At a Glance:
Repair or Replace - How Long Do Refrigerators Last?
Common Refrigerator Issues that Frustrate Homeowners
Top Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Refrigerator
Signs Your Refrigerator Needs to Be Replaced
Top Recommendations for a New Refrigerator
How Long Do Refrigerators Last - Frequently Asked Questions
Refrigerators are the most important appliance in the kitchen. So when you start to experience issues with your fridge, it can be challenging to decide when it's time to repair or replace the unit. Most refrigerators are designed to last at least ten years; however, there are several easy ways to maintain your fridge so that it can last as long as possible. Check out these tips and tricks that explain common refrigerators repairs, cleaning and maintenance advice, and signs that it's time to invest in a new appliance.
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It doesn't matter if your refrigerator broke or if you're just looking to upgrade, Urner's Appliance is the place to go. Our refrigerator selection includes a wide variety of brands and styles.
Shop All RefrigeratorsRepair or Replace - How Long Do Refrigerators Last?
With regular cleaning, you can expect your refrigerator to last 10 to 12 years. However, it is essential to regularly inspect condenser coils, door seals, and air circulation vents to ensure the appliance is performing optimally. Often, a malfunctioning fridge can be rectified with a replacement part or cleaning maintenance. Most of these solutions are easily DIYed and should be the first step you take when your fridge goes on the fritz.
Related: Deep Freezer Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Features for Your Family
Common Refrigerator Issues that Frustrate Homeowners
#1 Not Cooling
If your refrigerator is not cold, you most likely have a problem with the condenser coils. These are located at the back of the fridge. Begin by unplugging the appliance and thoroughly cleaning the coils. If the problem persists, consult a repair technician to evaluate the condition of the condenser motor. It may be as simple as replacing a fan or coil to get your fridge up and running to perfection.
#2 Noisy Refrigerator
While it's normal to hear some humming from a refrigerator, it shouldn't always be loud or noisy. Damaged fans cause noisy refrigerators. Fridges have two fans, an evaporator, and a condenser fan. Both run simultaneously and work to cool the appliance. If either of these fans is broken, the fridge will make a loud noise. Replacing a damaged fan immediately is best to avoid further issues with the condenser or motor.
#3 Leaking Water
If you see water leaking from your fridge, don't panic. A blocked drain or damaged waterline usually causes this problem. Start by checking the defrost drain in the freezer, and flush the line with warm water. Next, check the water lines on the back of the fridge for damage. Common issues include tears, mold, and clogs. However, replacing the compromised line should solve the leaking water issue.
#4 Constantly Running
The fridge runs intermittently to maintain its temperature. If you hear your fridge running constantly, there is a problem with the condenser. The issue is typically resolved by vacuuming dust and debris particles from the front and back of the fridge. Dust buildup will trap heat and prompt the refrigerator to run more often. Not only is a constant cycling fridge annoying to hear, but it also results in abnormally high energy bills.
#5 Ice Buildup
Excessive humidity can cause ice to build up in your freezer. Things like leaving the freezer door open too long or a damaged door seal can cause the unit to overrun. Eventually, ice will build up. If it is too much for auto defrost to handle, call an appliance technician to assess the cause and properly remove the ice without causing damage to the rest of the appliance.
Related: LG Refrigerator Reviews
Top Maintenance Tips to Extend the Life of Your Refrigerator
Establish a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Regularly cleaning the inside of your refrigerator eliminates odor and bacteria. Remove everything from the shelves and bins and wipe the surfaces with a kitchen cleaner and cool water. If your fridge smells funky, add baking soda to your cleaning regimen.
A thorough, fresh clean should include the exterior as well. Vacuum around the base of the fridge and check the condenser coils in the back for dust buildup.
Keep the Fridge at Recommended Temperatures
Do not lower your refrigerator beyond the recommended temperatures provided by the manufacturer. Doing so will make the fridge work harder to stay cool, so it will need to run more frequently. Not only will this result in higher energy bills, but it will also burn out the current condenser fans and motor quicker.
Don't Overfill the Fridge
While bulk grocery deals can be tempting, be careful not to overfill your refrigerator or freezer. Leave space above items to allow air to circulate throughout the unit. An overstocked refrigerator can block the vents and cause the condenser to kick on more frequently. This will reduce the efficiency of your refrigerator and wear out the condenser and motor faster.
Signs Your Refrigerator Needs to Be Replaced
- Hot coils - If you notice the heat is coming from the base of your refrigerator, check the coils in the back by hovering your hand over the metal. If there is an uncomfortable amount of heat radiating from the condenser coils, the motor is malfunctioning.
- Older appliance - The average life expectancy of a fridge is 10-12 years. So if you notice a lot of problems with your fridge and the appliance is old, it's better to replace it than repair it.
- Not cooling - Signs your fridge is not getting to temperature include drinks taking a long time to feel cold, produce or meat spoiling quickly, and unusually high energy bills.
- Condensation - Excess water drips or a damp feeling on the inside or outside of the fridge as a sign of condensation. This problem hints at an issue with the motor or condenser. Unfortunately, this refrigerator problem has severe consequences, including mold and bacteria buildup that can contaminate veggies and fruits.
- Frosty freezer - If your freezer has excessive ice buildup for no reason, this is a sign that your freezer can no longer regulate temperature properly and needs to be replaced.
Top Recommendations for a New Refrigerator
GE® 17.5 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top-Freezer Refrigerator
GE 17.5 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel Top-Freezer Refrigerator
This GE refrigerator is designed with a space-efficient floor print and impressive storage capacity. The fresh food section has several flexible features, including a sliding deli drawer and adjustable shelves. Easy-to-use temperature controls regulate the fridge and freezer section to precise degrees. There is even room in the freezer to add an ice maker!
GE is known for making reliable, high-performing home appliances; this refrigerator is no exception! Homeowners have given this unit an overwhelming five-star rating. Check out this reviewer from a happy shopper:
"Outstanding, energy efficient appliance! I honestly know that I purchased an outstanding refrigerator. I also know that this 2-door, fingerprint resistant, stainless-steel refrigerator is very easy to clean. The shelves are easy to slide out and place wherever is needed. The freezer has ample room for freezing meats and other frozen foods. I trust GE because I know they make the best appliances that last a long time."
Frigidaire Gallery® 27.8 Cu. Ft. Smudge-Proof® Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Frigidaire Gallery Smudge Proof Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
French door-style refrigerators are the most popular fridge configuration. Flexible storage options and a sleek design make this Frigidaire refrigerator just as stylish as it is functional. Favorite features of this stainless steel french door refrigerator include:
- Auto-close doors
- A premium water filter that reduces up to 99% of contaminants
- Eco-friendly, energy-certified appliances
- Adjustable temperature drawer
- Smudge-proof stainless steel
This Frigidaire Gallery French door refrigerator has over 2,500 five-star reviews! Comments praise its flexible storage options, premium cooling, and seamless installation like this one:
"A perfect fit! This fridge is perfect for our family's needs. The shelves are adjustable for our varying needs and the best part of this fridge are the super fresh produce drawers. I can definitely see how much longer our produce lasts and so we waste less money on fruits and veggies. So glad we got this fridge!"
LG 27.2 Cu. Ft. PrintProof™ Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
LG PrintProof Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
This LG refrigerator has a contemporary four-door design. Discreet recessed handles and flat panel doors give this appliance a high-end, sophisticated look. This refrigerator is built to withstand busy family life and has several convenient features such as:
- Huge 27 Cu. Ft. Interior Capacity
- Slim door ice maker
- Door cooling technology that keeps door contents extra cool
- Precise temperature control system that extends the life of fresh and frozen foods
- Adjustable storage components
This LG side-by-side refrigerator gets high praise from customers. Its combination of chic styling and high-capacity storage options make it a top-rated choice. Check out this five-star homeowner review:
"Spaciousness. Love my LG Refrigerator! Very spacious and everything I use is easily accessible. We eat a lot of fresh veggies so the large drawer is my favorite! The freezer allows me to sort my food to make dinner choices stress free. Very happy with my LG appliances!"
Related: What Are the Top Products from Kitchenaid Appliances?
How Long Do Refrigerators Last - Frequently Asked Questions
How often does a fridge need maintenance?
Refrigerators should be cleaned at least once a month to prevent odors, mold, and other common issues. Most fridges go 5 to 7 years without any substantial maintenance needs. However, frequently cleaning and inspecting your appliance is a proactive way to ensure your fridge lasts as long as possible.
What is the average lifespan of a refrigerator?
The average lifespan of a fridge is 10 to 12 years, with some high-end models lasting as long as 18.
What are the signs of a refrigerator going bad?
The most common signs your refrigerator is going bad are:
- The refrigerator is not cooling
- The refrigerator is constantly running
- Condenser coils feel hot
- The freezer is frequently icing over
- Condensation is forming on the inside or outside of the fridge doors
- Unusually high energy bills
Following refrigerator maintenance and cleaning tips is an excellent way to extend the life of your appliance and save money on unnecessary repairs. Establish a regular cleaning schedule that includes the interior and exterior of your refrigerator. Perform routine inspections on the appliance to ensure it runs at peak performance. If you experience lots of issues with the fridge and it is older than ten years old, consider investing in a new unit.
Why Trust Urner's and Urner's Mattress?
Urner’s started on the back of a bicycle - yup! A bicycle! David E. Urner, a local high school teacher, who spent his summer months selling Wear Ever cookware off the back of a bicycle (think 100+ degrees). David teamed up with another local teacher, Errol P. Janes to create “a new type of store – one that would cater exclusively to providing an easier way of living for the women of Kern County”, and on September 19, 1919, Home Appliance Store was opened to the public. The store boasted a rather impressive selection of “modern” appliances, including a washing machine, a freezer, a gas range, an automatic dishwasher, and an assortment of small appliances. Since then, Urner’s has expanded selections to appliances, furniture, mattresses, and cabinetry!
For nearly one century, the Urner family and Urner’s business have both been an integral part of Bakersfield and Kern County, with contributions to the community (Better Business Bureau, Sister City Projects, Bakersfield Symphony), charity (Ronald McDonald House, St. Jude’s Dream Home, House of Hope) and education (CSU Bakersfield, Ray Dezember Leadership Development Center. Explore the website, visit the store, or join us socially. We’re all about home, all about fun, and all about you… and we’re ready to make you a part of the Urner’s family today.
Shop Refrigerators at Urner’s
Stop by any of the 6 Urner’s and Urner’s Mattress locations in Bakersfield, CA to see what a difference buying local with an experienced staff can make. Or shop for Refrigerators online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find your next refrigerator— whether you call us at 661-396-8400, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.