Does your refrigerator sound like its moaning and groaning from aches and pains? Does it have the sweats, then freezes itself over? It could very well be on its last legs.
While your fridge may have been a hefty investment 10 years ago, even long-term investments must come to an end at some point.
Here are 5 tell-tale signs it could be time to move on and replace your old refrigerator…
When to Bid Farewell to an Old Refrigerator
The symptoms of a fridge that requires a little TLC and one that needs to be replaced can be similar at times. That’s why it’s hard to tell whether your old fridge needs to go, or merely tweaked a little.
Forking out for a high-quality model refrigerator gives you a 10-15 year lifespan. So if your trusty fridge is older than this, it’s definitely time for a replacement!
Otherwise, here are 5 obvious signs it’s time for a new model:
1. Your Fridge is Overheating
Generally, the back of your fridge will feel warmer because that’s where the motor is. It’s normal for the rear of your fridge to generate some heat, but if this area is excessively warm, your motor could be burning out.
If your fridge is still under warranty, call in a fridge and freezer repairs service to take a look at it. But if you find that overheating is a persistent issue, it’s not worth the service cost and may be time to replace it!
2. Food Spoilage
There’s no use crying over spilled milk, right? But what about spoiled milk that should be kept cold in a perfectly good refrigerator?
The truth is that an old fridge with a sub-par power range can cause your food to spoil before you get round to eating it. According to food safety standards, your food should be stored at a temperature of 40 degrees or less.
Check the temperature gauge is set correctly. If so, and your food continues to spoil, your fridge is on its way out and should be replaced.
3. Your Fridge Has the Sweats
When we refer to ”sweats” we mean condensation build up. Excess condensation on the exterior of your fridge is an indication that its cooling capabilities are failing.
Take a look at the seal on your fridge door first. If the seal is broken or ruptured in some way, this can lead to excess condensation and is easy to replace. If not, this means the internal temperature regulation is out-of-whack and your fridge will need to be replaced.
4. It’s Making a Little Too Much Noise
As a standard most refrigerators will let off a low hum throughout the day, sometimes switching off completely at random intervals. It is an electric appliance, after all.
But if your fridge is making strange, high-pitched squeaking noises, this is a sign the motor is failing. Sometimes, unplugging your fridge can help reboot it and quite the noise. But if this doesn’t work, it’s got to go!
5. The Freezer is in Overdrive
Your freezer is meant to develop some form of frost, a thin layer is generally the norm. But if it’s straight-up arctic in there and you have to chisel your frozen goods apart, something is wrong.
This generally means the temperature gauge is outdated and non-functional, meaning it’s time for a frost-free, energy-saving model.
Home Hacks at Your Fingertips
Now that you’ve decided to replace your old refrigerator, you might want to check out this blog on new smart technology for your home!
For more home improvement hacks, DIY tips, or articles on travel, sports, and local news, View from a Blue Moon offers it all…
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