Refrigerators are important kitchen appliances. They are used to keep food cold for days, weeks, or even months. While it is not difficult to replace a broken refrigerator, it can be a costly exercise. Replacing a new one can cost thousands of dollars. If you’re on a tight budget, or you just want to make your current appliance last longer, you may wish to consider repairing it instead of buying a new one.
When Not to Repair a Refrigerator
The good news is that most high-end refrigerators are designed to be replaced. Most models come with a warranty that runs for up to 10 years. This allows you to buy a new model for a fraction of the price. But if you have a more modest budget, you’ll be happy to know that repairing a refrigerator is often a simple affair.
The most basic component of any refrigerator is the door seal. A faulty door seal can cause your unit to run less efficiently and lead to food spoilage and mold growth same day appliance repair. To test whether or not your door seal is in need of replacement, place a dollar bill in the gap between the door and the fridge’s divider panel. When the bill is stuck out of the door, it’s time for a change.
Other components to look out for are the motor, evaporator coils, condenser coil, and fans. Some of these are easy to change while others are better left to professionals. It is also possible to find a “fit-all” gasket that will fit your unit after a bit of finagling.
Although there is no guarantee your fridge will last as long as your home, you can minimize the odds of its failure by following the manufacturer’s guidelines to the letter. For instance, make sure to clean the coils of pet hair and dust regularly. Also, make sure to clear the ice compartment at least once a month.
Some of the best refrigerators, including the SubZero brand, come with smart technology that allows you to remotely monitor the performance of your appliances. You can also use home WiFi to transmit diagnostic codes to the manufacturer’s customer service center. These are features that are usually only available on higher-end units.
Even with these advances, a repair is sometimes your only option. If you don’t have the time, money, or inclination to take on the project yourself, you can call a professional and get it done for a fraction of the cost of a new model.
One of the best ways to ensure your appliance will perform as it should is to check its warranty. Fortunately, most manufacturers offer warranties that cover the basics like cooling and heating. Using a warranty is a good way to ensure that your fridge remains reliable for many years to come.
Another thing to check is the water filter. Changing the filter every 6 months can help improve the life of your unit.
However, if you have a faulty motor, it might be time to consider a more permanent fix. In the event of a motor replacement, you can save money and avoid the inconvenience of a noisy and inefficient refrigerator.