JEFF CAPLAN'S MY MINUTE OF NEWS
Jeff Caplan’s Minute of News: Refrigerators don’t last as long anymore
May 8, 2024, 8:00 AM | Updated: 5:38 pm
Photo: Storyblocks
Editor’s note: This is an editorial piece. An editorial, like a news article, is based on fact but also shares opinions. The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and are not associated with our newsroom.
SALT LAKE CITY — You know that noise your fridge makes? Well if you got a new one and it doesn’t make any noises… it will. Whether it’s buzzing, gurgling, vibrating, whatever — eventually it will. And probably sooner than you think
The Wall Street Journal is pointing out that your new fridge can do almost anything. Make ice cubes. Use WIFI to put ketchup on your shopping list — and yes, ketchup belongs in the fridge. I will die on that hill.
But maybe our appliances are doing too much. The Journal talked to repair technicians. The guys who come to your home tinker behind the fridge and then charge you an eye-popping amount of money. Almost universally they say it’s true. While your mom’s fridge might have lasted 30 years — yours won’t. They’re not as durable anymore and with all the complicated circuitry and sensors, repairs are not simple. And they’re more necessary.
Who hasn’t experienced the icemaker that busted after a couple of years. Or this ridiculous statement, “I think the fridge has no WIFI.”
The repairs guys say it’s just more parts that can go bad. They don’t make ‘em like they used to so the advice from the guys who noodle around the dusty confines behind your fridge for a living is to buy the one with the fewest extra features. Less to go wrong.
Otherwise, your new fridge might cause one more noise along with the buzzing, gurgling and vibrating. Crying. Over the repair bill.
Jeff Caplan is the host of Jeff Caplan’s Afternoon News on KSL NewsRadio. Follow him on Facebook and X.
