7 Signs Your Fridge is Dying

There are many signs that indicate your fridge is dying. As we know all too well, though, fridges are one of those essential kitchen appliances that you can’t go long without.

Sure, you can fill up a few eskies with ice and store your food in there for a short while, but that won’t get you by in the long run.

Knowing what to look out for will go a long way towards helping you prepare to replace your outgoing fridge/freezer unit. From excess condensation on the interior or exterior walls to problems with the refrigerator compressor and everything in between, here are seven common signs of a deteriorating refrigerator.

1. The Motor Runs Hot on Your Dying Fridge

When it comes to fridge temperature, it is not unusual for the back of your fridge to feel warm. Fridges work by pumping out warm air so the inside remains cool. The mechanisms that do this are fixed to the back of your fridge, hence you will often find the back of your fridge quite warm.

Excessive heat, however, is not normal and may point to impending refrigerator failure. In many cases, it may just be dirty condenser coils that need a clean. A problem that is relatively simple to solve.

However, it could be another issue, like a failure of the refrigerator compressor or condenser fan. While you could call an appliance technician out to repair or replace faulty components, weighing up the repair costs against a replacement may be the better option.

2. There is Excess Condensation

Has your fridge ever looked like it’s just run a marathon and is sweating more than just a little condensation? Improper cooling is most often the cause. If this is the case, you’ll want to check the door seal around the fridge door.

You’ll need to replace your refrigerator if you discover:

• Excessive moisture
• Water droplets
• Mould or mildew

Excessive condensation inside the fridge compartment could mean one of many likely problems. First and foremost, it’s worth checking the door seal, air vents and temperature settings.

If each of these appears okay, you may have a faulty setting on your temperature control board. You must address this quickly to avoid the risk of premature food spoilage.

3. Excess Frost Clogging Up the Freezer

Most homes these days rely on a fridge-freezer combo. When the freezer resembles an icy wonderland and you’re forever chipping away at frost just to reach that packet of peas, it’s time for a full defrost.

Should the ice return not long after, that persistent build-up is a clear sign your refrigerator is dying.

Thankfully, newer freezers have an automatic defrosting system that addresses this problem. Regardless of the age of your fridge/freezer, it’s a problem you need to take care of immediately.

4. Your Fridge is More than 10 Years Old

You can expect your fridge to last a good 10-15 years. If yours is more than 10 years old and constantly needs repairs or replacements, that fridge is dying. It’s time to start looking for a new model.

Initially, you might be inclined to repair your fridge rather than replace it. Before you commit one way or another, though, it’s worth following the 50% rule.

That rule is if a repair costs more than half the price of a similar new model, just bite the bullet and replace the fridge. All your food and your wallet will thank you for it.

These days, most refrigerators (especially newer fridges) also come with modern benefits such as energy efficiency and features like water and ice dispensers.

5. It is Not Energy Efficient

Speaking of your wallet, have your energy bills jumped up for no apparent reason? Outdated and inefficient appliances, like an old fridge, may be the reason.

More energy-efficient fridges will not only be better for your wallet, but they will also be more environmentally friendly.

That’s as good a reason as any to replace your old refrigerator and upgrade to something new. One that will potentially lower your electric bills.

6. Food Spoilage Happening Quickly

Have you found that your food spoils quicker, often well before its expiration date? Or maybe it’s taking longer for something to chill than it used to? Spoiled food is a clear sign that your fridge isn’t cooling correctly, and possibly that your fridge is dying.

This means your fridge is wasting energy (and money!). On top of that, you’re not storing food at a safe temperature, so it simply goes bad quicker. When this starts to occur, it’s time to look for a new fridge.

7. Your Fridge is Noisy

Refrigerators tend to make a little bit of noise, but it certainly shouldn’t be loud if it’s working and cooling properly. A slight buzz is normal, but you shouldn’t hear the noise from your fridge across your kitchen and into the next room.

Unplug your fridge, and if loud or strange noises continue, it’s time to start looking for a new one.

BONUS: The Fridge Door Seal Has Worn Out

A compromised fridge door seal is a tell-tale sign that your fridge might be on its last legs and nearing the end of its life.

This crucial component ensures your refrigerator door closes tightly and secures the internal temperature. When the door seal wears out, cold air escapes, forcing your fridge to work harder to maintain the right environment for your food.

A failing door seal not only leads to energy waste but can also strain your fridge’s compressor, leading to potential breakdowns.

Whether you have a French door refrigerator that opens from the middle or a single door model that swings open to the side, regular checks of your door seal can save on energy bills and extend the life of your appliance.

Keep an eye out for signs of wear to ensure your fridge stays efficient and effective.

Time for a New Fridge?

When your fridge is dying or has already died, you might be tempted to consider a refrigerator repair. However, that can often cost just as much, if not more, than doing a straight replacement. Luckily, you don’t have time to waste figuring out how to install a new one.

That’s not to mention that you run the risk of voiding your fridge’s warranty if you install it yourself.

When it comes to fridge plumbing, Metropolitan Plumbing is your local expert. When you begin to see signs that your refrigerator is dying, contact us to install a new one for you.

Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “7 Signs Your Fridge is Dying”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See our Terms & Conditions here.