When a major appliance breaks down in your home (like your washer or dryer, dishwasher, or oven), there are suddenly a lot of time-sensitive decisions to be made. Choosing between repairing or replacing the unit involves making a financially sound decision that reflects your household priorities and long-term needs. But it’s not always an easy decision! Let’s look over a few factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your appliance.
When Repair Makes Sense
- Under warranty or protection plan: If your appliance is still under a standard or extended warranty—and even minor costs are covered with a low deductible—repairing is usually the better choice.
- Not near end of lifespan: Repair is often worthwhile if your appliance is under 50% of its expected lifespan and hasn’t required frequent fixes.
- Repair cost is low: A general guideline to follow is if the repair cost is less than half of buying new (and the unit isn’t ancient) a repair may make sense.
When Replacement May Be Better
- Old age and frequent issues: Appliances near or past their average lifespan can be more prone to ongoing and costly breakdowns.
- Repair cost exceeds unit value: If the repair cost is higher than the value of the unit or over 50% of the cost of a newer model, replacing may be more cost-effective.
- Outdated efficiency or features: Modern models are typically more energy-efficient and may offer rebates that offset upfront cost while reducing utility bills.
Other Smart Considerations
- Repair history and reliability: Appliances with recurring defects or performance issues may be worth replacing, even if individual repair costs were low.
- Energy usage and environmental impact: Repairing extends lifespan and reduces waste, while replacing with an Energy Star–rated model can lower utility bills and reduce carbon footprint.
- Functionality needs: If the appliance still meets your needs and operates reliably, it could be worth repairing, even if it’s nearing the end of its lifespan range. But if you’re ready for upgrades—smart features, quieter operation, etc—replacement could add more value.
A Quick Owner Checklist
- Check your appliance’s warranty or coverage plan
- Determine the age of your appliance and compare to expected lifespan
- Get estimates for repairs and compare to the cost of replacing the appliance
- Review past repairs and reliability
- Consider improvements in energy efficiency and upgrades to features
Knowing when to repair and when to replace helps you make smart decisions that save money, reduce waste, and keep your household running smoothly. Start with the basics: warranty, age, repair cost, and long‑term reliability. If you’re unsure, a trusted local appliance technician can assess your situation and help guide the choice.