article

Replacing Your Kitchen Refrigerator

By Bluehammer Admin

Refrigerators are the most important appliance in the Kitchen. The following are some helpful tips when it comes time to replace it.

Should I Repair or Replace my Refrigerator?

If your refrigerator is out of warranty then the decision to repair or replace your old refrigerator depends on a few factors.

The first factor is identifying what is not working with your current refrigerator. Is the refrigerator not cold anymore? Does it cycle on and off frequently? Is the built-in ice-maker not making ice or is it just making weird noises all the time? Being able to isolate the problem, such as leaking coming from a hose, makes it easier to estimate the repair cost helping you with your decision. If you can't identify the problem it might be a bigger issue requiring higher costs. One thing to note, if the sealed part of your refrigerator or freezer needs to be serviced, it has to be performed by a professional. If that's the case then it is usually more cost effective to replace the appliance.

The second is age. If you have an older refrigerator, the cost to repair it vs the cost to buy a new one might not be that different if the parts needed are no longer in stock. Also if you factor in the energy savings from having a new energy efficient refrigerator, it might make more sense to replace the existing one. If your refrigerator is relatively new, it might be worth it to have it fixed as the likely culprit is one bad part instead of wear and tear of all the parts due to age.

The third factor is the type of refrigerator. If you have a built-in refrigerator, it makes sense to try and repair it first as replacing it is a much larger project. If you have a free standing refrigerator, look to the age and issue to help guide you in your decision.

If you look at your old refrigerator using these 3 factors as a guide, you should be able to determine if it makes sense to repair or replace the unit.

Cost Factors of Replacing Your Refrigerator

No doubt the biggest factor in the project cost of replacing your refrigerator is the cost of the refrigerator itself. Refrigerators come in all types, sizes and finishes from economy to designer. Built-in refrigerators install either completely flush or framed with cabinetry and generally cost more than free standing ones. Below are the main cost factors in the project of replacing your refrigerator.

  • Removal of the old refrigerator
  • Delivery and installation of the new refrigerator
  • Installing water/ice line (if applicable) and the material costs
  • Hauling away and disposing of the old refrigerator

Also note that when you get a new refrigerator it is always good to check with the manufacturer on how long to let it sit before plugging it in. When a refrigerator is transported in a non-standard position (on its side), compressor oil can run out of the compressor and up refrigerant lines. Waiting will allow the oil to drain back down to the compressor. Failure to wait could mean the compressor will start pumping without sufficient oil leading to damage of the unit. Usually 2 hours is sufficient.

Tips For Keeping Your New Refrigerator Running Great

Once you have your new refrigerator you will want to make sure you take care of your new appliance to keep it running for a long time.

  • Clean the Condenser CoilsUnplug and pull your fridge away from the wall, take a vacuum attachment and vacuum the back coils to remove dust and dirt that cling to the coils. This should be done twice a year.
  • Keep the Rubber Door Seal (Gasket) CleanThe gasket is the rubber seal on the inside edges of your refrigerator and freezer doors. It seals out warm air and can weaken and loosen over time due to dirt and grime. Clean it as needed with any universal cleaner.
  • Clean and Deodorize the InsideRemove old food particles and wipe down any spills with warm soapy water once a week. To keep the air fresh use baking soda or an over the counter deodorizer.
  • Replace the Water Filter (if applicable)Rule of thumb is to replace your water filter every 6 months.

Want to estimate your home improvement costs before talking with a contractor? Claim your home for free with bluehammer to estimate costs, secure your home inventory and learn more about your home.

* THIS REPORT IS AN OPINION THAT MAY BE INACCURATE AND IS PROVIDED SOLELY AS AN INFORMATIONAL TOOL NOT DESIGNED TO PROVIDE DEFINITIVE ANSWERS. ALL ELEMENTS ARE OFFERED "AS IS" AND BLUEBOOK EXPRESSLY DISCLAIM ANY AND ALL WARRANTIES, REPRESENTATIONS, AND GUARANTEES OF ANY NATURE, EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO ANY IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABLITILY, NONINFRINGEMENT, TITLE, QUIET ENJOYMENT, ACCURACY, OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL BLUEBOOK (OR THEIR SUPPLIERS) BE LIABLE FOR ANY GENERAL, DIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, INDIRECT OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OF ANY KIND, OR ANY DAMAGES WHATSOEVER (INCLUDING WITHOUT LIMITATION, THOSE RESULTING FROM USE OF THE PRODUCT, INCLUDING : (1) RELIANCE ON THE MATERIALS PRESENTED, (2) COSTS OF REPLACEMENT GOODS, (3) LOSS OF USE, DATA OR PROFITS, (4) DELAYS OR BUSINESS INTERRUPTIONS, (5) AND ANY THEORY OF LIABILITY, ARISING OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OR PERFORMANCE OF INFORMATION) WHETHER OR NOT BLUEBOOK HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH DAMAGES.

Know what you should pay for your home improvement projects with bluehammer.Claim your home. It's free!

Popular


Easy Architectural Details You Can Add To Your Home

Newer homes, especially those geared toward first-time buyers, are often devoid of the level of architectural detail you would find in older or more expensive homes. If you're not a fan of the big, boring box look, you can easily add in some detail to up the charm factor. And, many of these projects can be done yourself with minimal skill and money.

How To Renew Your Deck In 5 Easy Steps

Summer is here, which means you need to take a hard look at your deck. Given winter's inclement conditions, there's a good chance your deck is in need of some attention. Here are some quick and easy steps for getting it in shape:

Understanding Hard Water (and How to Solve It)

Do you have hard water? If you notice spots and films on glasses that come straight from the dishwasher, or you can't seem to work up a good lather when washing your hands, it's a good bet that you do.

The Top-Three Considerations When Starting a Home-Based Business

If you’re considering starting a home-based business, you're in good company. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration, more than half of all businesses are run out of the owner’s home.

7 Rules for Choosing The Right Area Rug

You just moved into your new home. You've purchased the perfect furniture and accessories. You even found the perfect area rug to add to your hardwood floors, but you're totally stumped on which size to buy.

Best New Security Tips To Keep Your Home Safe While You're On Vacation

Nothing kills your vacation buzz like getting a call from the police back home letting you know your home has been burglarized. Basic home security tips are great, but safety measures are continually evolving, with new and more refined ways to keep you and your home safe.

10 Key Problems to Look Out For and Fix in Your Home

Ignore some of these signs and you may end up with major issues. We tell you which are normal and which are cause for concern

How To Score A Deal On Home Appliances

Who doesn't dream of a kitchen full of shiny, new appliances. Raise your hand if you want a new refrigerator, dishwasher, oven, microwave - and, hey, let's throw in a washer and dryer, too - but don't want to pay top dollar for them. The expense is definitely a bummer when it comes to buying new, but you don't have to go broke to get what you want. Use a few tips and tricks to get a great deal.

New Kitchen Cabinetry: Make Your Investment A Smart One

At an average of $50,000, a kitchen remodel is a major undertaking. A good return on that investment means different things to different people. You may be considering resale value, your bank balance at the moment, the elements of your dream kitchen-or all of the above. Whatever the case, kitchen cabinets are a key component of every remodel.

Inspired Ways To Create A Guest Space When You Don't Have A Guest Room

Not all of us are blessed with enough bedrooms to accommodate every member of the family plus a home office and a man cave and a theater room and a guest space. And, it's that last one that often ends up as a challenge when friends and family come to visit and you either have to break out the blow-up bed or give up your room and hunker down with the kids. You don't need to add on or buy a new home to provide a comfortable space for guests. These smart solutions will help you create a great space for guests with minimal effort.

See More Articles