Appliance breakdown moments aren’t fun. Whether that’s your fridge, oven or washing machine, when a breakdown happens our home becomes a chaos. And it gets worse if the broken appliance was fixed a while back and it didn’t last for too long. In such moments we all ask ourselves: “Is it better to repair or replace an appliance?”.
The answer, unfortunately, isn’t that simple. It depends on a few key factors:
- The Age of Your Appliance: Generally, appliances have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. If your appliance is nearing the end of its natural life, replacing it might be the smarter option, especially if the repairs are extensive.
- The Cost of Repair: Get a diagnosis from a qualified company of appliance repair in Charlotte NC. Compare that cost to the price of a new appliance. If the repairs are close to the cost of replacement, consider a new model.
- The Severity of the Issue: Minor issues like a faulty door switch or a clogged drain are often easily repairable. Major malfunctions involving the core components might be a sign it’s time to say goodbye.
- Energy Efficiency: Newer appliances are often much more energy-efficient than older models. Replacing a fridge that’s chugging away like a power plant can save you money on your utility bills in the long run.
- Environmental Impact: Repairing your appliance extends its lifespan and keeps it out of landfills. If the repair is feasible and cost-effective, it’s the more eco-friendly option.
Here are some additional tips to help you decide
- Do some research: Look up the average lifespan of your specific appliance model.
- Get quotes from multiple repair companies: This will give you a better idea of the average repair cost.
- Consider the warranty: If your appliance is still under warranty, repairs might be covered by the manufacturer.
Ultimately, there is no cookie-cutter answer in figuring out when to replace or repair a home appliance. Talk with your trusted local home appliance repair in Charlotte NC, and together, you can decide the best pathway for your home appliances. Sometimes your appliances can brake due to your old electrical systems. Talking to an electrician in this case would be another great idea.
Are There Any Hidden Costs to Replacing a Home Appliance?
Finally, consider any hidden costs to replacing your home appliance. The final cost of replacing a home appliance is much more than just the machine itself. Consider installation fees and transportation costs.
Also, you’ll want to evaluate your home’s compatibility with a new appliance. If you don’t have the correct hookups, electrical wiring, circuit breakers, or physical space for a new appliance, then that will add to the price of replacing your home appliance.
Do You Need a More Energy-Efficient Home Appliance?
Once you’ve calculated the repair costs, new appliance prices, and age of your appliance, you need to factor in the energy expenses. If your current home appliance utilizes more energy than a new one, it could be worth the upgrade. For example, studies show that a new refrigerator uses approximately half the power of a 20-year-old fridge.
However, calculate this expense carefully and with the help of a trusted professional appliance servicer. It may not be wise to spend thousands of dollars only to save a couple hundred dollars on your energy bill. With the expertise of an appliance servicer, you can determine what’s best for your Charlotte home appliance.