Fridge lifespan: how long does it last?
Fridge: 10 to 15 years on average, so around 13 years in normal household use. Regular maintenance routinely pushes past the top of that range.
A fridge lasts 10 to 15 years on average, one of the longest lifespans in the home. Its compressor, the key component, is designed to run continuously for more than a decade.
One caveat: an old fridge that still works can be expensive to keep. A 15-year-old model often uses two to three times the electricity of a current one in the same class.
Signs it is reaching the end
- The motor runs constantly and never cuts out
- Cooling becomes uneven: some areas freeze, others aren't cold enough
- Frost builds up unusually fast (worn door seal)
- The back of the appliance becomes very hot
- Water pools in the bottom of the compartment (blocked drain)
The maintenance that extends its life
Dust the rear grille (condenser)
How often: every 6 to 12 months
Clear the drain hole at the back of the compartment
How often: every 3 months
Check the door seal (the sheet-of-paper test)
How often: every 6 months
Defrost if the model isn't frost free
How often: once frost reaches 3 mm
Repair or replace?
A thermostat or a door seal costs little to replace and easily buys several more years. A compressor failure or a refrigerant leak, on the other hand, is expensive: on an appliance over 10 years old, replacing is often the better call, especially as the saving on your electricity bill offsets part of the purchase.
Having an out-of-warranty fridge repaired by a QualiRépar-certified repairer in France entitles you to 25€ taken straight off the invoice. No paperwork, nothing to pay up front: the repairer deducts it from the total.
How to claim the repair bonus →Common faults
Frequently asked questions
How long does a fridge last on average?
Between 10 and 15 years, averaging around 13. It is one of the most durable appliances in the house, provided you dust the rear grille once or twice a year.
Should you replace an old fridge that still works?
It can pay off: a 15-year-old fridge often uses two to three times the electricity of a current model. If yours runs constantly and your bill is high, a replacement can pay for itself within a few years.
Why does my fridge run all the time?
The most common causes are a worn door seal letting warm air in, a dusty rear grille that traps heat, or a failing thermostat. Start by cleaning the grille and testing the seal.