Repairing Guides

how much to repair a refrigerator

by Taurean Hackett Published 2 years ago Updated 2 years ago
image

Refrigerator Repair Cost Breakdown

  • Compressor: $200–$450
  • Control board: $80–$800
  • Thermostat: $100–$440
  • Defrost motor: $100–$440
  • Coils: $100–$440
  • Door seal: $50–$440
  • Drip pan: $50–$440
  • Ice maker: $60–$330

Full Answer

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 to get an estimate for repairing your refrigerator?

​How to get an estimate for repairing your refrigerator

  • Check the warranty. Firstly, check if your refrigerator is still covered under the manufacturer's warranty. ...
  • Check for recalls or lemons. ...
  • Write a description of the problem. ...
  • Get three quotes: The retailer, another dealer and an independent repair shop. ...
  • Understand what the quotes cover. ...
  • Pick a quote. ...

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.

Should I repair or replace my Refrigerator?

  • Side-by-side refrigerators are less than five years old.
  • Top-freezer refrigerators are less than six years old.
  • Bottom-freezer refrigerators are less than seven years old.

image

Is it worth it to repair a refrigerator?

Two good rules of thumb to keep in mind are that if repairing your fridge costs less than half the price of buying a new one, it's generally worth making those repairs.

How much does it cost to fix a fridge that's not cooling?

If your fridge isn't cooling properly, your thermostat is likely malfunctioning. Repairing a refrigerator thermostat costs around $100 to $300.

How much does it cost to repair the refrigerator?

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 compressor?

Compressor Issues Replacing the compressor is one of the pricier refrigerator repairs. Including labor, refrigerator compressor costs can run between $250 and $650, and the price of a new compressor averages between $100 and $500.

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 would cause a refrigerator to stop getting cold?

Evaporator coils are covered in frost But if the fan stops working, the coils may frost over. Remove the back panel in your freezer to see if the coils are frosted. If so, empty out the freezer and fridge, unplug the unit, and let the coils thaw for a day or two.

What is average life of a refrigerator?

between 10 and 20 yearsMost refrigerators are designed to last between 10 and 20 years. If you're having any of the other problems on this list and the fridge is over ten years old, you'll probably save more money in the long run by simply replacing it. Otherwise, you could sink money into repairs for a fridge that's already on its way out.

How do you fix a refrigerator that is not cooling?

0:103:14Troubleshooting a Refrigerator Not Cooling - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipToday. We're going to talk about a refrigerator not cooling. If you came here refrigerator runningMoreToday. We're going to talk about a refrigerator not cooling. If you came here refrigerator running the first thing we need to do is check for power open the refrigerator door and see if the light

What are the signs of a bad refrigerator compressor?

What Are the Signs of a Bad Refrigerator Compressor?Your Refrigerator is Constantly Running. Does it seem like your refrigerator is running all the time? ... Your Energy Bill is Rising. ... It Doesn't Stay Cold. ... You Hear More Noise than Usual. ... The Circuit Breaker Trips. ... You Notice a Burning Smell. ... Refrigerator Problems?

Is it worth fixing a refrigerator compressor?

Well, if the refrigerator has turned more than 10-15 years, there is no point of investing money on the repairing. A new compressor will cost half of the total cost of a refrigerator. So, basically, you can spend a little more and buy a brand new refrigerator equipped with a new compressor.

What causes fridge compressor failure?

Too Little or Too Much Refrigerant In the event that the amount of refrigerant in the system is not perfect, it could create too much pressure or strain and lead to compressor failure. Too little refrigerant is most likely caused by an insufficient charge from the last technician, or from a refrigerant leak.

What is the average life of a refrigerator compressor?

Although plans for a replacement should start around eight years of service, a well-maintained compressor can reach to ten years and beyond. As it ages, efficiency loss is gradual at first.

Is it worth fixing a refrigerator compressor?

Well, if the refrigerator has turned more than 10-15 years, there is no point of investing money on the repairing. A new compressor will cost half of the total cost of a refrigerator. So, basically, you can spend a little more and buy a brand new refrigerator equipped with a new compressor.

What are the signs of a bad refrigerator compressor?

What Are the Signs of a Bad Refrigerator Compressor?Your Refrigerator is Constantly Running. Does it seem like your refrigerator is running all the time? ... Your Energy Bill is Rising. ... It Doesn't Stay Cold. ... You Hear More Noise than Usual. ... The Circuit Breaker Trips. ... You Notice a Burning Smell. ... Refrigerator Problems?

How much does it cost to repair refrigerator thermostat?

$100 - $440What Are Common Refrigerator Repair Costs?RepairAverage CostThermostat replacement$100 - $440Coils replacement$100 - $440Door seal replacement$50 - $440Drip pan replacement$50 - $2003 more rows•Apr 27, 2022

How much does it cost to add Freon to refrigerator?

Estimating Refrigerant Replacement Costs The cost of freon, more commonly known as refrigerant, is $4 to $10 per pound. If there appears to be a problem with the refrigerant, other parts that may need fixing or replacing may cost anywhere from $100 to $400 (not including labor).

What Are Some Common Refrigerator Problems?

When you call a professional to help with a refrigeration system repair, you are paying for both their time and the expense of any parts that are needed for the fix. There is a direct correlation between the ease of the repair and the cost you will pay. The cost may also increase beyond the national average if your refrigerator is old or an uncommon model because both of these scenarios make it hard to find the correct replacement parts.

Can I DIY Refrigerator Repair?

If you are handy with DIYs and willing to address problems with your refrigerator while avoiding major appliance repair costs, you may be able to get the job done. Some relatively easy and straightforward DIY refrigerator repair projects include cleaning the coils, unclogging the defrost drain and fixing a door gasket.

What is needed to work in a refrigerator?

To work effectively, the system needs a compressor, condenser, evaporator, capillary tube, thermostat and sealed refrigerator box so the temperature can be controlled. If any one of these parts is not working, the entire refrigeration process may suffer.

Why is my refrigerator leaking water?

Water leaking from the refrigerator is a sign that something isn’t right, in addition to creating a hazard for anyone walking by. That’s why it should be addressed as quickly as possible. Fortunately, a DIY fridge repair may be possible for water leaking: In many cases, the culprit is a blocked defrost drain that’s located on the back wall of the refrigerator.

Why is my refrigerator noisy?

A noisy refrigerator is more than a nuisance. It’s a sign that your refrigerator is not operating efficiently, which may be costing you your utility bills because it is cycling too often . You can attempt a DIY repair on this by unplugging your refrigerator, moving it away from the wall and cleaning off the condenser coils on the backside of the refrigerator. In many cases, dust and debris on the coils are to blame—and wiping them down will get the fridge back in tip-top shape.

How old should a refrigerator be to get a new one?

As a good rule of thumb, if your refrigerator is less than eight years old or is a high-end model, it’s better to pay the price for a repair than to get a new refrigerator.

How much does it cost to fix a refrigerator?

From poor temperature regulation and leaks to noises that tell you something isn’t quite right, there are a number of valid reasons for calling a professional to fix your refrigerator. Nationally, the average refrigerator repair cost is $250.

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.

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.

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.

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.

What is a fridge repair technician?

From fixing a clog in the drain lines to replacing the ice maker to replacing a faulty compressor, our technicians are highly trained and specialized in fridge maintenance and repair.

What is the most used appliance in the home?

The refrigerator is the most-used appliance in the home. Unlike any of the other appliances, like the washer, dryer, or dishwasher, your refrigerator is constantly working day in and day out to keep your food cold and safe to consume.

How long does it take to schedule an appointment with Puls?

Scheduling an appointment with Puls is easy and only takes seconds, thanks to our convenient, user-friendly website. Plus, our technicians are typically able to get to you quickly, often even arriving to fix your appliance within the same day that you schedule it. (And really, how often does that happen with repair companies?)

How much does it cost to fix a broken refrigerator?

Though your refrigerator repair costs will largely depend on where you’re at in the country, what the issue is, and what brand you have, you can largely expect to spend an average of $200 –$300 to repair a broken refrigerator. But you can often get a diagnosis for as little as $79.

Who is Jamie Birdwell?

Jamie Birdwell-Branson is a professional writer whose work has appeared on nationally-recognized sites, including Elle Decor, Zillow, BobVila.com, InStyle and others. She has been a Puls staff writer since 2018. When she's not writing for Puls she is either setting up Google alerts for flights to Europe, antiquing, or attempting to fix things in her 1940s Colonial-style house.

Do we charge extras on a fridge?

We don’t believe in charging for “extras” that will surprise you at the end when you get the bill. Our straightforward numbers help you prepare exactly how much you’ll need to set aside to get your fridge back in business, which we know is the most important thing.

Do you pay by the hour for parts and labor?

Depending on the company, they may price by the hour, charge you for parts and labor, and others will only charge you a flat rate for everything. If you’re unsure of how their rates work, don’t be afraid to ask the technician before they get started on the job.

Other considerations and costs

If you have a refrigerator that is more than 15 years old, it is often better to have it replaced rather than continue to repair it.

DIY considerations

Making major repairs to a refrigerator is not typically a DIY project. It takes knowledge of how the systems work to ensure that they are fixed properly. Those without experience will often do more harm than good.

Here are the common things that can go wrong with your refrigerator compressor

If your fridge compressor is damaged then it will stop working properly. It means that there is a problem with the electrical system or the compressor is damaged. This is one of the most common problem faced by people. If you are facing this problem then you need to call for repair services immediately.

FAQs About How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Refrigerator Compressor

A bad refrigerator compressor will not cool the food inside the fridge. The freezer may also stop working, or frost might form on the inside of the fridge.

Conclusion

If you are facing any of the above-mentioned problems with your fridge compressor then it is the right time to call for the professional service.

image
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9