Two good general rules to keep in mind are that if repairing your refrigerator costs less than half the price of buying a new one, those repairs are generally worth doing. It is almost always worthwhile to repair built-in refrigerators. Not only are they less expensive to repair, but they tend to have a longer lifespan anyway. While it's generally cheaper to repair your refrigerator rather than completely replace it, there are a few factors you should consider.
For example, if your refrigerator is past 13 and it seems to be closing, it may be time to replace it. However, if you are wondering if you can replace a refrigerator, the answer is yes. It is worth repairing built-in refrigerators if they are relatively new. If you only bought it five or 10 years ago, hire a reliable refrigerator repair technician.
This type of refrigerator will last another decade after repairs under the right circumstances. A typical refrigerator has a shelf life of 10 to 20 years. The longer you have your refrigerator, the higher the potential cost of repair, says The Money Pit. If the refrigerator is less than eight years old, consider repairing it.
If the refrigerator is over 15 years old, consider replacing it. If the refrigerator is between 8 and 15 years old, other factors must be taken into account, such as the type of refrigerator and its environmental efficiency. You can often get away with a repair of just about anything. Consider replacing it if the unit is over 15 years old.
Newer models are more energy efficient, contributing to savings. In addition, replacement is the most likely scenario if the freezer stops working. If you're still unsure whether you should replace or repair your refrigerator, a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is that the longer you have your refrigerator, the higher the potential repair cost. It is possible to make the appliance last a full twenty years, but repair costs will eventually accrue.
A trained technician will evaluate your appliance to understand the problem before recommending appropriate repairs. Top-freezer refrigerators should be repaired within three years, considered for repair within three to six years, and replaced if they are older than seven years. However, if you still have problems after defrosting, you can call a technician who specializes in home appliance repair or consider buying a new refrigerator. A good quality household appliance will not need repairs very often, so many homeowners are willing to pay a higher price for it.
