Why refrigerators dont last

A refrigerator is a system of approximately five different components, all working together to maintain the temperature you want in the cooling compartments. When one or more of them stops working, it can lead to condensation forming on the outside of the refrigerator. Even if you make use of home warranty plans , regular repairs can still be a hassle and time-consuming. At a certain point, it may be wise to invest in a new unit.

Aside from the warning signs detailed above, you may want to keep in mind that how long your fridge lasts is an issue that moves beyond how well it keeps your food. In recent years, many advancements have been made with energy-efficient refrigerators and other appliances. According to a study done by researchers at Cornell University, these new units require less energy on average than older models, which means that your investment in a new refrigerator could be offset every month by lower utility bills and the ability to keep your food longer than before.

Take everything into consideration when thinking about how long your fridge lasts, including the economic aspect. You can either call us at or contact us online at any time. We look forward to working with you! A home warranty from HWA protects your budget and your peace of mind against the unexpected expenses of inevitable home repairs.

Whether you're buying, selling, or already in your home, we have a plan to fit your needs! Email Address. Coverage Limits. Not Covered. Legal information generic for every listing to cover what we will handle. Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Aliquam at porttitor sem. Aliquam erat volutpat. Donec placerat nisl magna, et faucibus arcu condimentum sed. Cleaning the coils once or twice a year can make refrigerators last longer.

First, unplug the fridge, and then access the condenser coils behind the snap-on toe kick plate at the base—or pull the unit away from the wall if the coils are behind it. Vacuum dust on the coils with a dust brush attachment, then work a condenser coil brush e. The rubber insulation around the edges of the refrigerator door interiors seals in cold air and shuts out hot air. Over time, these gaskets can become misshapen, form cracks, tear, or loosen from the door. If this happens, cold air can leak out of the fridge and hot air can enter, increasing interior moisture.

This can also cause ice dams to form in the fridge and freezer. These obstructions reduce storage space and hinder heat exchange between the unit and surrounding air, making it less efficient. Lubricating the door gaskets by applying a thin film of petroleum jelly to the outer edges will maintain their elasticity and protect the integrity of the seal.

The vents located on the sidewalls of your fridge and on the roof of your freezer aid in air circulation in the unit. When obstructed by food, vents work inefficiently, causing moisture or frost build-up and uneven cooling. For one, this ensures your drinking water and the ice it's used to produce are clean and clear of bacteria. It also prevents buildup that could damage your water dispenser and ice maker permanently.

If you can tip the fridge downward on any corner, even just slightly, then it's not on level flooring. This can strain the motor and shorten its lifespan. To give your unit the best shot at a long and full life, adjust the feet until it sits completely level.

You may need to stick a leveler on top while you do this just to be sure. If at all possible, give your fridge plenty of real estate. Leave at least a few inches on each side of it, and avoid piling items on top of the unit -- especially heavy ones. For optimal efficiency, refrigerators need plenty of airflow, and closing yours in tightly with cabinets and other items can hinder that flow and reduce its operating capacity significantly.

If you suspect anything might be wrong with your fridge, you'll want to address it quickly. Weird noises, reduced cooling abilities, or problems with the ice maker or water filter should all be evaluated by a professional as soon as you spot them.

Puddles in or around the fridge are also indicative of an issue possibly one with the supply line and should be assessed as well. A quick note here: Avoid trying to fix fridge-related issues on your own.

Even if you're the handy type, attempting to DIY your repairs could do serious or even irreparable damage to the unit. Always call in an appliance repair pro if you suspect something is wrong with your refrigerator. Even with the most detailed and thorough maintenance, there will come a day when your fridge needs replacing.

While you should still call in a professional for evaluation, the following signs generally mean your fridge is in its last phase of life:. If your fridge is on the older side think 10 years or more , you should be especially wary should any of these indicators crop up.

Your fridge may outlast some of the other appliances in your home, but you can be sure it will bite the dust someday. Until that day comes, focus on maintaining your unit, and keep a watchful eye on its condition. Addressing issues early could help extend your fridge's lifespan considerably, so call in a pro the second something goes awry. Our team of analysts agrees. These 10 real estate plays are the best ways to invest in real estate right now.

Find out how you can get started with Real Estate Winners by clicking here. Aly J. Yale is a freelance writer and journalist from Houston. She currently covers real estate, mortgage, and finance topics … Learn More. Advertiser Disclosure We do receive compensation from some affiliate partners whose offers appear here.

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