How Long Do Fridges Last? What to Expect and How to Keep Yours Going

If you’ve ever wondered whether your fridge is getting old, you’re not alone. Most households wonder how many years they can squeeze out of that humming box before it starts costing more in repairs than a new one. The short answer: a well‑maintained fridge usually lasts between 10 and 15 years. Anything less often points to heavy use, cheap models, or neglect.

Brand matters, but it isn’t the only factor. High‑end brands tend to use sturdier components, but even a budget fridge can hit the 12‑year mark if you treat it right. Heavy‑door models, frequent door opening, and low‑temperature settings all add wear. The most common culprits that shorten life are dirty coils, clogged drains, and a badly sealed door.

Key Signs Your Refrigerator Is Nearing the End

Before you start budgeting for a new unit, check for these warning signs. If the fridge is noisy – rattling, buzzing, or clicking – the compressor or fan may be failing. Frost buildup in the freezer, even when it’s set to defrost, signals a bad seal or thermostat. Notice food spoiling faster than usual? That’s a temperature control issue. Also, water pooling at the bottom or a musty smell often means the drain line is blocked.

When any two of these symptoms appear together, it’s time to call a technician. A quick professional check can tell you if a $100 coil cleaning will solve the problem or if the compressor replacement will exceed the fridge’s value.

Simple Maintenance Tricks to Add Years

Cleaning the condenser coils every six months is the single most effective habit. Just pull the fridge away from the wall, use a vacuum or a coil brush, and clear the dust. Keep the door gaskets wiped with warm, soapy water; a tight seal saves energy and reduces compressor strain.

Don’t overload shelves – air needs to circulate. Set the temperature to 37‑40°F (3‑4°C) for the fridge and 0°F (‑18°C) for the freezer; colder settings force the compressor to work harder. Finally, check the level of the fridge; an uneven unit can cause the doors not to close properly, leading to excess wear.

If you catch problems early, many repairs cost under £100 and can push the fridge’s life another 3‑5 years. But when the compressor fails, replacement often costs 50‑70% of a new fridge price, making replacement the smarter choice.

In short, a fridge that’s 10‑15 years old and well‑maintained should still be reliable. Keep an eye on noise, frost, and temperature, clean the coils, seal the doors, and you’ll get the most out of your appliance. When the repair bill starts to outweigh the resale value, start shopping for a new, energy‑efficient model – you’ll save money on electricity and avoid sudden food loss.