Repair
vs Replace
An honest framework for deciding when to fix your appliance and when it's time for a new one. No sales pitch — just the information you need to make a confident decision.
Our Approach
We never recommend a replacement when a repair will do. Our diagnostic fee goes toward the repair — not toward selling you something new.
Most appliance problems are fixable, and most repairs cost a fraction of what a new unit would. When we come to your home, our goal is to diagnose the root cause and give you a clear, no-pressure recommendation based on the specific condition of your appliance.
But sometimes, the honest answer is that a repair doesn't make financial sense. When that's the case, we'll tell you directly and explain why — so you can put your money where it counts. Below is the framework we use to help homeowners make that call.
Five Factors
We Consider
The 50% Rule
If the repair cost exceeds 50% of what a comparable new appliance would cost, replacement is generally the smarter investment. This is the single most reliable guideline we use.
Age vs. Lifespan
Every appliance has an expected lifespan. If yours has exceeded 75% of that window and needs a major repair, the math favors replacement. Minor repairs on older units can still make sense.
Repair Frequency
A single repair on a healthy appliance is normal. But if you've had two or more service calls in the past 12 months, the appliance is telling you something. Recurring issues often signal systemic decline.
Energy Efficiency
Appliances manufactured in the last 5–7 years are significantly more energy efficient. If your unit is old enough to be costing you noticeably more on utility bills, a new model may pay for itself over time.
Parts Availability
Manufacturers typically stock parts for 7–10 years after discontinuing a model. If parts are becoming hard to source or require long lead times, that's a practical reason to consider replacement.
By Appliance
Typical lifespans, repair thresholds, and the signals that tell you which direction to go.
Refrigerator
Likely Worth Repairing
- Thermostat, fan motor, or relay issues
- Door seal replacement
- Ice maker malfunctions
Consider Replacing
- Compressor failure on a unit over 12 years old
- Frequent refrigerant leaks requiring repeated recharges
- Repair cost exceeds 50% of a comparable new unit
Oven & Range
Likely Worth Repairing
- Igniter or heating element replacement
- Temperature sensor issues
- Door hinge or latch problems
Consider Replacing
- Control board failure on a unit over 15 years old
- Cracked cooktop or compromised gas valve
- Inconsistent heating that persists after calibration
Dishwasher
Likely Worth Repairing
- Spray arm or float switch replacement
- Door latch or gasket issues
- Drain pump clogs or simple valve replacement
Consider Replacing
- Motor or pump failure on a unit over 9 years old
- Tub cracks or persistent leaking from the base
- Control board failure combined with other wear
Washer
Likely Worth Repairing
- Lid switch or door latch replacement
- Drain pump or inlet valve issues
- Belt, shock absorber, or suspension rod wear
Consider Replacing
- Transmission or main bearing failure
- Drum spider arm corrosion (common in front-loaders)
- Multiple simultaneous component failures
Dryer
Likely Worth Repairing
- Heating element or thermal fuse replacement
- Belt, roller, or idler pulley wear
- Timer or cycling thermostat issues
Consider Replacing
- Motor failure on a unit over 12 years old
- Gas valve or igniter issues combined with drum damage
- Repeated thermal fuse failure indicating deeper problems
Ice Maker & Disposal
Likely Worth Repairing
- Water inlet valve replacement
- Disposal jam clearing or flywheel reset
- Thermostat or mold assembly issues
Consider Replacing
- Compressor failure on standalone ice makers
- Disposal motor burnout with visible corrosion
- Unit age exceeds 8 years with major component failure
The Bottom Line
Most appliance problems are repairable — and most repairs are worth it. When they're not, we'll be the first to tell you.
Every situation is different. The age of your unit, the specific failure, your usage patterns, and even the brand all factor into the recommendation. That's why we always start with a proper diagnostic — so the advice we give is based on your appliance, not a generic rule of thumb.