Fixing appliances: Knowing when it's worth it

by Executive Housing Consultants, Inc 02/09/2024

open dishwasher with dishes

Sometimes, fixing appliances that are malfunctioning is the simplest and most cost-effective solution to household problems. However, many household appliances can be a challenge to repair, even for the most DIY-savvy homeowners. How do you know when it’s better to replace an appliance completely?

There are several things to consider before deciding whether to repair or replace.

Repair vs. replace: How to estimate

The best way to get a repair estimate is to consult a professional for a quote.

According to experts, if the cost of a repair is more than 50% of the cost of a replacement, replace the appliance. However, the lifespan of the appliance should also be considered. If the broken appliance is also more than 50% through its expected lifespan, it may be best to replace. Conversely, it may be more worthwhile to repair much newer home appliances.

Know what to expect from major appliances

Major household appliances have general life expectancies based on manufacturer data. For example, an electric stove is expected to last approximately 15 years before needing replacement. Air conditioners and washing machines are expected to last around 10 years when properly maintained.

These are only a few examples, but knowing the expected lifespan of your appliances is crucial to making the decision between appliance repair and appliance replacement. Luckily, there is plenty of information available both online and from manufacturers directly.

When to consider replacing an appliance

If you’re a DIY enthusiast, it might seem most logical to replace your household appliances on your own. However, there are some downsides to consider before breaking out your tools, including:

Large or major appliances can be extremely heavy and difficult to maneuver, and you might risk injuring yourself trying to fix them yourself.
Tinkering with home appliances can potentially void manufacturer warranties.
Replacement electrical parts are usually non-refundable, so choosing the wrong replacement parts can be costly.

In general, the best way to save money is to make sure your household appliances are in excellent condition. With simple, regular maintenance, you can get the maximum amount of time out of an appliance before it will need any major repairs or replacement.

Appliance Maintenance

Appliances

Repair

About the Author

Executive Housing Consultants, Inc

Executive Housing Consultants, Inc. is the residential real estate company specializing in the rental and management of luxury properties in the Washington Metro area. This includes Chevy Chase, Bethesda, Potomac and North Potomac, Maryland, Upper Northwest Washington, DC, and McLean, Arlington and Great Falls, Virginia. Executive Housing Consultants was founded in 1983 to provide exceptional service and management of high-end rental housing. Our founders, Libbie Mathes and Rochelle Scissors, traveled the world and were disappointed with their experiences with the leasing and management of their homes in the Washington area while abroad. They recognized the need for a well-run, property management company. Libbie and Rochelle believed they could manage and run a rental real estate firm more efficiently than any of the companies they had dealt with during their time away. They also discovered the need for quality temporary housing in Washington. So they created our short-term furnished portfolio to serve those visiting Washington for a temporary stay and those relocating to the area that need a furnished property while they looked for a permanent housing solution. In 1997, Brian Ridgway took over Executive Housing Consultants and has continued our strong reputation of offering high-quality, upscale temporary and long-term rental real estate. Mission Statement Executive Housing Consultants Inc. is a leader in providing luxury temporary housing to our clients in the Washington Metro area. Our pledge is to offer exceptional housing and superior service while maintaining the highest level of integrity and strict ethical values. In addition, we promise to: Be loyal to our clients. Protect our clients’ interests in all matters. Promptly and diligently respond to our clients’ needs and the needs of their properties. Remain the experts in our industry. Why Are We Unique? We are truly the experts in this industry. Leasing and managing rental properties in the Washington Metro area is our niche; it is ALL we do. We offer unparalleled expertise, service, and value to our clients. In addition: Our contact and referral network is vast. We set the standard for world-class service in our industry. We are your link to success, whatever your residential rental needs maybe. Our clients own some of the most valuable real estate in the Metropolitan Washington, D.C. area. Contact Executive Housing Consultants Inc. for more info! Phone: (301)951-4111 | Email: info@executivehousing.com