Last updated: 2026-05-01
Refrigerator Repair Guide
Refrigerators are the most expensive appliance to replace but often the cheapest to fix. A $15 start relay or $30 defrost thermostat can save a $2,000 replacement.
Avg Lifespan
12-17 years
Replace Cost
$800-2,500
Common Fixes
4 problems
Common Problems
Not Cooling
Fridge is warm, freezer is thawing, or both compartments are room temperature
Cause: Failed start relay on compressor or dirty condenser coils
Parts from
$15
Leaking Water on Floor
Puddle of water under or in front of the refrigerator
Cause: Clogged defrost drain tube
Parts from
$8
Noisy or Clicking Compressor
Clicking sound every few minutes, or loud humming from the back
Cause: Failed start relay or capacitor trying to start the compressor
Parts from
$22
Ice Maker Not Making Ice
Ice maker produces no ice or very small cubes
Cause: Frozen fill tube or failed ice maker module
Parts from
$55
Is It Worth Fixing?
A refrigerator replacement costs $800-2,500. Most common repairs cost $10-50 in parts. If your unit is less than 12-17 years old, repairing it is almost always the better financial decision. Even if you're not comfortable with DIY repairs, a service call ($100-200) plus parts is still cheaper than replacing the entire unit.
When to replace: If the unit is past its expected lifespan, has had multiple failures, or the compressor/motor needs replacing (these are expensive components that signal end-of-life).