Compensating tenant for broken refrigerator

[Manas M.]

Hi BP Folks,

One of my unit is rented out to a tenant with a refrigerator. Recently, the refrigerator broke down and we got it fixed in about 10 days (the earliest we could get a technician to the house). Now, the tenant is asking for almost $1500 in compensation for the loss of food and groceries and are holding up the rent for this month. Note that this amount is even higher than the monthly rent! Also, not to mention that's its a regular size appliance which can't possibly hold this much of food.

I know I am obligated to compensate for their loss but as a goodwill, I still wanted to do something about it (in addition to getting the appliance repaired). However, this unreasonable ask has completely changed my mindset about the whole topic. 

Wondering what other experience folks have to say about this. I do realize that she may be just looking for reasons to get out of the lease early (which might be a better option over a disgruntled tenant).