Should You Repair or Replace a Broken Appliance?
This guide is for general homeowner education. For safety-sensitive repairs or active damage, contact a licensed professional.
Quick answer
Use the 50% rule: if a repair costs more than half the price of a comparable new appliance — and the appliance is more than halfway through its expected life — replacement usually wins. Younger appliances and small fixes (heating elements, gaskets, valves) almost always make sense to repair.
When an appliance breaks, you don't always have to replace it — and you don't always want to repair it. A few simple questions usually point you to the right answer in under a minute.
How old is the appliance?
These are general expected lifespans for major home appliances under typical use.
| Appliance | Typical lifespan |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 10–15 years |
| Dishwasher | 9–12 years |
| Washer | 10–13 years |
| Dryer | 10–13 years |
| Oven / range | 13–15 years |
| Microwave | 7–10 years |
| Garbage disposal | 8–12 years |
Repair cost vs. replacement cost — the 50% rule
If a repair costs more than 50% of replacement, lean toward replacing — especially if the appliance is past the halfway point of its expected life. Below 50%, repair is usually the smarter call.
Quick math
If a 9-year-old dishwasher needs a $400 repair and a comparable new one costs $700 installed, you're at 57% — and the dishwasher is past its halfway point. Replacement is usually the better long-term value.
Warranty considerations
Always check whether the appliance is still under any manufacturer or extended warranty before paying for a service call. Many manufacturers cover sealed systems (refrigerator compressor, washer drum) for far longer than the general parts warranty.
Energy efficiency
A 12-year-old refrigerator can use 2–3x more electricity than a current Energy Star model. If you're already on the fence, the long-term energy savings often tip the decision toward replacement.
Signs replacement makes more sense
- Past 75% of expected lifespan
- Repair quote is more than 50% of replacement
- Multiple components have failed in the past 1–2 years
- Parts are no longer made or are very hard to source
- Energy bills have noticeably increased
- Safety issues (gas, electrical, leaks)
Appliance-by-appliance guidance
Refrigerators
Compressor or sealed system failure on a 10+ year unit — usually replace. Gasket, fan, or thermostat — repair.
Dishwashers
Pump, motor, or control board failure on a 9+ year unit — usually replace. Spray arm, racks, latch — repair.
Washers and dryers
Drum bearings, transmission, or major control board failure on 10+ year units — replace. Belts, heating elements, valves — repair.
Ovens and ranges
Cracked cooktop or major control failure on 13+ year units — usually replace. Heating elements, igniters, knobs — repair.
Microwaves
Magnetron failure on any unit — almost always replace, since the part cost approaches a new unit.
Cost examples
| Repair | Typical repair cost | Typical new appliance cost |
|---|---|---|
| Dishwasher pump | $300–$500 | $500–$1,200 |
| Refrigerator compressor | $400–$1,000 | $800–$2,500 |
| Washer transmission | $400–$700 | $650–$1,500 |
| Oven control board | $300–$500 | $700–$2,000 |
| Microwave magnetron | $200–$400 | $150–$400 |
When to call a professional
Always use a licensed appliance repair technician for gas, refrigerant, or built-in appliances. For freestanding electric appliances out of warranty, get at least one diagnostic quote before deciding — many techs apply the diagnostic fee to the repair cost.
Frequently asked questions
How long should appliances last?+
Refrigerators 10–15 years, dishwashers 9–12, washers and dryers 10–13, microwaves 7–10, and ranges 13–15.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace?+
If the repair is under 50% of replacement and the appliance is under halfway through its life, repair is usually cheaper. Otherwise, replacement often wins.
Are appliance extended warranties worth it?+
Sometimes, especially for high-end refrigerators and laundry pairs. For mid-range appliances, the warranty cost often outweighs typical repair costs.
Should I repair an appliance myself?+
Simple parts like fridge gaskets, dryer belts, dishwasher racks, and burner elements are reasonable DIY. Avoid sealed systems, gas connections, and anything involving the control board on newer smart appliances.
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