How Much Does Refrigerator Repair Cost?
The average refrigerator lasts between 10 and 15 years. There are some refrigerators that can last for over 20 years. However, your refrigerator will need to be repaired at some point. Refrigerator repair usually costs $200 to $300, but there are several factors that determine how much you have to pay.
What Factors Impact Refrigerator Repair Cost?
The Age of Your Refrigerator
If you have an older refrigerator, then you can expect to pay more to have the refrigerator repaired. Your refrigerator may have a part that needs to be replaced. It is much harder to find older parts, which is why you will have to pay more.
The Extent of the Damage
Minor problems are easier to repair. In fact, a technician may be able to repair a minor problem in less than an hour. However, it can take several hours to repair a major problem. Because there is more labor involved, you will have to pay more for a major repair.
The Refrigerator Brand
The type of refrigerator that you have will affect how much you have to spend on repairs. If you have a high-end brand, then your repair will likely cost more. High-end brands are more expensive, so the cost of replacing a damaged part will cost more.
How Much You Can Expect to Pay for Specific Types of Repairs
Gasket
If your refrigerator is not getting as cold as you would like it to be, then the problem may be caused by the gasket. The gasket may be letting the cold air go out of your refrigerator. It can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 to replace a gasket.
Thermostat
The thermostat is what controls how cold the refrigerator will get. If the thermostat is not working the way that it should, then the temperature of the refrigerator will fluctuate. Your food will end up spoiling. The cost of replacing a thermostat ranges from $200 to $400.
Compressor
The compressor is what helps regulate the flow of refrigerant. Your refrigerator cannot stay cool without the refrigerant. Unfortunately, if there is something wrong with your compressor, then you can expect to pay a lot of money to replace it. The cost ranges from $200 to $400.
Fan Motor
There are two fan motors in your refrigerator. One is located in the condenser, and the other is located in the freezer. Your refrigerator may get warm if the fan motors are not working the way that they should. Replacing a fan motor can cost anywhere from $200 to $250.
Defrost Heater
The defrost heater melts the ice off of the evaporator coils. It costs $100 to $200 to replace a defrost heater.
Is Repair or Replacement the Better Option?
In many cases, repair is the most cost-effective option. However, you may want to replace your refrigerator if it is old. You may also want to replace your refrigerator if the repair costs are more than half of what a new refrigerator will cost. Keep in mind that a new refrigerator costs between $1,000 and $3,000.
