6 Refrigerator Repair Questions to Ask About Servicing a Fridge, Freezer, or Ice Maker

Fridges, freezers, and ice makers only contain a few components, but they all need to work in perfect harmony, or the whole system starts failing. When working with a professional fridge or freezer repair service, be prepared to discuss these important refrigerator repair questions.

1. What appliance needs to be repaired?

Fridges, freezers, and ice makers all present problems in different ways. Your fridge would need to be repaired if it isn’t cold anymore. It’s the same with the freezer, but the freezer may also leak water if everything melts (including ice buildup). Overfrosting is another sign your freezer needs to be repaired. Ice makers won’t produce ice, but they may also leak, and sometimes, you can smell the motor burning out. 

2. When do you need this project completed?

Because fridges and freezers store food and most homes only have one of each, this project requires a quick turnaround so food doesn’t spoil. Remember that both fridges and freezers are very well-insulated and designed to hold their temperature for a long time, so open them as little as possible while waiting for repair. Ice bags in the fridge can also keep it cool for a few days if your local fridge repair pro isn’t available right away. 

3. Do you need help after business hours?

If your freezer loses its chill, you can wait until the next business day (even on the weekend). If you keep your freezer shut, it should stay frozen if it is full of items or may reach fridge temperature if you need to wait a few days. Fridges are usually okay until the next day if you don’t open them. It’s better to try to wait and save money, as after-hours work is always more expensive. 

4. What is your budget?

The same pro will likely be able to handle any of these appliance issues, so you should be paying the same appliance repair rate—$50 to $150 per hour. If the job is simple and takes less than an hour, it isn’t uncommon for the pro to add a site fee or fee for the low amount, usually equal to one hour of work.  

5. Is it worth getting the fridge repaired?

This depends on your budget, but if you have a newer fridge and the repair costs less than 40% of a new fridge, freezer, or ice maker, then it’s usually worth it to repair your fridge. Older appliances or major overhauls of systems blur the lines a bit more. Talk to your pro about the best way to move forward. 

6. How can you avoid repairs in the future?

Staying on top of ice buildup in your freezer can greatly extend its lifespan. Fridges are pretty hardy, and other than regular cleaning and not adjusting the temperature often, there is not much you can do to extend their lifespan (which can be decades). Ice makers need to be used regularly to ensure the parts don’t seize in place, so try to use them at least once a week.