A refrigerator’s lifespan can vary by make and model. This is why it is important to follow maintenance and care instructions to ensure you get the longest fridge lifespan. So how long do fridges last? A fridge is made up of dozens of individual components that can affect lifespan. The motor, coolant fans, and electrical components can all break down at different times, requiring the help of a trained refrigerator technician to get your fridge working again.
Let’s look at some of the signs your refrigerator is dying so you can and find out how long should a fridge last so you stay on top of maintenance and stop potential breakdowns before they happen.
How Long Should A Refrigerator Last?
As you open the fridge door to grab a snack, you may wonder how long do fridges last? The average lifespan for the average fridge size is between 10 and 15 years. This can vary by the model and how your fridge is used. A fridge that is well maintained and kept clean should have a longer lifespan.
Fixing and replacing any components that break down during the lifespan of your fridge is another important way to give it a longer life. Watching for signs of wear and ageing will help prevent small problems from turning into expensive repairs.
How to extend the lifespan of your fridge
The more effort you put into keeping your fridge clean and well maintained will improve its lifespan. Here are some helpful tips to extend the life of your fridge.
Clean the door seals
Loose or damaged gaskets can reduce the energy efficiency of your fridge. It can also cause your food to spoil due to poor cooling. Clean the gasket regularly with warm water to remove residue and food build-up which can prevent the door from sealing properly. Close the door and check for gaps or air leakage. If there is any sign of a poor seal, then contact your fridge repair technician.
Make sure there is airflow inside
It is important to allow for airflow around all sides of your refrigerator. Do not allow your fridge air vents to be blocked or store heavy objects on top of your fridge. Keep approximately one inch of clearance between the fridge and cabinets and counters. This doesn’t apply to fridges label zero-clearance or front vented.
Clean the coils
Your fridge stays cool thanks to condenser coils which house refrigerants. If these coils become covered in dust or dirt, it can prevent your fridge from cooling properly. This can cause your fridge to work harder, increasing your energy costs. Improve energy efficiency by removing the grille located at the bottom of your fridge and vacuuming the fridge coils. This can be done with the brush attachment. Coils can also be located at the back of your fridge so consult your owner’s manual.
Level the fridge
Have you ever wondered how to level a fridge to improve energy efficiency and reduce the chances of breakdown? Balancing your fridge takes a little patience, but can result in significant improvements to how your fridge operates. Start by standing back and identifying which direction your fridge is leaning. Place a level on the fridge for a more accurate reading. Try gently rocking the fridge to see if you can resettle it in a flatter position. If this still doesn’t work then adjust the feet at the bottom of your fridge. Check your level again to ensure your fridge is sitting flat.
Call The Professionals
If your fridge is not cooling properly or is making noises, it may be time to call a refrigerator repair technician. The team at Fix It Right Appliance Repair can quickly identify issues and help increase the lifespan of your refrigerator.
