Repair or Replace? How to Decide on a Broken Appliance
A practical way to decide whether to repair or replace a refrigerator, washer, dryer, dishwasher or range, with typical lifespans and the 50 percent rule.
When an appliance breaks, the first question is usually whether it is worth fixing. There is no single answer, but three things settle most cases: the age of the appliance, the price of the repair, and what a comparable new one would cost.
The 50 percent rule
A common rule of thumb: if the repair costs more than half the price of a comparable new appliance, and the appliance is past the middle of its expected life, replacing it usually makes more sense. If it is younger, or the repair is well under half, repair usually wins.
Typical lifespans
These are rough ranges. Use and maintenance change them a lot.
- Refrigerator: about 10 to 15 years
- Range or oven: about 13 to 15 years
- Washer and dryer: about 10 to 13 years
- Dishwasher: about 9 to 12 years
- High-end built-ins such as Sub-Zero, Wolf, Thermador and Miele are designed for longer service and are often worth repairing well past these ranges
When repair makes sense
- The appliance is in its first half of life
- It is a built-in or high-end model where replacement means cabinetry or installation work
- The failed part is a common wear item such as a pump, fan, igniter, gasket or element
- Everything else about the appliance still works well
When replacement makes sense
- The sealed system of an older refrigerator has failed
- There is major rust or a cracked tub
- The appliance has needed several repairs in a short time
- Parts are discontinued
Get the facts first
A diagnosis tells you exactly what failed and what it costs to fix. At Mr Fix Indy the technician gives you the repair price before any work starts, and you decide. There is no charge for the service call with a completed repair.
Need a technician? $115 service call, free when we complete the repair. Open daily 8am–8pm.