Repair or Replace? How to Decide When an Appliance Breaks

When a major appliance breaks down, the repair-or-replace decision can feel overwhelming. A few practical guidelines can make the choice a lot more straightforward.

The 50% Rule

A commonly used guideline: if the repair cost is less than 50% of the cost of a comparable new appliance, repair is usually the better value, especially if the appliance is under 8 years old. Above that threshold, replacement often makes more financial sense.

Consider the Appliance's Age

• Refrigerators: typically last 10-15 years. Repairs make sense for most issues under the 10-year mark.
• Washers and dryers: typically last 10-13 years. A major repair on a machine past 10 years is worth weighing against replacement.
• Dishwashers: typically last 9-12 years. Given their relatively lower replacement cost, repair is often still worthwhile even later in their lifespan.
• Ranges and ovens: typically last 13-17 years, among the longest-lived major appliances. Most issues are worth repairing.

Factor In Repair History

One repair is rarely a sign to replace. But if an appliance has needed multiple separate repairs within a year or two, that pattern is worth considering as a factor, even if each individual repair was affordable.

Think About Efficiency Gains

Older appliances, especially refrigerators and washers, are often significantly less energy and water efficient than current models. For an appliance already near the end of its expected lifespan, the energy savings from a new model can offset some of the replacement cost over time.

Don't Overlook the Inconvenience Factor

A refrigerator failure is more urgent than a garbage disposal issue, simply because of food spoilage risk. Time-sensitive appliances sometimes tip the decision toward a faster repair, even if replacement would technically make more long-term financial sense.

We'll give you an honest assessment, including whether a repair makes sense given the appliance's age and condition, before you decide anything.