Refrigerators are durable appliances. But of course, like any other device, their lifespan is not infinite. Even though high-quality examples can last about ten years and more, they will eventually require repairs or replacement. Considering their food-preserving purpose, it can be quite inconvenient if a malfunction occurs. In some cases, repairs won’t be costly, but they can pile up over time. Not to mention the costs of losing food due to spoiling or higher bills because of energy inefficiency. However, if you pay enough attention, you will be able to recognize warning signs you need to replace your refrigerator and react on time.
When Do You Need To Replace Your Refrigerator?
Today, every household is using refrigerators. They are convenient appliances we got so used to that now we can’t even imagine another way to preserve our fresh food. Technology is also constantly advancing, so we even have refrigerators with advanced features. But, you need to maintain your refrigerator for everything to work as intended. And one part of that maintenance lies in recognizing the warning signs that something is wrong. This will allow you to react, repair it promptly, or eventually decide to replace it.
Generally speaking, here are some of the most common signs telling you that you need to repair or replace your refrigerator:
- Food is spoiling much faster than usual
- You are planning a relocation
- Your refrigerator makes too much noise
- Monthly bills are increasing
- Too much cleaning and defrosting
- Condensation when and where it shouldn’t be
Food Is Spoiling Much Faster Than Usual
One sign that something is wrong with your refrigerator is when your food starts to spoil much faster. Because the refrigerator’s purpose is to save your food, at least up to the expiration day, this is a huge problem. The first thing to do is check if the temperature inside your fridge is right. Usually, the best temperature is about 40 degrees Fahrenheit inside a refrigerator and zero, or a bit lower, inside the freezer. However, there are dozens of reasons that can cause the wrong temperature. Unless you had set your temperature wrong by accident, you should call a professional to check it. Eventually, if this repeats after the repair, it can be a definite sign you need to replace your fridge as soon as you can.
You Are Planning A Relocation
Sometimes, it doesn’t have to be broken, but the situation can force you to replace some of your belongings. If you are planning to relocate, it can be a perfect time to reevaluate your appliances’ condition, including your refrigerator. There is no point in transporting your fridge to a new home if it’s in bad shape or too old. In some cases, the costs of transporting such heavy items should be redirected to buying new ones. Depending on the situation, your new place might already have a refrigerator, which is especially true if you are renting. In that case, you have a few options:
- You can find storage space for your refrigerator – a convenient, eco-friendly, and energy-efficient green solution for your belongings can be a good storage option.
- You can sell your fridge – either by organizing a yard sale or over the internet.
- Or, you can eventually find additional space in a new place – a basement or a garage could be good options to save it for the next time you might need it.
Your Refrigerator Makes Too Much Noise
Since almost all large kitchen appliances tend to make some kind of noise, you can expect that from refrigerators as well. However, the sound you should hear is not loud and sounds more like humming than anything else. Sometimes, people don’t even notice the sound it produces. But, if it suddenly becomes louder and continues to be so, it means something might not be working the way it should. It can be a malfunction as small as with fan motors, but it can also be a severe problem like a malfunctioning motor. Anyway, it’s an excellent time to consider repair or replacement soon.
Monthly Bills Are Increasing
One of the most common problems with older appliances is that they use way too much power. Not necessarily due to malfunction but simply because they are not made energy-efficient. This may not affect your monthly bills because people got used to similar payments. However, if the number starts to rise rapidly, it may indicate some of your older devices require repairs. And being one of the larger household energy consumers, your refrigerator should be the first to check. If it shows that it needs a repair, then the problem is not that big. But if it continues to consume too much electricity to maintain the temperature, it’s time to fold. Even if your old model is not broken, consider the next thing: New models are using modern energy-efficient technology that will help even lower your monthly bills. Overall, more than enough reason to buy a new refrigerator warranty.
Too Much Cleaning And Defrosting
Even though most new refrigerators are “frost-free”, they require you to occasionally clean and defrost them. Let’s say once a year for defrosting and twice a year for cleaning. However, if you find yourself doing it too often due to suspicious stains, mold, or ice, it might be a good indication that you need a new fridge.
Condensation When And Where It Shouldn’t Be
We place all types of food in our refrigerators, from fresh food to water to fully prepared meals. Typically, this will cause mild condensation inside the fridge. But, if the amount is starting to increase, it can be a good indicator that it’s not cooling correctly. The cause for this can be anything from flawed temperature regulation to damaged outer rubber sealing on the door. In some cases, repairs might fix the problem, but sometimes it can go beyond them. If that is the case, buying a new appliance may be the only solution.
Of course, there are many other reasons to replace any of your appliances, from small signs that something is broken to situations where it just makes sense to replace your refrigerator with a new one. Knowing at least the most common ones will help you maintain and keep everything in working condition and reduce your living costs.
Author’s Bio:
Jason Barkley – Since 2011, Jason has been learning everything there is about kitchen appliances. As a practical person and repairman, he got used to finding solutions for everyday household problems. When he is not fixing, advising, or writing about common daily issues, he occupies himself with reading and browsing the internet.
