Your refrigerator is on the fritz. Your washing machine is making a sound it definitely should not make. You are faced with the classic homeowner dilemma: repair or replace? The answer is not always obvious, but with the right framework, you can make a decision you will feel good about.
The 50% Rule: A Good Starting Point
Here is a simple rule of thumb many repair professionals use: if the repair cost exceeds 50% of the price of a new appliance, replacement often makes more sense. But this is just a starting point—other factors matter too.
Quick Math Example
If a new refrigerator costs $1,200 and your repair estimate is $650, that is over 50%—leaning toward replacement. But if your fridge is only 3 years old and the repair is a common fix, that changes the equation.
Age Matters: Average Appliance Lifespans
Understanding how long appliances typically last helps frame your decision. Here are average lifespans:
Refrigerator
10–18 years
Washing Machine
10–14 years
Dryer
10–13 years
Dishwasher
9–12 years
Oven/Range
13–20 years
Freezer
12–20 years
If your appliance is past its expected lifespan and needs a major repair, replacement is usually the smarter investment.
When Repair Makes Sense
The appliance is relatively new
If it is less than halfway through its expected lifespan, repair usually makes sense.
It is a minor, common issue
Simple fixes like a faulty thermostat, worn seal, or clogged filter are usually worth repairing.
It is a high-end model
Premium appliances are built to last and often worth maintaining.
Repair cost is well under 50% of replacement
A $200 repair on a $1,500 appliance is almost always worthwhile.
When Replacement Makes Sense
The appliance is old and needs major repairs
A compressor failure on a 15-year-old fridge signals it is time to move on.
It has needed multiple repairs recently
Frequent breakdowns suggest the appliance is wearing out overall.
Energy efficiency has improved significantly
Newer models can save you money on utility bills, offsetting the purchase cost over time.
Parts are discontinued or hard to find
If the manufacturer no longer supports the model, repairs become increasingly difficult.
The Bottom Line
There is no universal answer—every situation is different. But by considering age, repair cost, appliance quality, and your own circumstances, you can make a decision that makes financial and practical sense.
And here is our promise: when you call us for a repair, we will give you an honest assessment. If we think replacement makes more sense, we will tell you—even though that means less work for us. That is just how we operate.
Need Help Deciding?
We will diagnose your appliance and give you an honest recommendation—no pressure.