To replace or not to replace? (Fridge and electric use questions)

[Kbsmama]

Our fridge is probably original to the house, which was built in 1963 (yes, that makes it nearly 45 years old). The seal on the fridge door is gone on the bottom and hanging loose on the side. I looked online to see if I could find a replacement seal, and apparently, the company is no longer producing that part, and there is not another brand that would fit.

It is an apartment-sized fridge, so it is a bit harder to replace. Either we tear out some cabinets to replace it, or we find another dinky fridge.

How do I find out how much electricity it is using? I keep telling DH that it probably would be worthwhile to replace it, and he doesn't agree.

We are strapped right now, so a new fridge isn't exactly in the plans, but if it is offset by a lower electric bill, it might be justifiable. I just read that if a fridge is over 10 years old, it is likely like burning a 300-watt bulb all the time, while a new one is like a 75-watt. DH wanted to know what that is equivalent to in $$$$, but I don't know. And, I am guessing ours uses way more than that as it is essentially dumping cold air all the time.


So, thoughts?

[LatteLover]

i had read somewhere once that old fridges are far more energy efficient than new ones. that said, i don't think yours is "old enough" to fall into that category. i would turn off everything in the house except the fridge and then go watch your electric meter.