Your refrigerator operates when you're at home, sleeping or away at work. A good refrigerator can last for years, but at some point all refrigerators begin to break down. Many factors go into deciding whether to repair or replace. Most refrigerators can last 10 to 20 years. Consider repair if it is less than 8 years old. If the refrigerator is more than 15 years old, consider replacing it. If the fridge is between eight and 15 years old, you must take other factors into consideration such as type of refrigerator and efficiency.