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When my husband and I bought our refrigerator back in 2012, I joked with the salesperson that appliances never seem to last more than 10 years anymore. I expected a laugh—but instead, he nodded in agreement. And he wasn’t wrong.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average refrigerator lasts about 12 years. Considering it’s one of the hardest-working appliances in your home—running 24/7—it’s no surprise that proper maintenance is key to keeping it in top shape for as long as possible.
The good news? A few simple, routine steps can extend the life of your refrigerator, improve energy efficiency, and reduce the risk of expensive repairs. Here’s how to get the most out of one of your most-used appliances.
1. Clean the Refrigerator Coils Regularly
The condenser coils release heat as your fridge cools your food. Over time, those coils collect dust, dirt, food particles, and even pet hair. When the coils are dirty, the refrigerator has to work much harder, which increases wear and tear.
What to do:
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Locate the coils (usually behind the appliance or along the bottom front).
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Pull the fridge away from the wall or remove the front cover if needed.
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Use a coil-cleaning brush, a vacuum, or a stiff brush to remove dust and debris.
Doing this every 6 to 12 months can keep the fridge operating efficiently and prevent overheating.
2. Inspect and Clean the Door Seal (Gasket)
A tight door seal is essential for keeping cold air inside your refrigerator. If the gasket is dirty, cracked, or loose, cold air escapes—forcing your fridge to run longer and raising your energy bills.
How to maintain the seal:
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Clean it twice a year using warm soapy water or a baking-soda-and-water mixture.
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Use a toothbrush to scrub away grime in the folds.
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If you notice cracks, tearing, or warping, replace the gasket—most hardware stores carry universal options.
A healthy seal can make a surprising difference in both performance and efficiency.
3. Make Sure Your Refrigerator Is Level
A slightly unlevel fridge might not seem like a big deal, but it can keep the doors from closing correctly. Even a small gap can allow cold air to escape and cause the motor to overwork.
Quick fix:
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Place a level on an interior shelf.
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Adjust the refrigerator’s feet or slide a thin shim under one corner to correct the balance.
Ensuring proper alignment keeps the door tight and the temperature consistent.
4. Check and Maintain Proper Temperature Settings
Setting the correct temperature is one of the easiest ways to improve your refrigerator’s efficiency and extend its life.
Ideal temperature settings:
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Refrigerator: 37–40°F
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Freezer: 0°F or below
Maintaining these ranges helps reduce strain on the compressor and keeps your food fresher for longer.
Regular Maintenance Keeps Your Fridge Running Longer
Taking care of your refrigerator doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. A little routine maintenance can:
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Improve efficiency
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Lower your utility bills
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Prevent mechanical failures
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Extend the lifespan of the appliance
Given how costly refrigerators are to replace, these simple steps are well worth the effort. By staying proactive, you can enjoy years of reliable use from the appliance you depend on every single day.
