Every Cost You Need to Know About With Refrigerator Repair
There’s nothing worse than doing a huge grocery shop, stocking up the fridge and then realizing your fridge isn’t really working to its full potential. (Running through my mind: please don’t let the $400 worth of food in my GE refrigerator spoil!)
You can fix some appliance problems on your own, but other refrigerator repairs require a professional. Prepare yourself for the financial damage with this quick guide to refrigerator repair costs:
The average bill
Research shows that refrigerator repair costs generally range from $200 to $400. Of course, the source of the problem and necessary solution will dictate the final bill. For instance, Fixr estimates the following costs for common repairs:
- Replace coils or thermostat: $100 to $200
- Install new evaporator fan motor: $200 to $250
- Change the condenser fan or compressor: $140 to $300
- Repair or replace the ice maker motor: $300 to $330
Keep in mind that appliance repair prices include the necessary parts as well as the labor costs for the project. When replacement parts are available, refrigerator repair can sometimes only require a few hours of professional service.
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The cost variations
Sears Home Services notes that refrigerator repair costs can vary by factors such as appliance make and model, home location, replacement parts required and problem severity. For instance, lesser-known brands, older models with limited replacement parts availability and refrigerators with computerized components typically incur increased repair costs. Of course, service fees and hourly labor charges will also depend on the technician.
The repair or replace conundrum
Before you say yes to a refrigerator repair project, consider if your money would be better spent replacing the appliance with a brand-new fridge. There are a few major indicators that will guide your decision, including:
- Age: SFGate Home Guides suggests repairing refrigerators that are less than eight years old and replacing those that have been around for 15+ years.
- Type: Some refrigerator brands and models call for more difficult repairs and steeper costs, which may lead you to replace before the eight-year mark.
- Energy efficiency: If you don't have an Energy Star-certified refrigerator, you might consider making the upgrade when problems arise. Replacing an old refrigerator with an energy efficient model could save you more than $300 over the next 5 years, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Once your refrigerator is up and running again, try these DIY hacks to improve the efficiency of your appliance. You can also restock the fridge shelves and save some money at these top-rated grocery stores. And, of course, knowing how to maintain all of your kitchen appliances can help to prevent certain future issues.
Being prepared for appliance repairs is always a smart strategy. See how home warranty plans from TotalHome Warranty by HomeServe can help with the costs of covered appliance and home system repairs.
