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GE Monogram Repair Houston

How To Know If You Need to Repair or Replace Your Appliance

Appliances in the house, be it washers, cookers, refrigerators, and more, cost a lot. They are significant investments and add to the quality of your life at home. It is why, when they break down, it can be a headache to decide whether to repair or replace them. Some issues can be easily fixed using DIY or a technician, but some will have you pondering whether it is perhaps better to just replace the appliance. Here is a checklist and a guide to help you evaluate these two options.

Is the appliance warranty still applicable?

One of the things to check once an appliance breaks down is whether you have a warranty and if it is still usable. Most appliances have a one-to-two-year warranty covering any repair costs the appliance may require within that period. Other manufacturers have system warranties covering specific aspects, going up to 10 years.

If you have a warranty, be sure it covers your repair need before you claim it. Warranties can save you plenty of cash in repairs eliminating the need for replacing. It is, however, important to remember that a warranty is only valid for the first purchaser and does not apply to used appliances.

What is the age of the appliance?

Determining how old your appliance is should be among the first things you consider when deciding whether to repair or replace it. An old appliance has little life left, so getting a replacement will offer more value. The general rule to follow is the 50% rule, where if an appliance still has half its lifespan to go, it is worth repairing it, and if it has less than half its life, then it is probably not worth repairing, and you should instead replace it.

What is the cost of repairing or replacing the appliance?

A crucial determining point of whether to repair or replace is the cost of either option. You can also apply the 50 % rule to the cost of repairs. Thus, if it takes more than 50% of the original price to repair an appliance, it is probably better to replace it. There are several parameters to make a comparison, for example;

  • What is your budget?
  • What is the cost of a new item?
  • What is the cost of removing the old appliance and installing a new one?
  • How often do you need your appliance?
  • What is the necessary extent of repairs?

Often repairing will prove to be cheaper than replacement, but you should consider it against factors like how many new parts you need to buy and if replacing the appliance offers additional value that makes the extra cost worthwhile.

Do you have energy efficiency concerns?

Part of the added value a new replacement appliance may offer is energy efficiency. If you have concerns over the energy efficiency of your appliance, whether it is a washer or a refrigerator, the breaking down may be an opportunity to get a new one. If there are new models in the market that are more energy-efficient, then it makes sense to replace your current unit as the new appliance will offer cost savings and pay for itself in the long run.

Do you want to upgrade or change your style?

If you prefer a certain style, especially in terms of color and design, then old appliances could be standing in your way of achieving your dream look. If a new appliance offers you a chance to achieve a more cohesive look, then it is better for you to replace it instead of repair it. Another consideration is if you have a need to upgrade.

You may want to benefit from new technology or increase the capacity of your appliance to either serve more people or increase efficiency, etc. Whatever your need, if it is significant or urgent, then replacing an appliance is more economical in the long run.

Consider better maintenance practices.

At times, you do not have to get to the repair or replace debacle. With the right maintenance procedures, you can postpone any issue necessitating repairs or replacement. For example, with clothes dryers, a periodical check on the exhaust vent will ensure air flows properly and prolong its life.

Vacuuming the condenser coils of refrigerators will also keep them working in optimum condition without using more power. Operating the dishwasher regularly and avoiding overloading the dryer and washer will ensure they last longer. Most appliances come with their maintenance manual, and you should make use of that.

Conclusion

Determining whether to repair or replace an appliance is not the easiest of choices as there are many considerations. You want to get value for your money while meeting your budget needs. The above checklist will help you make a logical choice, identifying where repairs can offer you more years from your appliance and where it is time to get a new appliance.

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