How Long Do Refrigerators Last – Signs Your Refrigerator Might be Dying

Refrigerators are really long lasting appliances. Much like any other home appliance, like air conditioners and such, refrigerators can potentially last you years and decades if you simply make sure you maintain them properly. There are a lot of different parts to a refrigerator, and often one or more of them might break down when used extensively. While this is extremely common, you might not see your refrigerator come into any other problem any time soon. So, if you are wondering how long do refrigerators last, the answer is objective to a certain extent, but last more than a decade on average.

How Long Do Refrigerators Last – Explained 2023

How long a refrigerator lasts depends on a number of factors, including how often the door is opened, what type of food is stored in it, and how well it is maintained. On average, refrigerators last about 10 years. However, models that are more energy-efficient and have features like automatic defrosting can last up to 20 years.

The key to prolonging the life of a refrigerator is to keep the door closed as much as possible to maintain the cold temperature. In addition, it is important to clean the coils and gaskets regularly to prevent dust and dirt from build-up.

By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your refrigerator runs smoothly for many years to come.

How Long Do Refrigerators Last?

A refrigerator is an expensive appliance, so you want it to last as long as possible. How long a fridge lasts depends on a number of factors, including how often it’s used, the quality of the unit, and how well it’s maintained.

The average lifespan of a refrigerator is around 13 years. However, higher-end models may last 20 years or more. If you use your fridge frequently, it will likely need to be replaced sooner than if it’s used less often. It’s also important to keep your fridge clean and free of debris. Dust can build up on the coils and cause the unit to overheat, which can shorten its life. If you take good care of your refrigerator, it will provide you with years of reliable service.

If you own a bigger, higher capacity refrigerator, something like a side-by-side refrigerator, be aware it might be a lot more difficult to fix up. Frost free refrigerators do last a little longer since they are made with durability in mind.

Signs your Refrigerator is dying

Is your fridge on its last legs? There are some telltale signs that your fridge is about to bite the dust. If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s time to start shopping for a new refrigerator.

A refrigerator is a long-term investment, and it’s important to know the signs that indicate it may be time for a replacement. One clue that your fridge is on its last legs is increased energy usage. If your electric bill spikes for no apparent reason, it could be due to your fridge working overtime to keep things cool. Another sign that your fridge is nearing the end of its lifespan is diminishing performance.

If you find that food isn’t staying as cold as it used to or condensation is building up inside, it’s time to start shopping for a new model. Additionally, if your fridge starts making strange noises, this could be an indication that the compressor is failing.

Lastly, if your fridge suddenly leaks water, this is a definite sign that it needs to be replaced. By being aware of these warning signs, you can make sure to replace your fridge before it causes any major problems.

How to Make Your Refrigerator Last Longer?

Now, there are multiple ways you can make your refrigerator last much longer. For that, you need to make sure you get on with at least some basic maintenance so that they do not break down without notice, and are generally clean to use, and effectively get their job done.

To make your refrigerator last longer, follow these few steps.

1. Keep the gaskets clean: One of the major concerns with spoiled food is an unclean door gasket. The rubber covering on the door that acts as a vacuum seal, keeping the cold air inside. You need to make sure you clean these regularly, especially on the insides. With gunk and dirt forming on the inside, slowly your door will not close as well, and cause odors to build up inside the refrigerator. Make sure you clean the gaskets once every month to help your refrigerator function better and last longer.
2. Clean the condenser coils: Condenser coils often have a build up of grime and dirt on it. This limits its ability to dissipate heat and slowly causes the refrigerator to lose out on its potential. Making sure you clean the condenser coils semi-annually is the best way to make your refrigerator function at maximum capacity, as well as last much longer than usual. Condenser coils are located in the back end, and are generally out in the open, hence the continuous build-up of gunk on them.
3. Change the water filter: If you have a refrigerator that comes with a water dispenser, chances are the filter on it needs to be changed by now. This is a primary cause of odors inside your fridge and possible illness to whoever drinks from the dispenser. It is crucial that you change or clean the filter regularly to avoid any issues, with your family, or with the refrigerator itself.
4. Do not put weight on the fridge: This is a very Indian thing to do, but we tend to start storing things above our refrigerators. That is not ideal. It limits the refrigerators ability to dissipate heat, which has two effects, your fridge does not work as effectively, plus it might soon break down due to excessive heat build-up inside. Make sure you do not keep anything on the fridge, and leave some room around it to help it better dissipate heat.

Which Brand of Refrigerators are the most Durable?

There are many factors to consider when purchasing a refrigerator, such as size, style, and features. However, one of the most important considerations is durability. After all, you want your fridge to last for years without any problems. So, which brand of refrigerator is the most durable?

According to Consumer Reports, LG is the top-rated brand for durability. In their latest survey, LG refrigerators had an overall score of 87 out of 100, with reliability being the main factor considered.

So, if you’re looking for a durable fridge that will stand the test of time, LG and Frigidaire are both excellent choices.

While there are many brands on the market, some are better than others when it comes to durability. In general, refrigerators from LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool are considered to be some of the most durable on the market. These brands use high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure that their refrigerators can withstand regular use.

In addition, they offer excellent warranties and customer support in case anything does go wrong. As a result, if you are looking for a durable refrigerator, these are three brands that you should consider.

Also read – Best Refrigerators: Guides, Reviews & Comparisons

How to choose the right Refrigerator?

When it comes to appliances, the refrigerator is one of the most important investments you can make for your home. Not only does it keep your food fresh and your drinks cold, but it also plays a vital role in regulating the temperature of your kitchen.

It’s no secret that appliances can be expensive, so when you make a major purchase like a refrigerator, you want to be sure that it’s going to last. Unfortunately, there is no guaranteed way to know how long any given fridge will last.

However, some brands have a reputation for durability, so that may be a good place to start your search. For example, Whirlpool, Samsung and LG are both known for making high-quality refrigerators that can withstand years of heavy use. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, Samsung is also a good choice. While their fridges may not be quite as durable as the others on this list, they are typically more affordable.

Ultimately, the best way to choose a refrigerator is to read reviews and compare features. By taking the time to do your research, you can be confident that you’re making the best decision for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Conclusion

From our research, we can conclude that refrigerators last an average of 13 years. However, there are many factors that can affect a refrigerator’s lifespan, such as how often it’s used, what type of model it is, and how well it’s maintained. For example, commercial grade refrigerators are designed to withstand heavy use and last an average of 15 years, while less expensive models may only last 10 years. Furthermore, proper care and maintenance can help extend a refrigerator’s life by several years. Thus, while there is no definitive answer to the question “how long do refrigerators last,” we can say that with proper care and upkeep, most refrigerators will provide many years of reliable service.

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