Refrigerators rarely fail overnight. More often, they show subtle signs of decline—perhaps a louder hum or a dip in cooling efficiency—as they age.
When these issues arise, you’re faced with a choice: repair the trusty old fridge or replace it altogether. At first glance, a quick fix might seem like the economical route, but the costs can add up faster than you’d expect.
In this guide, we’ll break down when it makes sense to repair your refrigerator and when replacement is the smarter move.
We’ll explore the typical refrigerator lifespan of various models and highlight key indicators that your fridge is on its last legs.
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Shop RefrigeratorsSigns Your Refrigerator Needs Repair
The first step is to know what to look for if your refrigerator is wearing out. It’s less common for a refrigerator to break entirely than for specific systems to stop running as well as they could.
Here are a few signs that your refrigerator needs repair:
- It’s not as cold as it should be. If your fridge feels warmer than usual or food is spoiling faster, it could be struggling to maintain the right temperature.
- It’s getting louder. A noisy fridge, especially with new or unusual sounds, could mean the motor or compressor is wearing out.
- It runs more often. If the motor kicks on frequently, your fridge is working overtime, which can increase energy bills.
- You notice leaks. Water pooling under or around your fridge can lead to mold and floor damage—this needs immediate attention.
Many of these problems are fixable issues. When deciding to repair or replace a fridge, consider whether there is one problem or several that need to be fixed. This will affect your repair costs and potentially the appliance’s longevity.
➜ Learn More: Spencer's Refrigerators: Arizona's Coolest Selection
When to Replace Your Refrigerator
Wondering whether to repair or replace your fridge? Start with a simple question: “How long do refrigerators typically last?”
Most are built to run for about 10 years, and many come with warranties to match. For instance, Samsung offers a 10-year warranty on compressors—a part that often fails when fridges break down.
As your fridge gets older, its value drops. A $1,000 refrigerator from 10 years ago isn’t worth $1,000 today. If it’s nearing the end of its life, sinking $500 into repairs might not make sense when you could put that money toward a new one.
On the flip side, a younger fridge—especially one still under warranty—might be worth fixing since it retains more value and repair costs could be covered.
Two key factors usually decide the fate of your fridge: its age and the cost of repairs. When fixing it costs more than the appliance is worth, replacement often becomes the smarter choice.
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Cost Comparison: Repair vs. Replacement
Refrigerator repairs aren’t cheap—on average, they run about $650. Simple fixes might cost as little as $200, while major overhauls can climb past $1,300.
These numbers can help you decide: repair or replace? A $200 fix is a bargain compared to a new fridge, but dropping $650—or more—on an older model might not pay off.
New refrigerators typically range from $600 to $2,300, with high-end options hitting $5,000. Let’s say your budget for a new one is $1,500. If repairs are creeping toward $1,000, you’re probably better off buying new.
It’s not just about the upfront cost, though. Think long-term. A repair that keeps your fridge humming for years could be a win. But if it’s an aging unit likely to break again soon, those repair dollars might be better spent on a fresh start.
➜ Learn More: Your Guide to Counter Depth vs Standard Depth Refrigerators
What to Look for When Buying a New Fridge
Solving the refrigerator repair vs. replace conundrum is only the first step. Now you have to choose a refrigerator that lasts. Here are a few things to check for if you haven’t bought a new refrigerator recently:
- Solid Warranty: Pick a fridge with a reliable warranty to cover repairs or ensure longevity.
- Customer Reviews: Check what owners say—how’s their fridge holding up after a few years?
- Energy Efficiency: Go for a model that saves on power bills with top-notch efficiency ratings.
- Modern Features: Upgrade to perks like LED lighting, precise temperature settings, or even smart tech.
Also, don’t neglect your size and capacity needs. Make sure your refrigerator is large enough to support your family but isn’t too big to fit in your kitchen.
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Top Refrigerator Picks for Replacement
If you decide that it’s time to replace your refrigerator instead of repairing it, there are plenty of options to choose from. These can match your current budget while keeping up with your reliability needs. Here are six top refrigerators that are designed for different households, lifestyles, and budgets:
GE Profile 36 in. 27.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop GE Profile 36 in. French Door Refrigerator
Swapping out your old refrigerator opens the door to some exciting upgrades.
Take the GE Profile fridge, for example—it features a bonus drawer with its own climate control, perfect for chilling wine or keeping produce crisp.
Plus, its spacious design is a game-changer for big households. With sleek finishes and smart tech options, it’s a stylish, practical step up from the basics.
⭐Featured GE Profile Refrigerator Review:
“It is so user-friendly. The back panel lighting makes it easy to see everything. The freezer is huge yet is easy to access everything in it.”
LG 36 in. 30.7 Cu. Ft. PrintProof Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
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Opting for an LG French door refrigerator brings a smart, high-performing appliance into your kitchen.
With the ThinQ app, you can control settings and diagnose issues right from your phone—no guesswork needed. Hosting a party?
The IcePlus™ system boosts ice production fast, keeping your drinks chilled. Plus, it’s among the roomiest options out there, giving you plenty of space for all your favorites.
⭐Featured LG Refrigerator Review:
“This is the roomiest fridge we’ve ever owned with nice deep shelves and plenty of gallon storage on the door. Most importantly, the LG is so much quieter and I believe much more efficient.”
Whirlpool 36 in. 26.8 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop Whirlpool 36 in. French Door Refrigerator
Replacing your old refrigerator could create an opportunity to invest in a more efficient model.
This Whirlpool refrigerator is Energy Star® certified, which means it uses less power than comparable appliances.
The LED lights inside make it easy to find specific items, while the Platter Pocket maximizes your storage options. You will also love the extra space that comes with the
In-Door-Ice® storage.
⭐Featured Whirlpool Refrigerator Review:
"Everything about it is just better than our previous refrigerator. The freezer draw opens farther. The door shelves are larger. Ice maker works so much better. Overall a great improvement for us."
Bosch 800 Series 36 in. 20.5 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
Shop Bosch 800 Series 36 in. French Door Refrigerator
Bosch is the go-to brand if you’re after a refrigerator that oozes luxury and sophistication.
This model boasts a sleek bonus drawer and aligns seamlessly with your kitchen counters for a polished look. Its VitaFresh® technology keeps the interior just right, helping your groceries stay fresh longer.
With a top-notch Bosch fridge like this, your food gets the premium treatment it deserves.
Frigidaire Gallery 36 in. 25.6 Cu. Ft. Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Shop Frigidaire Gallery 36 in. Side-by-Side Refrigerator
Frigidaire stays ahead with cutting-edge food preservation tech.
Its EvenTemp™ cooling system eliminates warm spots that can spoil your groceries, while the CrispSeal® drawers lock in the perfect humidity for your produce.
This fridge from Frigidaire is a dream for anyone who loves an organized setup to cut down on food waste.
⭐Featured Frigidaire Refrigerator Review:
"This was exactly what we needed and for just the right price. Would recommend this product for anyone looking for something with this size and capability within this price range."
Samsung 30 in. 22.0 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
Shop Samsung 30 in. French Door Refrigerator
Not everyone needs a massive fridge—and if you’ve got a smaller kitchen or household, this Samsung refrigerator could be just right.
It’s a smart, Energy Star-certified option that saves on power without skimping on features. Backed by a 10-year compressor warranty and a five-year labor warranty, Samsung ensures this compact fridge is built to last.
⭐Featured Samsung Refrigerator Review:
"As a gardener who loves veggies, I thought I’d always struggle with not enough room. This Samsung is 22 cubic feet and I’m amazed and how much more room both the fridge and freezer have!"
Repair or Replace? The Final Decision
Choosing between repairing or replacing your refrigerator can feel tricky.
Repairs are usually cheaper upfront, but they might not hold up as long as you’d hope. Replacing a fridge often costs more initially, yet it could save you money over time.
To decide, weigh the problem itself, the repair price tag, and how old your fridge is.
If you land on replacement in the repair-vs.-replace debate, swing by your local Spencers. With multiple showrooms stocked with top brands, we’ve got options to match your budget.
You don’t need to break the bank for a reliable, long-lasting refrigerator—let us help you find the perfect one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most refrigerators are designed to last around a decade. However, some refrigerators will last up to 20 years. You can make your refrigerator last by buying from trusted brands and getting it repaired immediately when something breaks.
The average person spends $650 to repair their refrigerator when it breaks. Some people only spend a few hundred dollars while others spend more than $1,000. Don’t overspend on refrigerator repair when you can simply replace an aging appliance.
This depends on the cost of repairing the refrigerator and its value. If your refrigerator is more than 10 years old, it might be better to replace the appliance. While repairs might be cheaper, there’s no guarantee that an old refrigerator won’t wear out within a few months.
There are a few key times to buy a new refrigerator. Look for end-of-year clearance deals and Black Friday sales. You can also find seasonal sales throughout the year. Knowing when stores want to get rid of inventory can help you save.
There are a few notable warning signs to look for if your compressor is failing. Listen for any strange noises coming from your refrigerator or notice if it’s getting louder. Feel for temperature changes or inconsistencies. If your refrigerator seems like it is struggling to run, the problem is likely the compressor.
Why Trust Spencers TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencers TV & Appliance has grown to 11 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. Our prices consistently beat those of big box stores like Lowe's and Home Depot! Unlike the often overwhelming atmosphere of larger retailers, Spencer’s provides a more intimate and attentive environment, ensuring that customers find exactly what they need at the best possible price.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Quality Refrigerators at Spencers
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop the best appliances for your home. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find the best refrigerator for your kitchen, no matter what! Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!