Everyone has probably faced the question at some point: should you repair an old household appliance or buy a new one? In this decision, it's not only the repair cost that matters but also the condition of the appliance, its age, and your financial possibilities. As an experienced technician in appliance repair, I can say that in most cases, the decision depends on several factors, which I will discuss in this article.
The first thing to consider is the age of your appliance. Typically, household appliances like refrigerators, washing machines, dishwashers, and microwaves last an average of 8-15 years. If your appliance is older than 10 years, this is already a serious reason to think twice. In my experience, I often see that old models begin to lose efficiency and start breaking down due to worn-out parts.
For example, if an old refrigerator constantly breaks down and requires expensive parts, it might be more cost-effective to replace it. Considering that modern refrigerators are more energy-efficient, replacing the device could be a better investment in the long term. However, if the appliance has minor issues and is less than 8 years old, in most cases, repairing it is the more reasonable option.
When deciding what to do with a broken appliance, it’s essential to consider not only the repair cost but also the cost of a new model. A situation where the repair of an old appliance costs almost as much as a new one is quite common. In such cases, I recommend not spending money on repairs and investing in a new device instead.
While replacing a part in an old washing machine or dishwasher can cost several thousand rubles, buying a new model with better features and energy-saving technologies might be more cost-effective in the long run. I always tell my clients that repairs on old appliances usually don't justify themselves, especially when the device is aging and breaks down repeatedly.
If your appliance breaks down regularly, this should also be a crucial factor in your decision. From my experience, I’ve seen many cases where owners of washing machines or dryers spent money on repairs, but the appliances kept breaking down. These issues are often due to internal components wearing out, and even after replacing parts, failures happen repeatedly.
If breakdowns occur frequently and hinder the appliance's use, it’s likely that repairing it isn’t worth the investment. In such cases, it’s better to invest in a new appliance that will work reliably without issues. I always recommend to my clients that they focus on the reliability and durability of the device, especially when it comes to appliances that are used daily.
When dealing with complex household appliances, such as washing machines with inverter motors, expensive refrigerators with smart features, and other devices with high-tech systems, DIY repairs can be extremely dangerous. In such cases, I strongly advise against attempting repairs on your own, as electrical appliances often contain components that pose a risk of electric shock.
As an experienced technician, I always recommend not taking risks and contacting professionals like Appliance Repair Garland. This not only ensures high-quality and safe repairs but also saves you time and money in the future, as improper repairs can lead to more serious breakdowns.
Professional technicians have the necessary knowledge, tools, and experience to not only fix your appliance but also do it safely and efficiently. When you contact specialists, you get not only quality repairs but also a warranty on the work. This is especially important for devices that require expensive and complex repairs, such as air conditioners, washing machines, or dishwashers.
Professional repair also includes diagnostics that can uncover other potential issues before they become serious problems. This helps you avoid unpleasant surprises and extra costs. For example, if during the repair of a refrigerator you discover issues with the refrigerant, a professional can address this on the spot, preventing further breakdowns.
Ultimately, the decision to repair an old appliance or buy a new one depends on many factors, including the age of the device, the cost of repairs, and the frequency of breakdowns. When the repair is minor and the appliance isn’t too old, repairing it can be a good solution. However, if you face constant problems or the repair cost is close to the price of a new device, replacing the appliance is a more economical option.
Don’t forget that complex devices requiring specialized knowledge and tools are best repaired by professionals to avoid unnecessary costs and potential damage.
