So you just inherited an old washer and dryer from your late, great uncle Horace, and though you barely knew him (“Did I have a great uncle named Horace?”), you really needed these appliances, so you humbly accepted. You first refrain from using them, but one day, you begin to warm up to their dented looks. Then, right in the middle of a load of whites, both machines stop working, making your uncle’s gift seem more like a curse. Not knowing how old these appliances are, or if uncle Horace purchased an extended warranty, what will you do? Will you do your best to maintain your uncle’s legacy? Or will you risk invoking his wrath from beyond the grave by replacing them?
Worry not, the guidelines in this article will help you decide whether repairing your appliance is the best option, or if replacing it with a newer, more efficient model is better for you, your home and your wallet (Sorry, uncle Horace!)
Is It Really Busted?
First, it’s important to check if your appliance is actually at fault, or if there’s something else that’s causing the problem. Although this step seems like a no-brainer, it’s common for people to replace their appliances without first checking if other sources are the problem. See if the appliance is plugged in, if the outlet is damaged, or if the circuit breaker tripped and is in need of resetting. If the appliance is a refrigerator, a washer or a dryer, check if their filters or vents are clogged with dirt, dust or lint. If you have questions, check the appliance instruction manual, since it usually has a section on the most common problems and their solutions. There are also online sources, like repairclinic.com, that have troubleshooting instructions for appliances.
What’s Its Age Again?
It’s important to know how old the appliance is, since this information can tell you if the appliance is still covered by a warranty and if it has passed the threshold of its life expectancy. Appliances have an average life expectancy that varies per unit, and that indicates when you can expect it to begin showing wear symptoms. Note that these expectancies are hypothetical, and that appliances can last longer or break earlier depending on the brand purchased and how well you’ve maintained them through the years. When it comes to warranties, appliances usually have a three-month to one-year manufacturer warranty, and retailers usually offer extended warranties that vary in time and price, with 5 years being one of the highest. If your appliance is less than a year old and it breaks down, or if it’s older and has an extended warranty, using its warranty will be the best option. However, if the device is not covered by a warranty and is in the double digits of its life expectancy, replacing it might be preferable.
Can You Do It Yourself?
Another thing to consider is whether or not you can fix the problem yourself. There are certain common problems, such as refrigerator torn door seals, faulty light bulbs, valve replacing, clogged drains, and dryer sensor issues, that can be fixed with little to no cost, and without the help of a professional. If you think you are up to the challenge, there are helpful online sources, such as doityourself.com and acmehowto.com that have step-by-step guides on how to fix these problems. However, if the problem is more complex, such as frost buildup and leaking gas valves, do not attempt to fix the problem yourself and seek help from certified professionals. It’s also important to note that fixing certain things yourself might void the appliance warranty, so if the device is still covered, it would be best to use your warranty to fix the issue. Check the warranty fine print or consult the warranty provider before taking matters into your own hands.
Damage Report!
Get a repair estimate from a company of your preference, since an expensive bill might indicate that a replacement is in order. A good rule of thumb is that if the cost of repair is more than 50% of the price of a newer appliance model, and if the appliance is through more than 50% of its expected lifespan, then you should replace rather than repair. Although most repairs won’t reach the 50% mark, if the cost reaches that point, or if the appliance keeps breaking down after being repaired, replacing it would be the best course of action.
Features and Efficiency
Keep in mind the price, features and energy efficiency of a new appliance when deciding to fix or replace your older one. As with all things new, newer models can be fancier and more energy efficient than previous ones. But convenience can also mean a more expensive purchase, which might make repairing your appliance a more attractive option. If you decide to replace your appliance with energy efficiency in mind, note that spending thousands on a new appliance just to save hundreds on your energy bill might not be the most economic choice. Using the 50% rule, if your appliance is still in its life expectancy average and has given you little to no problems, choosing to repair might be the best option.
Take Good Care of Your Appliances
In the end, whether you choose to repair or replace your faulty appliance, remember that it’s important for you to adopt good maintenance practices, since this will extend the life of your appliances and prevent early malfunctions. Never overload your washer or dryer, and clean the condenser coils of your refrigerator twice a year. Also, inspect and clean the filters of your dishwasher regularly, and clean the insides of your washing machines monthly. If you do these things, your appliances and your wallet will thank you in the long run.
Ready for Action
If you’re thinking that replacing your appliance might the best step for your home, check our Top Ten Appliance Repair Providers to choose which provider is best for you.