How long does a fridge last?

Your fridge plays an important role in your daily life. Whether you are storing food or clearing your groceries, your fridge is always in use. But how long does a fridge actually last? When is it time to buy a new one, or can you carry on with your current fridge for a while longer? We answer this question, and teach you what affects the lifespan of your fridge. We also give you tips on how to extend its lifespan.

Average lifespan of a fridge

Most refrigerators last between 10 and 15 years. This is the average lifespan of a well-maintained appliance. Of course, this can vary depending on the brand, use and maintenance. With heavy use or poor maintenance, the lifespan may be shorter. But with proper care, you can extend the life of your fridge quite a bit.

More durable brands like Liebherr, Bosch and Miele are known for their long lifespans, while cheaper models tend to have shorter ones. More expensive refrigerators are usually of better quality, but that doesn’t mean they are always better. Price, however, can be an indication of the durability of your fridge.

What affects the lifespan of your fridge?

There are several factors that determine how long your fridge will last:

1. Use: The more often you open the fridge, the more the motor has to work. This can shorten its lifespan. A fridge that is used intensively consumes more energy and wears out faster.
2. Placement: Make sure your fridge is not in direct sunlight or next to a heater. Too warm an environment will make your fridge have to work harder to stay cool, which can shorten its lifespan.
3. Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your fridge in top condition. This includes cleaning the condenser and checking the door seals. Proper maintenance will keep the fridge working efficiently and prevent the motor from overloading.
4. Temperature setting: The ideal temperature for your fridge is between 3°C and 5°C. Setting the temperature too low or too high can affect performance and lead to faster wear and tear.

What happens as your fridge ages?

Over time, several problems can occur. The motor may work less efficiently, the temperature may no longer be regulated properly, or your fridge may make more noise. If your fridge is exhibiting increasingly frequent faults, such as unreliable temperature control, it is time to consider whether it is better to replace it rather than repair it.

Tips to extend the life of your fridge

There are a number of things you can do yourself to extend the life of your fridge:

• Clean regularly: Clean your fridge, both inside and out. Pay particular attention to the condenser, as dust often accumulates there. This can reduce efficiency.
• Check the door seals: Check that the door seals close properly and are clean. A poorly closing door causes the fridge to have to work harder.
• Place the fridge in the right place: Do not place your fridge near heat sources or in direct sunlight. A cool, well-ventilated room is best.
• Don’t overfill: Make sure you have enough space in your fridge. If your fridge is too full, air can’t circulate properly, affecting temperature and efficiency.

When is it time to buy a new fridge?

If your fridge is over 10 years old and you notice that its performance is deteriorating, it may be time to think about replacing it. Especially if your fridge is regularly exhibiting faults or if repairs are becoming more expensive than buying a new appliance. A new model can also save money in the long run through lower energy costs and better performance.

Fridge rental as an alternative

Don’t want to buy a new fridge right away or do you need extra cooling space temporarily? Then renting a fridge is a good solution. At Homie, you can easily rent a fridge from €9.99 per month. Maintenance is included, so you don’t have to worry about repairs or temperature settings.

Renting a fridge is ideal if you don’t want to make a long-term commitment. This can come in handy if you live in a student dorm temporarily or move around a lot, for example. You only pay for use and always have access to a well-functioning appliance, without having to worry about maintenance.