Is it Worth Repairing a 6 Year Old Fridge Freezer?

As an expert in the field of refrigerators, I am often asked whether it is worth repairing an older fridge freezer or if it is better to just replace it. The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. It ultimately depends on the type of refrigerator, its age, and the cost of the repair. According to Consumer Reports, bottom freezer refrigerators should be serviced within seven years and considered for replacement after that. Top-freezer refrigerators, on the other hand, should be serviced within three years, considered for repair within three to six years, and replaced if they are more than seven years old.

In fact, a survey conducted by Consumer Reports found that 27 percent of their members who discarded their refrigerator instead of repairing it cited high repair costs as the reason for doing so. But before you make a decision based solely on cost, there are a few other factors to consider. Not only can repairing your refrigerator be less expensive for you, but it can also be better for the environment. Refrigerators are responsible for the majority of appliance repair orders, and they are prone to a variety of problems. However, earlier surveys have shown that they are also fairly easy to repair. In fact, 62 percent of repairs are successful on the first attempt and an additional 25 percent are successful after two or more attempts. If you are considering repairing your refrigerator, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

First, use a tool like Consumer Reports' refrigerator repair cost estimator to get an idea of how much the repair may cost. Simply enter the age of your refrigerator, its original cost, and any estimate you have for the repair. But cost is not the only consideration. You should also think about the efficiency of your refrigerator. Older models are much less efficient than newer ones, which means they use more energy and can result in higher utility bills.

Additionally, the potential repair costs for older models are often much higher. Now, if you have decided to go ahead with the repair, you will need to decide whether to attempt it on your own or hire a professional. While DIY repairs may save you money, they can also be risky and may end up costing you more in the long run if not done correctly. On the other hand, hiring a professional may come with an initial fee for diagnosing the problem and providing a quote for the repair. Once you have made a decision, here are some tips to help you with your refrigerator repair or choosing a new one:

• Check the warranty: If your refrigerator is still under warranty, it may be best to have it repaired by the manufacturer or an authorized repair service to avoid voiding the warranty.
• Research the problem: Before attempting any repairs, do some research on the specific issue your refrigerator is experiencing. This can help you determine if it is something you can fix on your own or if you need professional help.
• Consider energy efficiency: If you do decide to replace your refrigerator, look for models that are Energy Star certified.

  These models are more energy-efficient and can save you money on your utility bills in the long run.

• Proper maintenance: To prolong the life of your refrigerator, make sure to perform regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning the coils and replacing water filters.