Signs a Refrigerator Is Dying

 

The refrigerator is one of the most essential parts of your home. Without it, modern life would be virtually unimaginable. That’s why having a dying fridge on your hands can be a real pain. And whether you need to repair or replace your fridge, you’ll have to fork over some cash no matter what. 

But how do you know whether your fridge troubles are minor problems or signs of impending doom? Below, we’ve outlined some of the most common signs a refrigerator is on its last legs.

• Food spoils faster than expected
• Condensation on the outside
• Excess frost buildup
• Cracks in the shell
• Loud or silent operation
• Hot coils
• Over ten years old

8 Common Signs a Refrigerator Is Dying

1. Food is going bad too quickly.

If you notice food spoils before its printed expiration date, the fridge probably can’t maintain a cold enough internal temperature. This could be the result of several possible problems. Sometimes, the refrigerator is just old, while other times, there’s a specific problem with the motor or the gasket.

2. Condensation appears on the outside of the fridge.

Have you noticed that your fridge door seems to be “sweating”? This is one of the most common signs a refrigerator is dying, and it’s usually a problem with the gasket or seal. Refrigerator door seals are crucial for keeping cold and warm air in. If there is a tear or break in the door seal, cold air will leak out, leading to spoiled food, excess energy usage, and inflated electric bills.

Depending on the fridge's age and the damage level, door seals can usually be replaced. You can buy a gasket repair kit or have a professional perform the repairs.

3. Excess frost.

If your refrigerator or freezer seems to be building up excess frost, this can also indicate a problem with the internal temperature. Again, you may need a professional to assess the cause of the damage, but it’s certainly worth investigating to make sure the problem doesn’t get worse.

4. Your refrigerator is abnormally noisy.

The motor on your fridge should occasionally make a noise while running. However, if your fridge is always annoyingly loud, it usually means the motor is being overworked. The motor is necessary for regulating the fridge's internal temperature, but it shouldn't need to constantly run at full speed.

5. Your refrigerator never makes any noise.

On the other hand, if your fridge is completely silent, it might mean the motor isn’t running enough—and you might need to get a professional to look into the issue.

6. The coils feel too hot.

Because refrigerators use a lot of power, they will always emit some heat. However, if the coils (found on the back of the fridge) are constantly excessively hot, the fridge probably isn’t running efficiently and may get worse without intervention.

7. Cracks in the shell.

Cracks in the interior or exterior walls of the fridge are never a good sign. Like the gasket, the refrigerator walls help keep cold air inside. Cracks in the shell tend to be very difficult to repair, so you’ll need a professional opinion on whether to repair or replace them.

8. The refrigerator is over ten years old.

Most refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you’re having any other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you’ll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge already on its way out.

How Long Do Refrigerators Last?

The average life of a refrigerator lasts around 10-20 years, depending on the type and quality. Built-in refrigerators can last up to 20 years, while standard models usually last about 10-15 years. Side-by-side refrigerator lifespans typically last around 10 years, and bottom-freezer models can last up to 13 years. If your fridge is reaching these ages and showing issues, it might be time for a new one.

Repair or Replace?

When deciding whether to repair or replace your refrigerator, consider these points:

• Cost of Repairs vs. Cost of a New Fridge: Get some quotes for repairs and compare them to the price of a new fridge. If repairs cost more than 50% of a new one, replacement is likely the better option.
• Age of the Fridge: If your fridge is over ten years old, has major problems, or is just past its refrigerator lifespan, then it might be time to upgrade it.
• Warranty Status: Check if your fridge is still under warranty, which could cover some repair costs.

While buying a new fridge can seem pricey, newer models are usually more energy-efficient, saving you money in the long run. If you're considering a replacement, Howard's has a great Refrigerator Buying Guide to help you navigate our selection of refrigerators and freezers.

Looking to Finance?

Extend your budget and apply today for special promotional financing. Howard's can work with you to find flexible financing options, and you can receive 18 months of no interest. Learn more about our financing options online today or contact us for more details.

 

Upgrade Your Refrigerator Today

If you're ready to explore new refrigerators for sale, Howard's offers a wide range of refrigerators and freezers. With over 75 years of experience, Howard's provides free next-day delivery on qualifying purchases and various appliance financing options, including 18 months of no interest. Shop one of our 13 locations or browse our selection online at Howards.com.

Related readings from our blog:

• Coping With a Failed Fridge - How to Quickly Replace Your Refrigerator
• Why Is My Refrigerator Not Cooling?
• How to Dispose of Appliances & Reduce Your Environmental Impact

Frequently Asked Questions Refrigerator Maintenance

How often should I clean the coils on my refrigerator?

You should clean the coils every six months to keep your fridge running efficiently and prevent overheating.

What is the average life of a refrigerator?

Most fridges last between 10 to 20 years, depending on the model and how well it’s maintained.

Can I replace a refrigerator gasket myself?

Yes, you can, but make sure it's installed properly to keep your fridge efficient.

How can I extend the life of my refrigerator?

Regular maintenance, like cleaning the coils and checking the seals, can help keep your fridge running longer.

How do I know if my refrigerator compressor is dying?

If your fridge is making loud noises, not cooling properly, or the compressor feels excessively hot, it could be a sign that the compressor is failing.

When should you replace a fridge?

Consider replacing your fridge if it’s over ten years old, requires frequent repairs, or if the cost of repairs exceeds 50% of the price of a new fridge.