Repair vs. Replace? Why You Should Choose Appliance Repair Instead of Replacement

We all want our appliances to last a lifetime. No matter the appliance - a fridge, washing machine, oven, or dryer - they're all major investments in your home and lifestyle. Sadly, no appliance lasts forever, and when the inevitable breakdown hits, you're stuck debating repair vs. replacement.

While it's easier than ever to run out and buy a new appliance, that doesn't make it the right call. We're confident that repairing your appliance will almost always provide greater benefits at a lower price than replacing one will.

We'll explain why, when it comes to appliance repair vs. appliance replacements, we believe that repairs are almost always the best option.

Appliance Repair Benefits

When many people think of appliance repairs, they only think of the primary benefit — fixing a broken machine. However, there are more advantages than just restoring functionality to a malfunctioning piece of equipment. Here are a few appliance repair benefits to keep in mind:

Increased appliance lifespan – Most appliances are in good condition when they break down - minus the broken part, of course. Fixing the broken part allows the rest of the machine to operate for the full duration of its lifespan.
Greater energy efficiency – Broken or ailing appliances don't run efficiently. Repairing your machine can help reduce your electric bill.
Cost savings – Most of the time, the cost to repair vs. replace a broken appliance will be far less.
Environmental friendliness – Choosing to repair vs. replace an appliance prevents it from ending up in the landfill too early.

The Hidden Costs of Repair vs. Replacement

We all want to believe that when we buy something, that's all we'll ever pay for it. But in the case of appliances, that's rarely true. Here are some hidden costs related to appliance replacement that might cause you to reconsider your decision to repair vs. replace an appliance:

Transportation costs – While many places offer free shipping these days, large appliances are often an exception.
Installation fees – Installing a new appliance isn't always as simple as plugging it into a wall. These installation fees can add up quickly.
Home upgrades – If you live in an older home, you may need a professional to install new hookups or upgrade your wiring to support a modern appliance.
Old unit disposal – Your old appliance doesn't just disappear when you buy a new one. Most of the time, you'll have to hire someone to help you dispose of it properly.

Appliance Repair FAQs

When would you recommend replacing appliances rather than having them repaired?

Repairs are always preferred over replacements for a variety of reasons. However, there are cases in which repairs may not be possible or may only slightly prolong an inevitable breakdown. In those cases, replacement is the better option.

One instance where replacement is the better option is when the machine has experienced a catastrophic failure. For example, if your dryer catches on fire while running, it's unlikely that it can be repaired effectively, so the decision to repair vs. replace it is easy.

Replacement also makes sense when the appliance is very old. Many appliances last between 10 and 20 years, depending on the manufacturer and appliance type. If your appliance is well past 20 years of age and has been experiencing frequent issues, it's probably time for a new machine.

If my appliance breaks, is it worth it to risk the cost of inspection and diagnosis?

It's normal to worry that an appliance repairman will show up and tell you everything is fine or that they can't fix the machine. However, this doesn't happen as much as you might think. If you can’t decide whether to repair vs. replace your appliance, we can help you make the right decision.

Many appliance repair services, including Mr. Appliance^®, offer free inspections if you repair the appliance, which can take the trepidation out of calling for repairs. If an inspection costs money, it's best to consider it a maintenance cost or like going to the doctor and being told you're in good health.

Call Mr. Appliance for Reliable Appliance Repair Service

If your appliance no longer works well or has broken down entirely, it's always a good idea to get it checked out before buying a replacement. The helpful appliance repair services from Mr. Appliance can restore your home's efficiency and save you money. Don't let appliance issues get worse. Contact your local Mr. Appliance today!