Refrigerator

A refrigerator is essentially a cooling system that removes heat from an insulated compartment, keeping your food fresh and safe. From routine maintenance like cleaning coils and replacing water filters to troubleshooting temperature issues or strange noises, there's a lot that goes into keeping this kitchen workhorse running smoothly. Angi helps you find the right pro and resources for any refrigerator repair or installation need.

Related to Refrigerator Service

Refrigerator Service Articles and Advice
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Apr 10, 2026
Should You Repair or Replace a Broken Refrigerator?
Should you repair or replace your refrigerator if you notice a problem? There are several factors to consider when deciding your next move.
Paige Bennett  •  Apr 10, 2026
How to Change a Fridge Water Filter: A Complete Guide
Noticing an odd taste in your water or getting an alert that your filter is old? Use this guide on how to change a fridge water filter to fix the issue.
Scott Dylan Westerlund  •  Apr 10, 2026
What Temperature Should a Refrigerator Be?
Is your refrigerator temperature cold enough to keep your food from spoiling? This guide explains the ideal temperature and how to maintain it.
Kelly Weimert  •  Apr 10, 2026
Everything You Need to Know About the Different Parts of a Refrigerator
Refrigerators comprise many different parts. Understanding what they are and how they function will help you maintain it and troubleshoot problems.
Rachel Presser  •  Apr 10, 2026
Are Refrigerator Water Filters Good for Drinking and Cooking?
Are refrigerator water filters good at keeping germs out of fridge water? Explore the pros and cons of refrigerator filters and whether you should get one.
Jenna Jonaitis  •  Apr 10, 2026
How Many Amps Does a Fridge Use? A Look at Full and Small Sizes
Knowing how many amps your fridge uses helps monitor your electric bill and ensures you use the proper circuit. Learn how many amps your fridge uses.
C.E. Larusso  •  Apr 10, 2026
11 Signs Your Refrigerator is Dying and Potential Solutions
Is food going bad too quickly? Is your refrigerator making strange noises? This guide will help you determine whether it’s time for a repair technician or a new refrigerator.
C.E. Larusso  •  Apr 8, 2026
7 Reasons Why Your Fridge Is Leaking Brown Liquid
Your fridge might leak brown liquid due to problems like food spillage, dirty coils, and water line damage. Learn how to troubleshoot the issue with this simple guide.
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Common Refrigerator Service Questions

It is usually more affordable to repair a fridge rather than replace it. Fridge repairs average around $250, while installing a new fridge will likely cost $1,500 to $4,000. However, you should consider the cost of the specific repair required and the age of your fridge when deciding to repair or replace it. It’s usually less expensive to carry out fridge repairs if your appliance is under 10 years old. After that point, more expensive repairs may not be cost-effective in the long run.

Bleach isn’t the best choice to use while cleaning a refrigerator. Food absorbs odors, and bleach is known for its lingering smell, which can then lead to your fresh foods tasting off. Most people don’t safely dilute bleach, either. If you’re concerned about bacteria or mold from contaminated food, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using a bleach solution of 1 tablespoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water for sanitizing. Be sure to let the fridge air out for an hour or more afterward to let the fumes dissipate.

While beautiful, stainless steel is notoriously thin and more vulnerable to denting than other finishes. One way to avoid the potential for denting is to purchase a high-end appliance made with thicker stainless steel.

If you move your fridge upright, you can turn it on right away without letting it settle. If the fridge was laying down during transport, check its manual to find out how long you should let it settle before turning it on again. Usually, it’s safest to wait about 24 hours. If you don’t allow the refrigerant and compressor oil to settle, you may end up needing refrigerator repair.

You don’t need to unplug your refrigerator. As long as it has a proper seal, it might still maintain a safe temperature to temporarily store food compared to room temperature. Unplug the fridge if you notice a heavy frost build-up that’s preventing cold air from entering it or if you believe you need to reset the cooling unit.