What's The Typical Lifespan Of A Maytag Refrigerator?
Maybe you're thinking about buying a Maytag refrigerator. Or perhaps you already have one — and you suspect it could be on its last legs. Either way, it's helpful to understand the typical lifespan of these appliances if you own one (or might soon). On average, Maytag refrigerators typically last between 10 and 15 years, according to data from Liberty Home Guard, a home warranty provider.
To get this estimate, Liberty Home Guard reviewed more than 10,000 refrigerator warranty claims processed in 2025 and 2026. Of those, 215 were for Maytag fridges. However, as the company points out, that could be indicative of Maytag's smaller customer base (and doesn't necessarily mean its products are more reliable than other options). In fact, the research revealed that the life expectancy of Maytag refrigerators is on par with several other big-name brands, including LG, Frigidaire, and Whirlpool (Maytag's parent company).
So, how do you know if your refrigerator is nearing the end of its life? No matter which brand you have, there are a few common signs that it's time to replace your fridge. For starters, if there's excessive condensation inside the unit, it might simply mean that the rubber gasket on the door needs to be swapped out — or it could signal that your refrigerator is on its last legs. Similarly, if your fridge is louder than usual or hot to the touch, you might be due for a new one.
Tips for keeping your refrigerator running as long as possible
Now, for some good news: With routine and regular maintenance, you may be able to extend the lifespan of your fridge. We'll start with a simple tip, courtesy of Consumer Reports: Clean your door gaskets regularly. If they're covered in liquid or food, your fridge might not seal properly — which can put more stress on it. All you need to do is wipe them down with a damp sponge, then go over them with a dry cloth to get rid of any remaining water.
If you have pets or lots of people regularly using your kitchen, you should inspect and clean your refrigerator coils every three to six months, according to Whirlpool. Otherwise, they can collect dust, hair, and other grime, forcing them to work harder and putting extra strain on the whole appliance. To do this, unplug your fridge and find the coils. Depending on the model, they could be behind a grate in the front or back of the unit. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum to gently remove debris from the coils, then replace the grate and plug it back in.
A couple of last tips: If your Maytag fridge has a water filter, the manufacturer suggests swapping it out twice a year. You can find a list of Maytag-approved filters on the company's website, but they're all made by Everydrop (another brand owned by Whirlpool). Finally, if possible, don't keep anything on top of your refrigerator. It can be tempting to use it for storage (especially if you live in a tight apartment or have a small kitchen), but that space is important for ventilation. If it's blocked, it could affect your fridge's performance.