How Long Does a Refrigerator Last?

Short answerA standard refrigerator lasts about 13 to 14 years on average. The Department of Energy estimates 14.3 years for standard-size models, and NAHB's 2007 study lists 13 years. Compact refrigerators are shorter, at about 9 years. Some last longer, but older models can use far more energy than a new one.

What this costs

Our national estimates, not quotes.
Option	Job	Low	High
Repair	Appliance Repair	$90	$460

Why two different numbers

The U.S. Department of Energy, in its appliance efficiency rulemaking, estimates an average refrigerator lifetime of 14.3 years. NAHB's 2007 study lists 13 years, and says its appliance figures are based on first-owner use. People often replace appliances before they wear out, because styles and features change, so a shorter number doesn't mean the machine had failed.

Standard vs. compact

The Department of Energy's figure for compact refrigerators is 8.8 years, and NAHB's is 9. Its figure for standard-size freezers is higher, at 18.4 years.

Older fridges cost more to run

ENERGY STAR says an old refrigerator uses about twice as much energy as a new ENERGY STAR model, and the Department of Energy's Energy Saver Guide says replacing a refrigerator more than 10 years old could save money each year. ENERGY STAR has a calculator for your model at energystar.gov/refrigerator/calculator.

Refrigerator Not Cooling? What to Check First

Common questions

Is a 20-year-old refrigerator worth keeping?

It has outlived both averages. If it still cools, it may run, but ENERGY STAR's comparison suggests it could be using much more energy than a new model. Its calculator can estimate the difference.

Does a second fridge in the garage cost much?

ENERGY STAR's 2019 fact sheet says keeping a second refrigerator in a basement or garage could waste about $125 per year.