Repair or Replace? How to Decide on a Failing Appliance
When an appliance breaks down, the first question is always the same: is it worth fixing, or should I just replace it? Here’s the framework our technicians use to give honest advice.
The 50% rule
A simple starting point: if the repair costs more than half the price of a comparable new unit, lean toward replacement. If it’s less — and the appliance isn’t near the end of its expected life — repair is usually the smart, cheaper, and greener choice.
Typical appliance lifespans
- Refrigerators: 10–13 years
- Washers & dryers: 10–13 years
- Dishwashers: 9–12 years
- Ranges & ovens: 13–15 years
- Microwaves: 7–10 years
If your appliance is well within its lifespan, a repair often buys you many more years.
Factor in the brand and parts
Premium and built-in appliances (think high-end refrigerators or wall ovens) are expensive to replace and usually worth repairing. Budget countertop units are sometimes cheaper to swap out.
Our technicians will always tell you when a repair isn’t worth it. An honest “replace it” is part of the job.
Energy savings matter too
A 15-year-old refrigerator can use far more electricity than a modern one. If yours is aging and inefficient, replacement may pay for itself over time.
Get a straight answer
Not sure where your appliance lands? Book a diagnosis and our certified technician will give you an upfront repair quote and an honest repair-or-replace recommendation — no pressure.
