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Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!If you have a small, funky fridge, chances are you’re curious to know how long do mini fridges last, We’ll cover more of this in this comprehensive review as we dive into the key facts you need to know if you’re planning to buy a mini fridge and what you can do to extend its lifespan. Are.
Whether you are looking to buy a mini fridge or already have one and are wondering if it is on its last leg, this article is for you!
How long do mini fridges last?
The average life of a standard mini fridge is around 10 years. More specifically, mini fridges will last for a minimum of 6 years and a maximum of 14 years. Of course, where you end up on this spectrum will vary depending on the efficiency of the fridge compressor and the quality of the materials used.
It all depends on the brand, size and type of mini fridge you buy. Also, it matters how you use and maintain it during its lifetime. The lifespan of your mini fridge will vary greatly depending on all of these factors.
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What is a mini fridge?
A mini fridge is a small compact refrigerator typically used in one-person apartment units or as an additional fridge in a family home. These types of fridges are great for storing things like drinks and snacks. Furthermore, the compact nature of this type of refrigerator makes it highly convenient to be placed anywhere in your home.
Mini fridges work just like a regular size fridge but are much easier to move around.
The other important feature of mini fridges is that they cool drinks and foods much faster than full-size refrigerators due to their smaller, more intimate size. The Mini Fridge House is a great option for hosting parties and other celebrations.
As you’d expect, mini-fridges are also much more affordable than their full-size counterparts. This makes them an excellent investment for families on a budget, college kids’ dorm rooms, or one-person units.
Connected: How long does it take for the refrigerator to cool down?
Signs Your Mini Fridge Is Failing
Since the lifespan of a mini fridge can vary greatly, it is essential to be aware of the warning signs that indicate it is on the verge of failure.
One major sign is excessive condensation inside the fridge. This can be caused by a damaged gasket seal that prevents the fridge from cooling properly.
Another sign is an overheating motor, which can be felt as heat on the sides or back of the fridge. For example, a failed evaporator fan motor can cause this.
Conversely, if the interior of the fridge gets too cold, it can result in tiny snowflakes. This is often a sign that the thermostat is not working properly. Additionally, water on the floor near the fridge can result from condensation and damp failure, indicating a compressor malfunctioning correctly.
It is important to note that these signs of failure often occur in conjunction with each other. For example, an overheating motor can cause excessive condensation, resulting in wet floors and spoiled food. If you spot any of these warning signs, there are likely other problems at play, and it’s time to consider buying a new mini fridge.
How to extend the life of your mini fridge
Simple Maintenance Tips
Luckily, there are several ways you can extend the life of your mini fridge. Many can be done on your own, while others can be done through a professional appliance technician. Proper maintenance of your mini fridge will do wonders for its longevity, and it can be as simple as adjusting the temperature settings to suit the current climate.
For example, you should keep the cooling settings on low during cold winters and on high during hot summers. Another simple fix you can implement is making sure your fridge is level. That is, it is not tilted to one side or the other.
This can be important in making sure the door is properly closed, and the motor is not working overtime. Otherwise, the mini fridge overheats. That’s why it is necessary to keep the motor cool. You should keep the mini refrigerator away from direct contact with the walls so that they have enough space and air circulation to function optimally (1).
On that note, it also helps to keep your fridge always stocked with items. Too much free space in the fridge will require the motor to work harder to keep the whole thing cool.
At the very least, you should be storing beverages like bottles of water and soda (or anything else with a long shelf life) in the mini-bar fridge. This is so that the motor and condenser fan do not have to work too hard.
In addition, cold objects can keep each other cool through contact and their cool aura, once again taking some of the pressure off the condenser fan motor.
Advanced Maintenance Tips
Another simple way to extend the lifespan of your fridge is to clean the coils of all the dust and debris that builds up over time. This should be done at least once a year, if not more. You should also periodically clean the extension cable and make sure that no coils are clogged (2).
You might also consider removing the extension cord. That is, using only the mini fridge’s primary cable and not including other vulnerable cables that could overheat and melt. Then, diving even deeper into the mechanics of your mini fridge, you can try cleaning the compressor and condenser fan motor and coils.
This can help your mini fridge last longer while improving its overall performance and average cooling time. In some situations, you can opt for professional help. However, this can result in a repair cost equal to or more than the cost of a new mini fridge, depending on the severity of the problem.
Why would you want to get a new mini fridge?
Regardless of the issues you may have with your mini fridge, there are many reasons why you should consider purchasing a new mini fridge. Suppose your mini fridge is more than 10 years old. In that case, there’s a good chance that modern technology has evolved to make mini and compact fridges more energy efficient, saving you money on electricity bills.
There are more varieties and styles of mini fridges on the market now, some of which are even more compact and come with an interior light and reversible door.
Nowadays many cheap models of mini fridge are also available. In addition, most fridges come with a sealed system that ensures the door is closed and the contents of the fridge are in an airtight cool environment.
A good mini fridge should last at least 10 years and perform exceptionally well for your cooling needs. So, don’t settle for poor cooling and keep your food cold by buying the best mini fridge you can find (within your budget, of course).
Final Thoughts on Mini Fridges
On a final note, owning a mini fridge can be one of the most joyous home appliances you can have in your home. The sheer convenience of compact refrigerators is unmatched. From house parties to a minimalist lifestyle, mini fridges have plenty of uses. Plus, your fun-sized refrigerator can last more than a decade with regular maintenance.
As you’ll find, cooling times vary greatly with mini fridges, compared to standard fridges. You can enjoy a more energy-efficient way of keeping those drinks and snacks cold.
How Long Do Mini Fridges Last Frequently Asked Questions
How do you know your fridge is dying?
Some of the clearest signs that your fridge is dying are related to its temperature. That is, your fridge may overheat and create excess moisture or the temperature settings may not be working, and therefore you may experience icebergs even though they are on the lowest setting.
Other signs that your fridge is on its last legs include rattling noises and a rattling or buzzing sound that indicates the motor is working too hard to produce cool air.
Do mini fridges require maintenance?
Mini fridges require regular maintenance to enhance their performance and maintain their lifespan of around 10 years of operational use. Maintenance tasks can be as small as properly leveling the fridge to more complex fixes. Some complicated issues include cleaning the evaporator coil or removing an intermediary extension cable from the equation.
Can a mini fridge run 24/7?
Yes, just like a standard refrigerator, a mini fridge can run 24 hours a day 7 days a week without shutting down, and this is why fridges generally don’t last more than two decades. Thus, it is essential to take care of your mini fridge so that it does not overheat and break down before its time.
How long does a portable fridge last?
A portable fridge differs from a mini fridge in that it is battery operated and designed for outdoor activities such as picnics, parties and sporting events. These fridges can run for about 50 hours before the battery needs to be recharged, making them a great tool for camping trips as well.
Does the mini fridge leak when unplugged?
Yes, when you unplug your mini fridge, the excess ice in the freezer section will begin to melt. Water will start seeping through the doors of your fridge and onto the floor.
sources say
(1) – https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/improving-ventilation-home.html
(2) – https://www.cpsc.gov/Business–Manufacturing/Business-Education/Business-Guidance/Household-Electrical-Products/Extension-Cords
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