7 Tips to Save Time and Money on Appliance Repair and Replacement

Household appliances—they don’t make them like they used to. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, thanks to more efficient, optimized technology. However, appliance repair can be costly. We help you decide whether your next steps should be appliance repair or replacement with new appliances altogether.

Before you scour YouTube for a DIY fix or replacement recommendations, consider these questions.

Did you troubleshoot?

Clogged vents or filters and power issues are common culprits. Check your manual or visit the manufacturer’s site for more information. (Jot down your model and serial number before you start searching online.)

Is the appliance under warranty?

Replace the device if your home appliance warranty will pay for it, says Constantin Geambasu, owner of Water Rehab in Phoenix. “If they will only repair it, have it repaired. A warranty prevents you from spending more money, so use it.”

Have you practiced routine maintenance?

With maintenance and frequent inspections, you can spot a small problem before it becomes costly.

So, if you’ve neglected your water heater for seven years, it’s not worth fixing, Geambasu says.

How old is the unit, and what does a new on cost?

Moniqueca Sims, owner of SGG Appliance Academy in Atlanta, says that if an appliance isn't that old, a repair might cost less than a replacement.

However, reconsider if the appliance repair is more than half the replacement cost. Even so, if the unit is old, it will experience wear and tear; minor repairs can add up.

While longevity depends on the appliance and how often it’s in use, here’s a general rule of thumb from the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.

• Electric range: 13 – 15 years
• Gas range: 15 – 17 years
• Refrigerator: 9 – 13 years
• Dryer: 13 years
• Washing machine: 5 – 15 years

“Most newer models have a lifespan of eight to 10 years,” Sims explains. “If yours is at the end of this range, replacement may be the better option.” Moreover, new models may have lower maintenance costs and better warranties.

Is the unit an energy hog?

After a repair, household appliances might work just fine. However, they may run more frequently than a new model and consume significant energy, Sims says. A new appliance might benefit your utility bill.

Online energy calculators can compare a current model’s energy usage with a new one.

Is the appliance repair or replacement cost accurate?

Get at least 3 quotes. Or, shop around for new appliances and ask if the price covers installation and removal fees.

How important is the appliance?

Depending on your budget, you can live without a dishwasher, although washing dishes is a drag. An ice maker isn’t imperative if you have trays. But, a fridge is another matter.

Consumer Reports has an interactive web tool that factors the product cost, depreciation rates and survey data to help you decide whether to repair or replace. Categories include dishwasher, refrigerator, range, cooktop, wall oven, over-the-range microwave, washing machine and dryer.