JL8

Buying A Used Refrigerator What To Look For Apr 2026

Marcus then moved to the interior. He checked the , ensuring they weren't cracked and moved smoothly. Replacing custom plastic bins can often cost as much as the used fridge itself. He also looked for odors . A fridge that had been sitting closed and unplugged for months could harbor deep-seated smells that no amount of baking soda could fix.

Next, he asked the seller to plug it in. "I need to hear the ," Marcus explained. After a few minutes, a low, steady hum kicked in. He listened for any clicking, buzzing, or grinding sounds that might signal a dying motor. While it ran, he reached around the back to check the coils . They were dusty, which was a good sign that the owners hadn't touched them, but he looked for any signs of leaking oil or rust, which would be an immediate dealbreaker. buying a used refrigerator what to look for

His first stop was a suburban garage where a "near-mint" stainless steel unit was listed. As he pulled up, Marcus grabbed his mental checklist. He walked into the garage and immediately looked at the . He wasn't just looking for scratches; he was looking for the door seals (gaskets) . He pulled the door open and shut it several times. "If these are cracked or brittle," he muttered to himself, "the cold air escapes and the motor works double time." He ran a finger along the rubber, checking for mold or tears. Marcus then moved to the interior

He shook the seller's hand, loaded the fridge onto his truck, and remembered the most important rule of transport: for at least four to six hours before plugging it in to allow the coolant fluids to settle. That night, as the new-to-him fridge hummed quietly in his kitchen, Marcus knew his patience had saved him hundreds of dollars. He also looked for odors