Refrigerator broken? When to repair or replace your appliance

A refrigerator broken can quickly disrupt your day and throw your household into chaos. Instead of enjoying time with your family, you’re left scrambling to clean up melted ice cream and finding temporary storage for groceries that need cooling. The situation can be frustrating, and the question of whether to repair or replace the appliance looms large.

Understanding when to opt for refrigerator repair or consider a replacement can save you time, money, and stress. Let’s explore the common issues, repair vs. replacement guidelines, and tips to extend your fridge’s lifespan.

When to Repair or Replace Your Refrigerator

Refrigerators are complex appliances, and issues can range from minor inconveniences to significant malfunctions. Knowing when a broken refrigerator can be repaired or when it’s better to replace it can help homeowners make informed decisions.

Some issues that may seem like a serious problem can be simply fixed. Some of the most common refrigerator service problems are:

• Doors not sealing properly 
• The machine is not making ice
• The water dispenser is not working
• A noisy fan 
• The fresh food section is not cooling 
• Condensation or frost

Before calling a professional, try inspecting your refrigerator for these issues. Check that the appliance is securely plugged in and ensure the circuit breaker hasn’t been tripped. It’s also a good idea to vacuum the coils, replace the water filter, and clear any items blocking the air ducts inside your fridge.

When to replace your refrigerator

In some cases, a refrigerator broken beyond repair may be better off replaced than repaired. If the cost of the repair exceeds half the price of a new fridge, or if your fridge is over ten years old, it might be time to consider upgrading to a newer model.

Here are some signs that your fridge may need replacing:

• A loud noise coming from the compressor
• The freezer isn’t cooling at all
• The motor is constantly running, causing the fridge to never turn off

These issues typically indicate major problems that are expensive to fix, and often, the best course of action is to replace the fridge entirely.

Some signs to look out for that may indicate a replacement: 

• A loud noise coming from the compressor
• The freezer is not cooling at all 
• The motor is constantly running

Tips to extend the lifespan of your fridge

Dealing with a refrigerator broken is never fun, and the cost of repairs or replacement can be stressful. To avoid a premature breakdown and help your fridge last as long as possible, consider the following tips to keep your appliance running efficiently:

• Clean the refrigerator coils: Dust and debris on the coils can force your fridge to work harder, leading to potential breakdowns. Regularly clean the coils at the bottom or rear of the appliance.
• Limit door openings: Every time you open the door, cold air escapes, making your fridge work harder to maintain the right temperature. Try to minimize how often you open the fridge.
• Avoid overloading the fridge: Packing your fridge with too many items can obstruct air flow, making it harder for the appliance to maintain a consistent temperature.
• Ensure vents are clear: Blocked air vents can affect cooling efficiency. Make sure items inside the fridge aren’t obstructing airflow.
• Clean door gaskets: Dirty or damaged door gaskets can prevent the fridge from sealing properly, leading to temperature issues. Clean them regularly and replace them if necessary.
• Call for professional help early: If you notice any issues, no matter how small, don’t wait. Calling a professional early can prevent further damage and save you money in the long run.