Do I Repair or Replace Home Appliances?

Several factors go into deciding whether to repair or replace an appliance: Is the appliance under warranty? How old is the appliance? Is it worth the cost of repair? These and more are all questions to take into consideration before repairing or replacing an appliance.

Check your owner’s manual. If your appliance is still relatively new, your warranty should cover the replacement of major parts. Replacement parts are usually available for at least 10 years after the appliance was manufactured. Remember that your warranty may treat parts and labor costs differently.

Get an expert on the phone. Contact Lowe's or your appliance manufacturer’s customer service. You can find the manufacturer's number in the owner’s manual or online. They’ll help diagnose your problem and lead you in the right direction.

Figure out the cost of repair. If your appliance is relatively new, replacing a part may be less expensive than buying a new appliance. However, if the cost of repair is more than half the purchase price, you should consider replacing the unit. Think about how long the repair might extend the life of the unit.

Compare the cost of repair to the cost of buying a new appliance. Many of today’s models are more energy efficient than older models. Purchasing an energy-efficient appliance may save you money in the long run and help the environment. You might also receive a tax credit for purchasing an energy-efficient appliance.

The age and life expectancy of your appliance should factor into your decision about whether to repair or replace it. The life span of an appliance varies, depending on maintenance and usage. Below are the average life expectancies (in years) of some common appliances: