Most will agree that replacing their refrigerator isn’t a small investment, as this household staple should last at least 10 years. But how do you know if you really need to replace your refrigerator, or if it just needs some servicing? Here are some signs of common fridge problems that could suggest it’s time for a replacement.
Your Food Is Going Bad Quickly
If your produce, meats, or dairy are spoiling faster than usual, there’s a problem. It could be using a lot more energy than it should while attempting to keep food cold, which means you’re wasting energy and paying more than you should on your electric bill. While investing in a new refrigerator and refrigerator installation service may seem costly at first, you will stop wasting money on spoiled food or a high electric bill.
The Motor Is Hot
Some heat from the back of your refrigerator is normal, but an excessive amount of heat is a sign that something is wrong. While this may be solved with replacing your fridge’s coils, it’s likely time for a replacement if the unit also has other signs of inefficiency.
There’s Frost in Your Freezer
While you obviously want your freezer to keep your food frozen, you shouldn’t have to chisel away ice just so you can reach your bag of vegetables. First, try defrosting the freezer; if you plug it back in afterwards and the problem continues, it may be time to consider a replacement.
It’s More Than 10 Years Old
The older an appliance is, the more costly it becomes to repair it. If your refrigerator is more than 10 years old and no longer efficient, it’s time to start looking for a new one.