Should You Repair or Replace Your Faulty Appliance?

Is one of your home appliances on the fritz? It can be difficult to determine whether you should repair or replace the appliance. Fortunately, there are some general guidelines to help you decide which option is right for you. Here’s what to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace an appliance.

Repair vs Replace Appliances

How much will it cost?

Perhaps the most important factor to consider is the price of replacements parts vs. the price of a brand new appliance. As a rule of thumb, the cost of repair should not be more than 50% of the cost of buying new. If repair costs exceed 50%, you likely should replace rather than repair. If your appliance is nearing the end of its lifespan and likely to break soon, repairing it could be a waste of money.

Is your appliance still under warranty?

If your appliance is still under warranty, repairing it may be the most economical option. Although finding and calling a factory-authorized repair shop may be a hassle, chances are that your household appliance will get fixed in accordance with the warranty, which will save you money. As part of our service to our customers, iFiX offers a 1-year warranty on parts installed and labor repairs.

How old is your appliance?

The lifespan of appliances varies depending on how nicely they are used and how they are maintained. If your appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan, it’s wise to replace. Plus, it may be difficult to find the correct replacement part for older models. Here’s the average lifespan of common major household appliances:

Appliance	Average Lifespan (Years)
Compactor	20
Dishwasher	15
Disposal	12
Dryer	20
Exhaust Fan	20
Freezer	15
Microwave	15
Range, Electric	25
Range, Gas	25
Refrigerator	15
Washer	20

Replacing your outdated appliance with a new water-saving and energy-efficient model will help you save money in the long run. Also, you may receive tax credits for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance. However, don’t replace an appliance just for the sake of energy savings. It is not likely to have the energy savings pay for the cost of the new appliance.

Is the appliance really broken?

Before buying a new appliance or calling the manufacturer, be sure to check the unit’s instruction manual for troubleshooting guidelines. The problem could be a short in the plug, a tripped circuit breaker, clogged vents or filters, or an uneven floor.

Are there hidden costs when replacing old appliances?

In addition to paying for the cost of the machine itself, be prepared to pay for hidden costs, such as removal, installation, cabinet redesigns, disposal, and taxes.

Need an Appliance Repaired? Call iFiX, LLC Today!

When it comes down to it, consider age, cost, and energy efficiency when determining whether you should repair or replace your appliance. If you’re still not sure whether a repair or replacement is a better option, a reputable technician, like iFiX, can make an expert recommendation. Give us a call today, and one of our licensed repair technicians will be sent to your home within 24hrs in most cases. You can always count on us to get the job done right, no matter how complicated the problem may be.