There is no exact service life for every refrigerator. Design, build quality, ambient temperature, maintenance, use, and failure type all matter; age is useful context, but repair-versus-replace decisions should also consider repair cost, efficiency, and the condition of the sealed refrigeration system.
Use age as context, not an expiration date
A well-maintained appliance can outlast an average while another may fail earlier. Record the model and approximate age and compare that with warranty, repair history, and parts availability instead of replacing it solely because it has reached a certain birthday.
Minor repairs are different from sealed-system failures
A door gasket, accessible fan, or sensor can justify repair on an otherwise healthy appliance. A compressor, refrigerant leak, or several expensive failures change the economics and require qualified service.
Compare energy use and actual performance
An older refrigerator that runs constantly, cannot hold 40°F (4°C), or uses far more energy than an efficient replacement may be worth replacing even if it still cools. First rule out dirty gaskets, blocked ventilation, and dusty accessible coils.
Protect food while deciding
If temperature rises above the safe range, move perishable food to another refrigerator or suitable ice storage and use time-and-temperature rules. Do not keep food at risk while waiting to see whether an intermittent fault fixes itself.
Sources
- U.S. Department of Energy — Energy Saver — Practical information on home heating, cooling, efficiency, and energy maintenance.