How to Know If Your Refrigerator Is About to Die
October 20, 2023
source: GERENME / GETTY IMAGES
You’ve had your refrigerator for quite some time, and now you’re wondering when it’s time for a replacement. After all, refrigerators can be a significant expense. Do you know that there might be subtle hints that your refrigerator might be reaching the end of its useful life? Refrigerators don’t have an expiration date stamped on them, and they won’t sound an alarm when they’re ready to retire. So, let’s look at some signs that can help you assess the health of your fridge:
1. Your Freezer is Arctic-Like
If your ice cream is harder than a rock, and your frozen peas could double as hockey pucks, it might be a sign that your freezer is working too hard. This could mean that your fridge’s thermostat is acting up, suggesting it might be time to consider a new one.
2. Food Spoils Prematurely
One of the clearest indicators that your refrigerator is on the decline is when your groceries start going bad before their expiry dates. If things in your fridge are spoiling too soon, it’s a sign that your appliance is struggling to maintain a consistent temperature.
3. The Motor Keeps Humming
Your refrigerator has a motor that runs to keep things cool. It’s normal to hear it start up occasionally, but if it’s running constantly, it could be a problem. This might be a sign that your fridge is working harder than it should, which can lead to higher energy bills.
4. The Back of the Fridge Feels Warm
Your fridge should be cool inside, not warm on the outside. If the back of your fridge feels unusually hot, it might be due to a malfunctioning compressor, a crucial component for maintaining the right temperature.
5. Spying Condensation or Frost
If you notice condensation or frost inside your fridge, it suggests that the temperature and humidity levels are out of balance. This can lead to your food losing its freshness and add strain on the compressor, resulting in increased energy consumption.
6. Surging Energy Bills
Has your electric bill suddenly shot up? If you can’t pinpoint another reason, your aging refrigerator could be to blame. Inefficient or malfunctioning fridges tend to consume more electricity, which can hit your wallet hard.
7. Fridge’s Decade Mark
Age plays a significant role in assessing your refrigerator’s health. Most fridges have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. If yours has surpassed a decade of service and is showing other signs of trouble, it’s probably time to think about a new one.
8. Frequent Calls to the Repair Shop
Are you on a first-name basis with your local appliance repair person? If your fridge keeps acting up and needs constant repairs, it might be more cost-effective to invest in a new one in the long run.
While your fridge won’t have a “best before” date, it does provide subtle hints when it’s approaching the end of its journey. Paying attention to these signs can save you from sudden food spoilage and high utility bills. Remember, replacing your fridge might seem like a significant expense, but in the long term, it’s an investment that can save you money and keep your groceries fresh.