What's The Average Lifespan Of A Whirlpool Refrigerator?

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

Refrigerators aren't what they used to be — they are lighter, use less than half the electricity, and the inflation-adjusted price has decreased. What hasn't changed much in the last 40 years is how long a refrigerator really lasts. The Department of Energy reports that most modern fridges last about 12 years. As for Whirlpool fridges specifically, they tend to last around 15 years, but you might be able to get up to 20 years out of one. A fridge's life expectancy depends on the model and how well it's maintained, but Whirlpool is among the most trustworthy and reliable appliance brands. If you're worried about manufacturing issues like planned obsolescence, a Whirlpool fridge may put your mind at ease.

The Whirlpool brand has been popular for decades, and its durable refrigerators are at the higher end of the appliance's lifespan range. The longest-lasting Whirlpool fridges are top-freezer models, which last 18 to 22 years on average, especially if you keep the condenser coils clean and the door seals tight. However, like any fridge, if you overfill it, constantly open and close the doors, or push it too close to the wall so it can't get airflow, it won't last as long. And even though Whirlpool builds the compressors and thermostats to last, they may have to be replaced before it's time for the final curtain.

There are numerous factors to consider when it comes to longevity and Whirlpool refrigerators. For the most reliable model, choose one of the brand's top-freezer types, such as the Whirlpool 30 in. 19 cu. ft. Standard Depth Top Freezer Refrigerator. It's currently priced around $977, but there are different sizes of top-freezer models at a range of price points to choose from. If a top-freezer model isn't your style, Whirlpool's side-by-side, French door, and bottom freezer configurations all have above-average lifespans of 15 years or more.

Gaining a better understanding of the Whirlpool Corporation can also inform the decisions you make when you're fridge shopping. If you ever wondered what happened to Maytag, if Amana is worth checking out, or whether KitchenAid is a better brand than Whirlpool, the answer is that they're all under the same corporate umbrella. The quality and prices of the Whirlpool Corporation's products vary, and the Whirlpool label represents the family-focused tier that's built to be an efficient workhorse.

Sometimes, if a fridge breaks down, that's it, but many times it can be repaired by recharging the refrigerant or replacing the compressor. Since these fixes usually cost about half the price of a new model, many people prefer to get a new fridge. Still, it is an option that can extend the life of the unit you already own. Even small maintenance tasks, like cleaning or replacing the door gaskets, can help you avoid mechanical problems.