: French door refrigerators are known to last between 15-20 years.
Tips to Maximize the Lifespan of your Refrigerator:
- Regular maintenance: Clean the condenser coils, check the door seals, and keep the inside of the fridge clean. Have the refrigerator professionally maintained yearly to truly maximize its lifespan.
- Avoid overloading: Overloading the fridge can strain the compressor and reduce its efficiency.
- Proper temperature settings: Make sure your refrigerator is set to the recommended temperature to avoid unnecessary strain on the components.
- Keep it level: Keeping your refrigerator level ensures it performs at its best and prevents potential damage.
- Address issues promptly: If you notice any issues or signs of malfunction, schedule repair service as soon as possible.
By understanding what affects your refrigerator's lifespan and following proper maintenance practices, you can extend its life and get reliable performance for many years.
Signs Your Refrigerator is Dying
Has your fridge stopped working like it used to? It might be on its way out. Knowing the common signs of a failing refrigerator can help you figure out if it's time for a repair or replacement.
One of the first signs of a dying refrigerator is weird noises. If your fridge starts making loud humming, buzzing, or knocking sounds, it could be a sign that something's wrong. Likewise, bad smells coming from the fridge, even after cleaning, could indicate a problem with the cooling system or the presence of mold.
Another sign to look out for is inconsistent temperatures. If certain areas of your fridge aren't staying as cool as they should be, it could be a sign of a failing compressor or a broken thermostat. Also, if you notice your food spoiling faster than usual, it could be because of a problem with the refrigerator's cooling abilities.
When deciding whether to repair or replace your refrigerator, consider a few things. If your fridge is relatively new and the cost of repairs is reasonable, it might be worth fixing. But if your fridge is old and repairs are becoming frequent and expensive, it might be more cost-effective to get a new one that has updated features and better energy efficiency.
At Sears Home Services, we offer professional refrigerator repair services. Our experienced technicians can diagnose and fix a wide range of refrigerator problems, ensuring your fridge works well for many more years. If a replacement is necessary, we also have a wide selection of top-quality refrigerators from the best brands to meet your needs.
Troubleshooting Tips for Your Fridge
Is your fridge causing you problems? Before you panic and start shopping for a new one, try these simple fixes for common refrigerator problems.
If your fridge isn't cooling properly, it might be because of incorrect temperature settings. Start by checking the temperature controls. Most refrigerators have a dial or digital display in the fresh food compartment. Make sure the temperature is set to the recommended level, usually between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If necessary, adjust the temperature to the right setting.
Another important part of refrigerator maintenance is cleaning the coils. Over time, dust and debris can build up on the condenser coils, making your fridge work harder and less efficiently. To clean the coils, unplug the refrigerator and find the coils either behind or underneath the unit. Use a coil brush or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently clean off the dust and dirt. Remember to clean the coils at least twice a year for optimal performance.
By following these troubleshooting tips, you can extend the life of your refrigerator and potentially avoid expensive repairs or replacements. If you continue to have problems or if your refrigerator is more than 10 years old, it might be time to consider getting professional help or looking at new models.
Replacing the Fridge
When your refrigerator finally gives out or when you decide that it's time for a new one, visit our Sears.com Upgrade page to explore our extensive array of new refrigerators.
We’ve consolidated all help, financing offers and savings into one location on our Upgrade page to make it easy for you to replace your refrigerator now. No hassles and no waiting. Get your new fridge today.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Maintain Refrigerator Resources
Find out how hot your refrigerator compressor should get and how to resolve the problem when the compressor is overheating.
Learn whether you can store a refrigerator outside and the limitations of using a fridge in an outdoor environment.
Stay informed about food safety with our comprehensive food storage guidelines, covering everything from dairy to meat to vegetables.
Learn about keeping a second refrigerator/freezer in the garage safely and whether an extra fridge is right for your household.
Glossary Terms
A dual ice maker is a feature in some refrigerators that includes two separate ice makers: one in the fridge compartment and another in the freezer section. This setup doubles the appliance's ice-making capacity.
A French-door refrigerator features two doors that open side-by-side on the top section for the refrigerator compartment, with a bottom freezer drawer, combining style, efficiency, and easy access to both refrigerated and frozen goods.
Refrigerant is a chemical compound used in HVAC systems and refrigerators to absorb heat from the environment by cycling through states of evaporation and condensation, enabling the cooling process through its cycle of evaporation and condensation.
R-12 refrigerant, also known as Freon-12, is a chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) compound that was once widely used in air conditioning systems, refrigerators, and aerosol propellants before its phase-out due to environmental concerns.
Common Repair Refrigerator Symptoms
The most common reasons your Kenmore Elite refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Maytag refrigerator stopped working are a locked compressor, damaged evaporator or a defective electronic control board.
The most common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator is noisy are a faulty ice maker assembly, defective electronic control board or a locked compressor.
The most common reasons your Kenmore refrigerator fan is not working are a defective electronic control board, damaged evaporator or a locked compressor.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator fan is not working are a defective electronic control board, damaged evaporator or a locked compressor.
The most common reasons your Whirlpool refrigerator is not making ice but the water works are a faulty icemaker assembly, a defective water valve, or a malfunctioning PCB.