Antique Fridge Repair?
HELP! I bought a beautiful antique 1950’s fridge and I am having the hardest time finding someone who can come fix it. Looking for a repairman who cares about antiques and would be willing to spend time taking a look.
HELP! I bought a beautiful antique 1950’s fridge and I am having the hardest time finding someone who can come fix it. Looking for a repairman who cares about antiques and would be willing to spend time taking a look.
There’s an appliance repair shop named Luis Appliance with several locations up and down Broadway — one near the Halsey stop, one near Dekalb. We’ve used them several times. The owner who makes repairs is in his 70s or 80s so should know how to repair a 1950s fridge. He is Spanish speaking. He was going to take a whack at my 1930s stove, but I decided it was too far gone.
I did this post a few years ago. Although the antique fridge places I link to are not local, they may have some solutions.
http://reclaimedhome.com/2007/09/26/vintage-fridges/
A neighborhood repair place can do it (as Bob M. says). Oliva’s, which is on Bedford and South 5th in Williamsburg can probably do it, but I doubt you have to look that far. If that doesn’t work ask Paul at Moon River Chattel (Grand Street, Williamsburg) – they don’t do repairs, but I think he knows people who do vintage appliances.
Bob Marvin has good advice. My understanding was that these old fridges were simpler mechanically, so should be repairable, but I’m no expert. FWIW, non-frost-free units are more energy efficient than modern fridges if in good working order (e.g. doors seal properly, etc.). Good luck, a vintage fridge really makes a vintage-style kitchen.
We don’t know that the gas has leaked out (and I don’t think a ’50s refrigerator uses ammonia).
I’d suggest that the OP call a few appliance repair services and NOT use the word “antique” when describing the fridge.
Yes, it is legally possible. You can switch out the old ammonia system (if there is one) for a new one. Not sure who does conversions though. Google vintage appliances online. Many are far away. I think I recall one in Massachusetts.
It may be difficult to get a repair person. There are many DIY clubs that may be of help. Do a search. In my experience you’re better off buying something that has been restored by a pro. There are reproduction available too.
not sure if this is legally possible. for example the old fridge might use Ozone depleting type of freon. And you will not be able to legally buy it.