7 Appliances That Are Cheaper to Replace Than to Fix
Updated: Apr. 04, 2022
Everyday appliances that help you function in life are always going to break down, usually at the most inopportune time. It's vital to know when it's better to replace rather than fix a major item.
Rangehood
The average repair bill for a rangehood runs $264—and unless you’re rocking a professional chef quality rangehood (which can easily dip into four figures), you might want to consider replacing it with a new one for around the same price. Before you buy, try cleaning out your old, dusty rangehood to see if that works.
Microwave
According to the first “U.S. Appliance Repair Affordability, Reliability and Seasonality Report” released by Puls, the average microwave repair bill is $195. You can purchase a high-end new microwave from a manufacturer like Toshiba for about $120. In the meantime, here are some tips for getting your microwave sparkling clean.
Freezer
At an average cost of $348 to repair a freezer, you may consider going that route, instead of buying a new one. But when you consider that, for example, a new Arctic King chest freezer can be had for $250, that repair bill doesn’t seem like such a bargain. Once you have a working freezer, fill it with these foods that freeze surprisingly well.
Dishwasher
The average cost to repair a dishwasher is $204, and a new entry-level offering from top-rated Bosch is $758. If yours is on the newer side, you’re better off fixing it. If it’s older, a new one is a better investment if your dishes are looking a little dingy even after they’ve gone through a cycle. Or, add this ingredient to the dishwasher for a noticeable sparkle.
Cooktop
A new cooktop starts around $500, while the average cost to repair your old one is going to cost you $260. Depending on how fancy and how old yours is, the repair cost might be worth it. If your cooktop is glass, here is how you can clean it.
Oven
Ovens can last more than a dozen years and repairs cost $226 on average, while this brand-new oven from Gasland goes for $500. So, it’s a bit of a toss-up: if your oven is old, replace it, otherwise, go with the repair.
Dryer
The average cost to repair a clothes dryer is $209, while a new washer/dryer combo from LG, one of the most reliable brands of dryers according to the Puls report, costs about $800 to $1,600 and can last over a decade. Arm yourself with these key mistakes to avoid when doing laundry to help extend your dryer’s life.
Look for energy efficiency
No matter what kind of appliance you’re shopping for, energy efficiency is key. “Dishwashers, refrigerators and washing machines are some of the most energy-consuming appliances at home, especially if they are old models,” advises Matthias Alleckna, energy analyst. “If your goal is to save money, it’s financially smarter to invest in new appliances instead of fixing them. New devices tend to be more energy-efficient, meaning that they will help to reduce your monthly energy costs. After some years, or in some cases, just months, you could have a great deal of your money back in energy savings.”
