Should I Repair or Replace My Appliance?
The question every homeowner wants to know when their appliance stops working. I’ve heard it in so many homes over the years in working with customers. “I just don’t know, should we repair it? What would you do?”
I can tell you from working in the field and face to face with customers, helping them answer this decision countless times, that there’s not a cookie-cutter answer. But I would like to explain how you can at least make a confident decision in this scenario.
Questions to Consider
The questions you ask help determine what the right choice is for you. Let’s look at replacing first.
When you're wondering about repairing or replacing your appliance, it’s good to ask yourself, "If I got a new appliance…."
How much will it cost? What about delivery and install?
Will it match my other appliances?
Will it last longer than what I have now?
How long would it be before it’s installed?
Will it fit where my current appliance is now?
Pros of Getting a New Appliance
There are pros to getting a new appliance. You can get new features that you’re interested in, a steam setting on your dryer, a wash plate instead of an agitator in your washer, or more room in your fridge. Even if you feel like you just want a fresh and new appliance. It’s up to you on what you would like to have in your home.
That said, after adding up the costs, it’s almost always more expensive to replace rather than repairing your appliance.
The 50% Repair Rule
Many online sources suggest replacing an appliance if repair costs are 50% or more of a new one. However, this is not a strict rule. New appliances can be just as prone to repairs as your old ones. You might find yourself needing fixes either way you go. The difference is the new appliance may last a year before you start needing to service it. I’m speaking from years in the field as an appliance repairman, working at a company that’s been around for 40 years.
I’m not a fan of replacing appliances just because repair costs go over a certain percentage. Especially if you like the appliance you already have. The 50% rule can help guide decisions. But it’s important to consider other factors too.
Has the appliance been properly maintained and cared for?
Is the manufacturer discontinuing major parts?
Do you need to have a specific size of appliance? Are cabinets or other things restricting the size that you can have?
What is the availability of getting a new appliance versus the time it would take to repair it?
Parts Availability
Parts usually begin to get discontinued after about 10 years. It starts with less important parts, then moves to more vital ones. Eventually, critical components like motors may also be discontinued. The number of parts dropped increases over time. This process can take many years. Even with that, I’ve been able to repair appliances that are 25+ years old because the parts I needed were still available.
An appliance older than 10 years can still serve you well if you take care of it. I’m not just saying this either. It’s not unusual for people who have 20+ year old appliances to call us to repair them.
Making Your Decision
Now, to be clear, if an appliance keeps draining your wallet with consistent repairs, then yes, please entertain the thought of getting a new appliance. However, if this is not the case, then don’t write off the idea of keeping what you have currently. Opting for a repair can a lot of times help in getting you up and running sooner than replacing.
A repair is almost always quicker and more cost effective than replacing the appliance. It removes the hassle of handling logistics for a new appliance. Plus, a good repair company offers a guarantee with their work that lasts as long as most manufacturer's warranties on new appliances.
When fixing or replacing your appliance, don't just rely on common advice you hear or find online. Think through a few questions before making a decision. There’s no bad choice. It matters more what you’re looking for. It might be about saving money, wanting new features, getting a quick result to save time, or making the best choice for the long run. Determining your goal will greatly help in the decision you make.
At Quality Appliance, we repair and service every brand of major home appliances. Our technicians are among the best trained in the industry. Feel free to contact us below if you want to discuss your situation or have any questions. Need help with a diagnosis or repair? Click the button below to request service. We provide a one-year guarantee on parts and labor for all repairs.