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8 Signs That Your Refrigerator Needs to be Replaced

Writer: Andry BichkovAndry Bichkov



1. Excess Condensation

Excessive condensation shows that your refrigerator's cooling capacity is insufficient. Check the door seal if the wetness is only on the outside; you can simply repair a defective seal on your own. If the seal seems to be in good condition, or if condensation occurs on the interior of the fridge, the internal temperature of the appliance isn't low enough to protect food from rotting, and it's time to replace it.


2. The Back Panel of Refrigerator is Hot

The rear of a refrigerator is usually warmer than the sides or the front due to the position of the engine. The motor, on the other hand, may be operating too hot if the rear outside surface generates a lot of heat. Any refrigerator that is less than six or eight years old should be repaired by a professional (particularly if it is still under warranty).

However, if the appliance is more than ten years old, it's usually advisable to replace it. After all, replacing a broken motor may cost hundreds of dollars, and you're probably going to need a new fridge anyhow.


3. Food Spoilage Before Expiration Date

At lunch, no one likes to deal with sour milk and stale cheese. Food can spoil before its expiry date if it is kept in an old refrigerator with insufficient power. Perishable foods should be maintained at a temperature of 40 degrees or below according to food safety guidelines, so check the temperature adjustment knob to make sure it's set appropriately.

If the knob looks to be in good working order, your refrigerator is definitely on its final legs, and you should replace it with a newer one.


4. Extremely Loud Sound

Most refrigerators have a moderate hum, but if yours has recently begun to buzz loudly, the motor may be failing to function correctly. Try disconnecting the refrigerator and then plugging it back in. If the buzzing continues, your refrigerator is likely to die.


5.  A Bit Too Quiet

A malfunctioning compressor is indicated by a perfectly quiet fridge and food that doesn’t chill. Unplug the refrigerator and re-plug it, then check your home's electrical panel to see whether a breaker has tripped. If the problem persists, begin shopping for a replacement model.

6. Noticeable Frost Inside

Freezers frequently accumulate frost, which may be removed by turning the freezer off and letting the ice melt. On the other hand, if you have to chisel through heaps of frost every time you reach for a frozen meal, your appliance is undoubtedly old and inefficient. Upgrade to a frost-free model if you don't already have one. It will save you money on electricity and eliminate the need for manual defrosting.


7. High Utility Bills

If you start to notice your utility bills are climbing month after month, the cause could be your fridge. Refrigerators are one of the most energy-sucking appliances in the kitchen, but when a fridge reaches the end of it’s life, you’ll start paying double.

Homeowners can use an energy usage monitor to detect how much watts the fridge is consuming and estimate monthly utility expenses. This will give you an idea whether your fridge needs to be scrapped.


8. 10 Years or Older

While some refrigerators can last for more than a decade, older models tend to use a lot of energy, resulting in a higher electric bill. When searching for a new refrigerator, look for the models made in the USA or Canada. Appliances made in the USA or Canada have more reliable electric systems than foreign brands.

 
 
 

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