Fridge making noise at 10 pm with $200 of food inside? Use the $300 rule to decide in 60 seconds.
Quick Answer: If repair < $300 AND fridge is < 8 years old, fix it. If repair > $800 or fridge is 12+ years old, replace it. Food spoilage costs $200-400 per failure. Use the calculator below.
The Fix My Fridge or Replace Calculator
Enter your numbers – get Fix or Replace verdict instantly.
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When to Fix Your Fridge
- Repair < $300 and fridge < 8 years old
- Simple fix: ice maker, thermostat, seal
- You haven’t had 2+ repairs in the last year
When to Replace
- Repair > $800 or compressor failure
- Fridge 12+ years old (new ones use 50% less energy)
- Food spoiling twice in 6 months
