Should You Repair or Replace That Old Appliance? Here’s How to Decide

It’s a dilemma every homeowner faces at some point: Should you keep repairing your old appliance or invest in a new one? At Apex Appliances, we frequently help Kelowna residents make this tough decision. Let’s break down the factors to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your household appliances.

1. Consider the Age of Your Appliance

Most appliances have a general lifespan. Here’s a quick look at average appliance longevity:

  • Refrigerators: 10-15 years
  • Washers and Dryers: 8-12 years
  • Dishwashers: 7-10 years
  • Ovens and Stoves: 10-15 years

Rule of Thumb:
If your appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan and the repair costs exceed 50% of the replacement price, it’s usually more cost-effective to replace it.

2. Evaluate the Cost of Repairs

One of the key factors is how much you’ll spend fixing your appliance. Here’s how to assess:

  • Minor Repairs: Loose wires, clogged filters, or worn belts are generally affordable.
  • Major Repairs: Compressor issues, motor replacements, or circuit board failures can be costly.

Pro Tip: Always get a repair estimate from a professional before making a decision. Apex Appliances provides accurate, transparent quotes to help you make the right choice.

3. Energy Efficiency Matters

Older appliances typically consume more power, driving up your utility bills. Investing in an ENERGY STAR® certified model can reduce your energy consumption by 20-30%.

Signs Your Appliance Is an Energy Hog:

  • Unusual noises or overheating
  • Increased energy bills without other explanations
  • Running constantly to maintain function (like a fridge that doesn’t cycle off)

4. How Often Has It Broken Down?

If your appliance has needed multiple repairs recently, it might be reaching the end of its useful life. Consider how often you’ve called a technician in the past year.

Tip: If you’re repeatedly fixing the same problem, it may be time to replace the appliance altogether.

5. Availability of Replacement Parts

Sometimes, the decision to replace comes down to practicality. If your model is discontinued or parts are hard to find, repairing it may not be a long-term solution.

What We Recommend:
Consult a professional to determine whether parts are still available. Apex Appliances can help source hard-to-find parts or recommend suitable replacements.

6. Think About Warranty Coverage

If your appliance is still under warranty, repairs are likely the better choice. However, if the warranty has expired and repair costs are climbing, replacing might be more economical.

Final Thoughts: Repair or Replace?

When deciding whether to repair or replace, always consider the age, repair cost, energy efficiency, breakdown frequency, and warranty status. At Apex Appliances, we help Kelowna homeowners make informed choices that save money and reduce stress.

If you’re not sure what to do, contact Apex Appliances for a professional assessment. We’ll help you weigh your options and guide you to the best decision.