When should you upgrade your fridge?

Fridges are a hero of home appliances, keeping your food fresh, drinks cold, and leftovers safe for tomorrow's lunch. But how do you know when it's the right time to consider an upgrade?

Signs you need to upgrade your refrigerator

While a well-maintained refrigerator can serve you well for many years, there are several indicators that it might be time to consider an upgrade:

  • High energy bills: If you've noticed a steady increase in your energy bills, it might be due to your refrigerator becoming less energy-efficient over time. Newer models are often designed with better energy efficiency in mind.
  • Frequent repairs: If your fridge requires frequent repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace it with a new model. Replacement parts and labor costs can add up quickly, making repeated repairs less economical than investing in a new refrigerator.
  • Inadequate cooling: If your refrigerator isn't cooling as effectively as it used to, or if you notice significant temperature fluctuations, it could be a sign that you need an upgrade. While dirty condenser coils might cause temperature fluctuations, if cleaning the coils doesn't resolve the issue, the problem might lie with a faulty fan motor or thermostat, which would need replacing.
  • Excessive noise: A noisy refrigerator can be a sign of a failing compressor or fan motor, indicating that it's time to consider repair or replacement.
  • Visible wear and tear: Physical signs of wear and tear, such as rust, cracks, or a deteriorating seal on the door, can indicate that your fridge is nearing the end of its lifespan.
Repair or replace?

When deciding whether to repair or replace your malfunctioning fridge, consider factors such as its age, warranty status, and the cost of repairs relative to the price of a new model. If your refrigerator is relatively new and under warranty, contact the retailer regarding repair or replacement. For older models or those with expensive repair needs, upgrading to a new refrigerator might be the more economical choice in the long run, as it can provide better cooling performance and energy efficiency.

Choosing the right refrigerator at Appliances Online

At Appliances Online, we offer a wide range of refrigerators from leading brands. Whether you're looking for a compact model for a small kitchen or a large, French door refrigerator for a big family, we have options to suit every need and budget.

We deliver fridges to 95% of Australia's population with Appliances Online's legendary FREE delivery - and we can usually get it to you by the next day (Mon-Fri) if it's in stock. Plus, we now offer paid Same Day Delivery for in-stock appliances in NSW, QLD, and VIC metro areas if you order before 12pm Mon-Fri. We'll also take your old fridge away for recycling, for free. If you have any questions, call our friendly team 24/7 on 1300 000 500, or message us via the chat icon at the bottom right of your screen.