It has been established that there are many ways in which your refrigerator could break down. Once you’ve figured out the exact issue, you need to know your next step.

How do you determine if your fridge can and should be fixed, or whether replacing it would be a better financial move? Here are three factors you should consider.

1. How old is your refrigerator?

The life expectancy of a refrigerator, at a minimum, is generally about 13 years. Single-door fridges can last longer, to 20 years, while others might last between 15 and 17 years.

The best way to prolong the life of your fridge is by sticking to a regular maintenance schedule that includes cleaning the coils and door seals at least once a month.

Placing your fridge away from other appliances that produce heat, such as the microwave, oven, washing machine and dryer, could also help prolong its lifespan.

If you’re thinking of repairing your refrigerator, make sure to check the warranty first. This is why it’s important to keep your warranty card.

If your fridge model is older than 10 years, there is highly likely the warranty would have expired, meaning the cost of repairs would fall on you.

Older models also cost more to repair, so make sure you weigh the options of repairing your current fridge against a newer model that won’t give you any issues for the next several years.

2. What type of fridge do you have?

The type of refrigerator you have also plays a part when you’re deciding whether to repair it or buy a new one.

• Built-in fridge: This type of fridge, designed to flow seamlessly with the layout of your home, is worth repairing as costs are way less than getting a new one installed. It also has a longer life expectancy.
• Side-by-side fridge: This refers to the type of fridge with left- and right-hand doors, like a cupboard. If problems occur within the first five years of its purchase, it is better to have it repaired. After that, it would be financially smarter to get a replacement.
• Bottom freezer fridge: It is best to repair this type of fridge within seven years of its purchase and use. Consider replacing it if problems start to arise thereafter.
• Top freezer fridge: The best bang for your buck is to repair this type of fridge during the first four years of its purchase.

3. How bad is the damage?

The final piece of the puzzle is to determine the source and severity of the problem. Certain specific parts, such as the compressor, would cost more to fix than other components of the fridge, so you would have to weigh the cost of this against the price of buying a brand-new unit.

If the fridge is older than 10 years and there are many parts that have become damaged, you might as well get it replaced.

The best thing to do upon detecting a problem with your current refrigerator is to call a service professional to better identify the issue, and the price you might have to pay to get it fixed versus replaced.

This article originally appeared on Recommend.my – Malaysia’s #1 Home Improvement Services Platform, offering a safer and more convenient way to hire the best home improvement and home maintenance professionals. From flooring to interior design to air-conditioner servicing, get access to thousands of the best local contractors and professionals at your fingertips.