Refrigerator Repair vs Replace Calculator
Should you fix it or buy a new one?
Six honest inputs. We apply the 50% rule (USDA appliance guidance), the 10-year ENERGY STAR cutoff, and a 5-year total-cost comparison — then give you a single verdict.
The 5-year math clearly favors repair, you're under the 10-year cutoff, and the quote is well below half of replacement. Get it fixed.
Repair is significantly cheaper over 5 years.
The methodology
10-year ENERGY STAR rule (hard)
Refrigerators 10 years or older may use up to 35% more energy than newer ENERGY STAR certified models. Past the cutoff → replace, regardless of how cheap the repair is.
50% rule (USDA appliance guidance)
If a repair quote is more than half the cost of a comparable new unit, replacement is the better economic call. The verdict flips the moment the math crosses 50%.
5-year total-cost comparison
Repair cost + 5 yr of current-unit energy vs new cost + 5 yr of new-unit energy, both at your electricity rate. Whichever is lower wins — confidence is High when the gap is decisive.
Frequently asked
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If it is time to replace, explore your options.
Answer five questions to explore a starting product group, with prices where available. Verify dimensions, features and warranty terms on each product page.
Start fridge match