Repair or Replace? A Practical Guide for Your Aging Appliances
When a major home appliance breaks down, you’re faced with a tough decision: should you pay for a repair or invest in a new model? The answer isn’t always clear, and it depends on several factors, including cost, age, and efficiency.
Before you make a choice, use this practical guide to help you decide whether to repair or replace.
1. Use the 50% Rule
A good rule of thumb is the “50% rule.” If your appliance is more than halfway through its average lifespan and the cost of a repair is more than 50% of the cost of a new, comparable model, it’s generally better to replace it. For example, if a 7-year-old dishwasher (average lifespan: 9-10 years) needs a $400 repair and a new one costs $700, replacement is likely the smarter financial move.
2. Consider the Age and Condition
Every appliance has an expected lifespan. Here are some general estimates:
- Refrigerators: 10-13 years
- Washing Machines: 10-12 years
- Dryers: 10-13 years
- Dishwashers: 9-10 years
- Ovens/Ranges: 13-15 years
- HVAC Systems: 15-20 years
If your appliance is nearing the end of its expected life, a major repair might just be the first of many. However, if a relatively young appliance has a one-time failure, a repair is almost always the better option.
3. Factor in Energy Efficiency
Today’s appliances are significantly more energy-efficient than models from a decade ago. An old, inefficient refrigerator or washing machine could be costing you hundreds of dollars a year in utility bills. A new ENERGY STAR-certified model might have a higher upfront cost, but the long-term savings on your energy bills can help offset the price.
4. Get a Professional Diagnosis and Quote
You can’t make an informed decision without knowing exactly what’s wrong and how much it will cost to fix. A professional technician can diagnose the root cause of the problem and provide a clear, upfront quote for the repair. This is the most critical piece of information you need. Sometimes, what seems like a catastrophic failure is actually a simple, inexpensive fix.
Make the Right Choice with Appliance Surgeon
Making the repair-or-replace decision can be stressful. The team at Appliance Surgeon is here to help. Our licensed technicians provide a thorough diagnostic analysis and a transparent, fixed-price quote for any repair. We’ll give you our honest, expert advice so you can make the best financial decision for your home.
If you’re facing an appliance breakdown in Washington D.C. or Northern Virginia, schedule a diagnostic visit with Appliance Surgeon today.
