One of the major challenges of running a modern household is the constant cycle of evaluating, repairing and sometimes replacing kitchen appliances. That’s why understanding whether an appliance needs repair or replacement is important. It not only prevents potential safety hazards but also helps you manage your finances more effectively. In this blog, we’ll discuss the factors that will help you decide if your kitchen appliances need repairing or replacing.
Age of the Appliance
One important factor is the age of the appliance. Each appliance has an average lifespan beyond which its performance may start to decline, making replacement a viable consideration. Here is the average lifespan of common kitchen appliances:
- Refrigerator: A refrigerator can last anywhere between 10 and 20 years. Past this point, the cooling system might start to falter and energy efficiency can degrade significantly.
- Oven: An oven typically lasts around 10 to 15 years. If your oven starts showing signs of inconsistent heating or if the door doesn’t seal properly, it may be nearing the end of its life.
- Dishwasher: With an average lifespan of 7 to 12 years, a dishwasher can start to show its age through decreased cleaning effectiveness, rust formation or persistent water leaks.
If you’ve taken great care of your appliance, it might serve you well beyond these limits. But if it’s nearing or past its average lifespan, a replacement might be a better option.
Cost of Repair vs Replacement
Comparing the cost of repairing and replacing the appliance is another important consideration. You can follow the 50% rule. If the cost to repair an appliance is 50% or more than the price of a new one, it’s typically more cost-effective to replace it.
However, this isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, as energy efficiency also plays a significant role in cost analysis. Newer appliance models tend to be more energy-efficient, which could lead to substantial savings on your utility bills over time. So, even if a repair costs less than 50% of a new appliance, the long-term energy savings of a new appliance might tilt the scale towards replacement.
Frequent Breakdowns
If your appliance is frequently breaking down, it’s a clear indicator that it might be time to replace it. Regular malfunctions not only cause inconvenience but can also turn out to be more expensive in the long run.
Availability of Parts
Manufacturers typically stop producing spare parts for older models after a certain period. If your appliance is so old that its parts are no longer available, repairing it might not be feasible. When you can’t source the necessary parts, replacement becomes the only option.
Aesthetics and Kitchen Remodels
If you’re planning a kitchen remodel or simply updating the look of your kitchen, aesthetics become important. Your old appliance might not match your new kitchen’s style or the other modern appliances. In such cases, replacement becomes a more attractive option, even if the appliance is working just fine.
Professional Evaluation
If you’re still unsure about the condition of your kitchen appliances or the best course of action, it’s advisable to seek professional help. Experienced technicians can assess the performance, safety and repairability of your appliances accurately. They can provide insights and recommendations based on their expertise.
Appliance Installation and Repairs on the Sunshine Coast
At Excite Electrics, we can help you decide whether it’s time for a repair or a replacement for your appliance. Our team will provide reliable repair services and assist you with the selection and installation of new appliances if a replacement is the best course of action. Contact us today for a no-obligation quote.