5 Signs it’s Time for a New Refrigerator
For millions of American homeowners, the refrigerator might be the single most important kitchen appliance they own. When a fridge fails, thinking about repair costs can often lead homeowners to question whether or not it is time to invest in a new unit. Read on for the top signs it is time for a new refrigerator.
At Diamond Factory Appliance, we help homeowners across the greater St. Louis and Kansas City region with expert refrigerator repair. While your fridge might be on its last legs, we’d be happy to take a look to see if it can be saved. Contact us today.
Excessive Heat from the Rear of the Fridge
It is common for homeowners to detect a certain amount of heat coming from the back of their refrigerator. This is because a motor called a compressor is situated at the back of almost all types of refrigerators, and its job is to compress and heat refrigerant gas before passing it through a series of condenser coils located on the back of the appliance. This critical function generates heat from both the compressor itself and the compressed refrigerant gas it creates.
If a fridge seems to be producing excessive heat, it may indicate a malfunctioning compressor that is working harder than necessary and therefore generating excess heat. For newer fridges, it may be best to contact a refrigerator repair specialist since the necessary replacement parts are likely still under warranty. However, for older models not under warranty, a malfunctioning compressor may signal the need to purchase a new fridge since these components can often cost hundreds of dollars to replace.
Contents are Spoiling Quickly
Guidance from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) states that in general, food inside a fridge should be kept at a minimum temperature of 40 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure safe consumption. Food that is allowed to get warmer than this temperature risks spoiling prematurely and potentially causing harm to anyone who eats it.
If food is spoiling quicker than the expiration date on a regular basis, it could be a sign that your fridge is not working properly. First, check the temperature control knob to ensure it is set correctly. If issues persist, it may be a signal that it is time to shop for a new appliance. Consultation with an experienced local appliance repair specialist can help you determine if the cost to repair your current fridge is worth it compared to buying a new model.
The Fridge Keeps “Sweating”
When you take a can of soda out of a cooler on a hot day, the “sweating” that occurs is due to condensation; the hot humid air is coming into contact with the cold can and condensing into liquid water. If this same phenomenon is happening inside the actual refrigerator, it can mean that the appliance is not working properly.
Condensation inside a fridge means that the appliance is not producing a consistent level of dry cold air inside. This can mean an interior storage compartment that is too warm and humid, leading to spoiled food. If a technician cannot address the problem at a reasonable price, it is likely in your best interest to look into purchasing a new unit.
Significant Frost Accumulation
As liquid refrigerant passes through the evaporator coils inside the refrigerator, it is normal for some ice to accumulate on the coils. This happens because of the temperature and moisture difference between the coils and the surrounding air inside the appliance.
However, if you are noticing significant frost buildup on a routine basis, it could be a sign that something is wrong with the evaporator coils or another critical component. Modern fridges are often equipped with a heating coil that works to intermittently melt this frost into a condensate pan below the appliance. If your model is out of date or these components are not working, it may be cheaper to replace the entire unit.
Your Energy Bill is Increasing
Outdated fridges use more electricity compared to newer, more energy-efficient models. In addition, compressors and other components that are starting to fail will often require more energy to maintain a comparable level of performance. If your energy bill is rising alongside declining performance from your fridge, it is likely time to shop around for a replacement.
Whether you’re looking for advice on shopping for a new refrigerator or expert refrigerator repair, Diamond Appliance of St. Louis and Kansas City is here to help. Contact us today to learn more.
