Age & Condition
Where is the appliance in its expected lifespan, and how is the rest of it holding up?
Should You Repair or Replace Your Appliance?
A practical framework — appliance age, condition, repair cost, parts, safety, and efficiency — to help you make a sensible decision instead of a rushed one.
A Practical Repair-or-Replace Framework
Consumers need a framework, not a rule. Weigh these factors together rather than deciding on age alone.
Nature of the Failure
Is this a common, repairable part, or a major component like a sealed system or compressor?
Repair vs. Replacement Cost
Compare the repair estimate against a comparable new unit plus installation.
Parts Availability
Discontinued or backordered parts can change the math.
Safety
Gas, electrical, or fire-risk issues can push toward replacement.
Efficiency
Newer ENERGY STAR models can use meaningfully less energy and water.
Lifespan, Repair, and Replacement at a Glance
Directional national reference points to frame the decision — not a verdict on your specific appliance.
Appliance Typical life Typical repair New unit
Refrigerator 9-13 years $150-$400 $430-$10,600
Washer 5-15 years $180-$250 $445-$2,300
Dryer About 13 years $100-$430 $445-$2,100
Dishwasher About 10 years $75-$600 $330-$1,900
Oven / Range 13-17 years $108-$310 $410-$7,500
When a repair approaches the cost of a comparable new unit installed, replacement usually wins. ENERGY STAR washers use roughly 20% less energy and 30% less water than standard models, and an efficient dishwasher can save about 5,800 gallons over its lifetime — worth weighing, but not a reason to replace a healthy appliance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is repair always less expensive than replacement?
Not always. Repair usually makes sense when the appliance is otherwise in good condition and the issue is reasonably repairable. Replacement can be better after repeated failures, major component damage, or safety concerns.
How do you decide what to recommend?
We weigh the appliance's age and condition, the nature of the failure, the repair estimate versus replacement cost, parts availability, safety, warranty status, and efficiency. The goal is a sensible decision, not a repair at any cost.