Is it cheaper to repair or replace a fridge?

Whether it is cheaper to repair or replace a fridge depends on age, repair cost, and efficiency, following the 50 percent rule and considering energy savings. Repair is cheaper if the fridge is under 8 years old and repair cost is less than 50 percent of replacement cost. Minor repairs like water inlet valve for 150 to 250 dollars, ice maker for 150 to 300 dollars, evaporator fan motor for 150 to 250 dollars, door gasket for 100 to 200 dollars, or defrost heater for 200 to 350 dollars are usually cheaper than buying a new fridge costing 600 to 1,000 dollars for top-freezer, 1,000 to 1,800 for side-by-side, and 1,500 to 2,800 for French door. Replacement is cheaper if the fridge is over 10 to 12 years old, repair cost exceeds 50 percent of replacement cost, or it needs sealed system repair like compressor at 400 to 700 dollars, evaporator or condenser leak at 400 to 800 dollars, or refrigerant recharge, as these are expensive and indicate system wear that will cause more failures. Also consider energy efficiency: a 12-year-old fridge uses 20 to 30 percent more electricity than new Energy Star models, saving 80 to 150 dollars per year, so replacement pays back. If you have had two repairs in last year, replace it. For a 10 year old fridge needing a 400 dollar repair, if new costs 1,200, repair is cheaper short term but replacement may save long term. Get written estimate.