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how much does it cost to repair a fridge freezer

by Prof. Daija Carter DVM Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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What Are Common Freezer Repair Costs?

  • Compressor: $200 to $400 to repair a fuel leak or replace the compressor
  • Control board: $80 to $800 with the wide price range depending on the specific issue and the complexity of the control board
  • Thermostat: $100 to $440
  • Defrost motor: $100 to $440
  • Coils: $100 to $440
  • Door seal: $50 to $440

More items...

Full Answer

How much does it cost to fix a freezer?

How Much Does Freezer Repair Cost? Fixing a freezer is generally more expensive than fixing a fridge because it’s an appliance that’s more technologically complex. Expect to pay between $90 and $650 for most freezer repairs.

How much does replacing a freezer seal cost?

Freezer seal replacements range from $150 to $500, depending on the freezer size and seal type needed. If a freezer does not stay cool or you can feel cold air passing through gaps in the door when closed, it is likely that the seal is damaged and needs to be removed.. Discover Answers for +21 related questions.

What is the average cost to repair a refrigerator?

The cost of refrigerator repair depends more on the problem than the size or style of your fridge. In general, the national average is between $200 to $300, but you can expect to pay up to $1,000 or as little as $40, depending on what’s wrong. How Much Does a Mini Fridge Repair Cost? Even having a mini fridge fixed will cost about the same.

How much does it cost to repair a refrigeration system?

Refrigerator Sealed System Repair Cost. The average price to fix the entire system is $800 to $1,200. Your refrigerator’s sealed system is the entire cooling operation. This includes the coils, evaporator, and compressor. Sometimes if the sealed system fails, it is because of one piece like the evaporator or compressor.

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Is it worth repairing a fridge freezer?

Any fridge freezer that is over ten years old is unlikely to be worth repairing. A new one will be more energy efficient and cost much less to run. The high cost of replacing a side by side expensive large fridge freezer may make repairs cost effective especially if the machine is not too old.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a refrigerator?

Typically, most refrigerator repairs will cost less than buying a new one. The rule of thumb is that if the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of purchasing a new refrigerator, you may be better off replacing it.

How much does it cost to fix a refrigerator that is not cooling?

This is not always the case but it also is not that uncommon. If and when a fridge compressor fails the pricing can be between $500 to even $1000 to fix, the same goes for if the refrigerator's seal system fails (the coolant circulation).

How much does it cost to repair a freezer?

Nationally, it costs an average of $350 to repair a broken freezer....Freezer Repair Cost.Type of CostAmountAverage Cost$350Highest Cost$650Lowest Cost$60 (ice-maker repair)Apr 27, 2022

How long should a fridge freezer last?

The typical life expectancy of a refrigerator is 10 to 15 years, and the average fridge with a freezer on the bottom or top can reliably run for about 13 years. However, the refrigerator's lifespan varies by the model, so don't rely on its age alone to determine if you're ready for a new one.

Why is my refrigerator running but not cooling?

If you can hear the compressor running but the fridge isn't cooling, the problem is most likely either frost-clogged evaporator coils or a stuck or broken evaporator fan. Evaporator fans often squeal or chirp when they start to go bad.

What causes a freezer to stop freezing?

A freezer may not be cold enough due to user error, such as packing in too much food or not properly closing the door. However, parts to your freezer wear out over time and may be affecting your appliance's freezing capabilities. Many parts are simple to install as DIY fixes, but others can't be resolved on your own.

What to do if freezer is not freezing?

Freezer Air is Escaping. If you find your freezer cold but not freezing, the first thing you should do is test your freezer door. You may have failed to notice that an item is sticking out enough to keep the door ajar, meaning that precious cold air is escaping your freezer.

How do you know if your fridge compressor is broken?

Your refrigerator compressor is responsible for that humming sound. So, if the sound stops for good, or if the sound goes from faint to a constant or very loud humming noise that does not shut off, it may be a sign the compressor is broken or malfunctioning.

Is it worth fixing a freezer compressor?

As a rule of thumb, if replacing the compressor will cost you about half the price of the refrigerator you have, then it will be much wiser to replace the entire fridge itself than having it repaired.

How do I fix my refrigerator that is not cooling?

Pull the unit away from the wall and unplug it. Check the owner's manual for any “off” or “zero” settings in your fridge and freezer and set them to off or zero. Plug the unit back in and adjust the temperature controls of both to your desired setting. Give the fridge about 24 hours to cool to your set temperature.

How much does it cost to fix a freezer compressor?

Depending on the type of fridge, new compressor prices range from $100 to $500. With labor fees, the cost to replace a compressor is between $250 and $650.

Is a 15 year old refrigerator worth repairing?

A typical refrigerator has a 10- to 20-year lifespan. The longer you have had your refrigerator, the greater the potential repair cost, says The Money Pit. If the refrigerator is less than eight years old, consider repair. If the refrigerator is more than 15 years old, consider replacement.

How much does it cost to replace a fridge motor?

Depending on the type of fridge, new compressor prices range from $100 to $500. With labor fees, the cost to replace a compressor is between $250 and $650.

How do you know if your refrigerator is dying?

Signs Your Refrigerator Is About to DieYour food is spoiling before its expiration date. ... Your freezer is too cold. ... You can hear the motor. ... The back of the fridge feels hot. ... Your electric bill goes up unexpectedly. ... You're seeing condensation or frost. ... You have the fridge-repair guy on speed dial.More items...•

Should I replace or repair?

Simply, when the cost of repair is less than than the value of that piece of equipment, you should repair it. When the cost of repair is higher than the value of the asset, you should replace it.

How Much Does Refrigerator Repair Cost on Average?

The cost of refrigerator repair depends more on the problem than the size or style of your fridge. In general, the national average is between $200 to $300, but you can expect to pay up to $1,000 or as little as $40, depending on what’s wrong.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Refrigerator Per Type of Repair?

Many parts go into a refrigerator—and any one of them could be the source of your problem. When something goes wrong, repairing a single part is typically more cost-effective than investing in a totally new fridge.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Refrigerator Repair?

Both materials and labor affect the overall cost of refrigerator repairs. Fixing existing parts will usually be cheaper than replacements because installation is generally a pricier process, and new parts can be expensive in their own right—a refrigerator door can cost up to $700, for example.

How Much Does It Cost to Repair a Refrigerator Yourself?

There are certain refrigerator parts that you can absolutely repair on your own, including a door seal, a clogged drain pipe, and an unstable drip pan. Here’s a quick breakdown of the cost of materials to fix these items:

How can I avoid refrigerator repair?

In order to avoid the need for repairs, clean the coils from time to time, keep the door closed, place the appliance in an adequately ventilated location, and don’t overload it.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a refrigerator?

Unless you’re dealing with major issues or replacements, most refrigerator repairs will cost significantly less than buying a new one . If your fridge is only a few years old, there’s usually a way to correct the problem while staying within your budget.

How Much Does Freezer Repair Cost?

Fixing a freezer is generally more expensive than fixing a fridge because it’s an appliance that’s more technologically complex. Expect to pay between $90 and $650 for most freezer repairs.

What is the average refrigerator repair cost?

The average cost of refrigerator repair can generally range from $250 to $500. This is not a definitive price but when it comes to getting your fridge repaired, many things should be taken into consideration.

What are diagnostic costs?

This fee will usually be in the neighborhood of $50 to $90.

What are some straightforward fridge repairs?

Some repairs that are generally worthwhile include cleaning a dirty coil, unclogging a drain line, or replacing a faulty thermostat.

What Causes Some Fridge Repairs to be Expensive?

Some more expensive fridge repair costs include replacing the compressor, which can cost at least $300 to $500 but may cost much more. You should never try to replace your own compressor; the job requires specialized training and tools because of the refrigerants involved. Other repairs, such as replacing defroster and freezer fan motors, evaporator fan motors, circuit boards, door seals or freezer components, can easily cost you $200 to $250 or more.

How Much Does it Cost to Repair an Icemaker?

On average, icemaker repairs will cost about $330. However, before calling a repairman about your malfunctioning ice maker, check to see if the hose is frozen. A frozen hose can be thawed out in warm water, and this could restore function to your ice maker. If your ice is ready and your ice maker still won’t shut off, it could need repairs. If your ice maker makes increasingly louder noises than normal, this is another sign that it could need repair.

Why won't my fridge stay cold?

A fridge that won’t stay cold is usually suffering from a bad thermostat or a dirty coil. Both of these problems can be fixed in about an hour, and will cost about $50 to $250. A leaking fridge is usually a sign of a clogged freezer drain pipe, and could cost a little or a lot to fix, depending on how much ice is clogging the pipe.

How old should a fridge be to be repaired?

As for other styles of fridge, a side-by-side unit should be repaired if it’s less than five years old; a bottom-freezer fridge should be repaired if it’s less than seven years old; and a top-freezer model should be repaired if it’s less than three to six years old.

Why is my refrigerator leaking water?

If your appliance is leaking water underneath, the most likely cause is dirty coils or a leaking evaporator coil. Dirty coils can cause ice to build up, which melts, appearing as a leak beneath the fridge. A leaking evaporator coil can leak due to a crack or break from the liquid expanding and cooling. Depending on the issue, this could have several solutions. The most common include cleaning the coils or fixing them. Expect to pay $60 to $200, depending on the issue.

Why is my refrigerator too warm?

It keeps the air circulating over the coil, which keeps it cooling down the liquid as it returns to the compressor. If your fan fails, the evaporator is not as effective. When this happens, you may find that your fridge is too warm.

How to repair a refrigerator?

Additional Considerations and Costs 1 Refrigerator repairs should come with a guarantee. However, not all of them are the same. Make sure you know if yours covers parts, labor, or both. For example, many warranties cover the cost of replacement parts but do not account for labor charges. 2 Knowing as much information as possible helps your technician make an accurate diagnosis. Provide the make, model, type, and context on the problem when placing your service call. 3 Ask your service technician about used or factory-reconditioned parts. Used parts do not normally come with a guarantee. Installing used parts might also void your warranty. 4 Many repairs are covered under a warranty or extended warranty. Some warranties require you to have the work done by a factory-authorized repair shop or the dealer who originally sold you the appliance. 5 A builder’s guarantee or home warranty may cover appliance repair. Check the coverage details if you recently purchased a home and received a homebuyer’s warranty at closing. 6 Some minor problems like condensation, rattling, broken fridge light, or poor water dispensary may have easy DIY solutions, such as emptying the drip pan or replacing the clips ( $5-$10 ), replacing the lightbulb ( $2-$10 ), or changing the filter ( $20-$40 ).

What happens if a refrigerator compressor breaks?

When this breaks, the coolant cannot be circulated, meaning that the fridge will warm up. If the compressor breaks and is not replaced right away, this can lead to spoiled food.

Why does my refrigerator shut down?

This includes the coils, evaporator, and compressor. Sometimes if the sealed system fails, it is because of one piece like the evaporator or compressor . This can start a cascade of problems that can cause the entire system to shut down.

What happens if your refrigerator stops keeping food cold?

Most families have a fridge large enough to hold perishable food for several days. If your refrigerator stops keeping your food cold, begins leaking, becomes noisy, or does not work, you need to fix it immediately.

How much to fix a mini fridge?

Unfortunately, the cost to repair them is often comparable to the cost of a full-sized refrigerator. For small repairs, expect to pay between $50 and $250. You may want to replace the mini fridge for larger repairs because the replacement cost may be less than the repair costs. This includes fixing the condenser, evaporator, coils, and freezer. If the issue is the door seal, thermostat, or dirty coils, these are all easily repaired.

Factors in Calculating Refrigerator Repair Cost

A few factors impact refrigerator repair costs. Prices can differ from the national average due to diagnostic fees, materials, labor, and the issue and type of repair needed.

Refrigerator Issues

Even if you think your refrigerator has a minor problem, it’s better to get it fixed quickly instead of waiting until it develops into a bigger issue. Here are some of the most common refrigerator issues and how much they typically cost to repair.

Repairing vs. Replacing a Refrigerator: Which One Is Better?

Typically, most refrigerator repairs will cost less than buying a new one. The rule of thumb is that if the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of purchasing a new refrigerator, you may be better off replacing it.

Do I Need a New Refrigerator?

A refrigerator will give you a few signs that it’s ready to be replaced rather than simply needing a repair. If the cost of repairs is more than half the cost of a new fridge, it might be time to start looking for a replacement. Here are a few of the most obvious signs that you need a new refrigerator.

Refrigerator Repair Cost: DIY vs. Hiring a Professional

Suppose you’re handy and have some DIY experience. In that case, you may prefer to tackle some straightforward refrigerator repairs on your own, such as replacing a rubber door gasket, cleaning coils, unclogging a drain line, or cleaning the drip pan. An experienced professional should do more advanced repairs.

How to Save Money on Refrigerator Repair Costs

Refrigerator repair costs can be high, and the additional fees associated with the repairs can quickly add up. One way to save money on refrigerator repair costs is to hire the cheapest repair technician you can find, but there are other ways to save without compromising quality.

Questions to Ask a Professional About Refrigerator Repair

Asking the right questions about refrigerator repair costs can minimize miscommunication and save money. Here are some questions to ask a refrigerator repair professional.

How Do Freezers Work?

Both standalone freezers and freezer/refrigerator combos are cooled with two sets of coils: condenser coils and evaporative coils. Separated by an expansion valve, the compressor pump pressurizes the refrigerant.

What Are Some Common Freezer Problems?

The cost for freezer repair comes down to the labor price and the cost for replacement parts. Not surprisingly, the most expensive repairs are those with the most complex, specialized parts—such as the control board, compressor or thermostat. There are easier problems to solve with freezers, however, which could mean a cheaper fix.

Can I DIY Freezer Repair?

If you are handy with DIYs and willing to address problems with your freezer while avoiding major appliance repair costs, you may be able to get the job done. Some of the DIY freezer repair projects, with the best likelihood of success, including fixing the thermostat, the door gasket or the door switch.

What happens when you spray ultra chilled refrigerant through evaporative coils?

When that ultra-chilled refrigerant is sprayed through to the evaporative coils that have lower pressure, the refrigerant evaporates and the cool temperature is left behind.

What temperature should a freezer be set at?

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, freezer temperatures should be set at 0 degrees Fahrenheit for food safety. If your freezer’s temperature gauge keeps ticking upward, it could be an issue with the internal components, temperature sensor or refrigerant. A professional freezer technician should be able to diagnose the issue. But, remember, freezers tend to last 20 years at most.

How much does a freezer repair technician charge?

On average, appliance repair technicians charge $60 to $70 per hour.

How long does a freezer last?

With proper maintenance and care, freezers can be expected to last anywhere from 12 to 20 years. Paying the cost for a freezer repair will usually be less expensive than springing for a new one, which could easily cost more than $700 for an upright freezer or more than $600 for a chest freezer once installed.

How to check if refrigerator compressor is working?

The first sign of a faulty compressor is if your refrigerator stops cooling. Here are some easy checks to rule out other issues: 1 Check that the fridge has power — the light should go on when the door opens. 2 Make sure the thermostat is set to your desired temperature. 3 Unplug the fridge, pull it away from the wall and check the coils or fan to make sure there are no blockages.

Why is freon not in refrigerators?

Freon is a refrigerant that’s not present in most modern fridges because it harms the ozone layer. Similar to “Kleenex,” while Freon is an actual brand it’s often used interchangeably for refrigerants as a whole. Unlike putting gas in a car, you shouldn’t have to add Freon to your fridge.

What to do if your fridge isn't cooling?

If everything looks good and your fridge still isn’t cooling, call an appliance technician near you to figure out the problem.

Why is my refrigerator not cooling?

Sometimes the reason a fridge isn’t working is simply because it’s not properly plugged in ! Return to Top. Help us improve this article.

Why is my fridge low on feon?

A fridge is low on Freon if it’s leaking Freon. If you notice your food isn’t staying cold, the motor is running more than usual (or even constantly) and/or you notice a chemical smell, this could indicate a leak.

What does a compressor do in a refrigerator?

A compressor moves refrigerant throughout your fridge, helping regulate the temperature. When a compressor isn’t working, your food won’t keep cold.

How much does a mini fridge technician charge?

An appliance technician might charge an hourly rate ranging from $45 to $120 per hour to fix a mini fridge. A service charge might add an additional $150 to $200 to your bill.

Does my fridge freezer warranty cover repairs?

In some cases, yes. Many manufacturer warranties will cover repairs if your fridge freezer breaks, so it’s always worth checking with them first before hiring a professional to come and fix it.

Can I repair my fridge freezer myself?

Unless you have experience in dealing with electrical goods, we strongly recommend hiring a professional to repair your fridge. Many of the problems will involve fitting new parts, which require experience and skills to carry out the work.

What to do if you don't have a warranty on a fridge freezer?

If you don’t have a valid warranty, contact local fridge freezer repair experts for advice and accurate prices.

How long does a fridge freezer last?

A typical fridge freezer should last between 8-10 years. If your fridge freezer is over ten years old, it’s most likely that it would be better to replace it rather than repairing it.

Why is my fridge making a noise?

Fridge is freezing food. Fridge or freezer isn’t cold enough. Ice build-up in the freezer. Fridge freezer is making an unusual noise. The extent of the problem and the overall condition of your fridge will affect the cost of repairs. If you’re experiencing any problems with your fridge freezer, contact a local expert for advice on how to fix it.

How long does a guaranteed tradesperson last?

Book a guaranteed tradesperson and your projects will be covered for 12 months.

Is appliance repair possible?

Appliance repair is more possible than ever now that the UK has introduced the right to repair scheme. Find out more about the right to repair here.

How much does a refrigerator compressor cost?

Parts. Replacement parts for a fridge or freezer can add up. A new thermostat or valve may be cheap, but a new compressor can cost upwards of $400.

What does it mean when a fridge leaks?

Leakage. A leaky fridge may signify a plumbing problem, but leaks can also mean there are other faulty components.

Why does my refrigerator make a loud noise?

It could be due to a faulty part or insecure internal component.

How much does it cost to fix a fridge?

A repairperson who visits your home may charge a service fee. This can be anywhere from $50 to $100 or more.

Can you wash a broken refrigerator by hand?

A broken refrigerator or freezer is a major headache. When a dishwasher goes, you can at least wash things by hand. But a broken refrigerator inhibits the food you can keep in your own home. You’ll want to attend to the problem quickly, but how much will a refrigerator or freezer repair cost?

Is it expensive to repair a refrigerator?

Refrigerator repair is expensive, but the good news is you can use warranties to your advantage to protect yourself from such high costs. You can consider a refrigerator extended warranty to maintain coverage even when the original manufacturer’s warranty expires. You can also purchase a more comprehensive home warranty to cover your refrigerator and other appliances in your home.

How long does it take to make ice cubes in a refrigerator?

A high-performing ice maker in the freezer makes about 8 to 10 ice cubes in 1.5 hours. However, when you first install a new refrigerator expect it to take 6 to 12 hours. You should also pitch the first 3 batches because the water might not be clean at first.

How much does an ice maker cost?

Ice makers built for the freezer are usually between $50 and $80 but could cost $100 or more. Dedicated ice makers cost more but increase ice production and are more efficient.

Why does my ice maker smell weird?

There are some simple ice maker fixes you can take on yourself. Weird smells might mean there’s food in the ice maker and it needs cleaning, or your ice might have backed up and needs breaking up in order to flow again.

How does a refrigerator ice mold work?

Water automatically fills into the ice mold and sensors tell when it’s full. The refrigerator cooling unit freezes the water. Sensors and a thermostat work together to turn off the electric switch and begin heating coils. Heating coils just below the ice mold loosen the cubes. Once the cubes drop, they fall down into the collection bin.

How much does it cost to replace an ice maker?

On average, it costs $370 to replace an ice maker. Replacing an old ice maker might only cost $300, whereas installing one for the first time could cost up to $420. Considering the average fridge installation costs $1,500, replacing an ice maker might be a more cost-efficient option.

What does the button do when you're ready for ice?

When you’re ready for ice, the button or lever that you press into opens the chute and sends ice cubes through.

Do ice makers have a motor?

Ice makers have a motor and hook up to the same circuit that your fridge uses, along with a plumbing line.

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