Repair or Replace? How to Decide for Every Major Appliance
The repair-or-replace decision comes down to three things: the cost of the repair, the age of the appliance, and how reliable it's been. This guide gives you a framework that works for every major home appliance.
The 50% Rule
Consumer Reports popularized this rule: if a repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new appliance, and the appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan, replace it. For a $700 washer with a 10-year lifespan, that means a repair over $350 on a 5+ year-old machine tips toward replacement.
Expected Lifespan by Appliance
| Appliance | Average Lifespan | Replace After… |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 13–17 years | Year 10+ |
| Washer | 10–14 years | Year 7+ |
| Dryer | 10–14 years | Year 7+ |
| Dishwasher | 9–12 years | Year 7+ |
| Gas Range/Oven | 15–17 years | Year 10+ |
| Electric Range/Oven | 13–15 years | Year 9+ |
| Microwave | 8–10 years | Year 6+ |
| Freezer | 12–17 years | Year 10+ |
When Repair Almost Always Makes Sense
The appliance is less than 5 years old. A young appliance that breaks is almost certainly worth repairing — you likely have years of reliable service ahead. The repair is minor and the part is cheap. A $40 door gasket, a $25 dryer belt, or a $60 oven igniter are all clearly worth fixing regardless of age. The appliance is a high-end model. Premium appliances have higher replacement costs, so the math on repair favors you more.
When Replacement Usually Wins
The appliance has had multiple repairs. If you've already sunk $400 into repairs over two years and something new breaks, replacement is likely more economical. Energy costs are high. Older appliances — particularly refrigerators and washers — can cost two to three times more to run than modern Energy Star models. Parts are no longer available. If the manufacturer has discontinued the part and it must be sourced from third parties, that's often a sign the appliance's days are numbered.
Get a Professional Assessment
Not sure if your repair is worth it? A certified technician can diagnose the issue and give you an honest recommendation.
📞 Call (833) 463-1941Factor in Energy Savings
A new ENERGY STAR refrigerator can save $100–$200 per year in electricity compared to a model from 2010. Over 5 years, that's $500–$1,000 in savings — which may more than offset the cost of a new appliance versus an expensive repair on an old one. This calculation matters most for refrigerators, washers, and dryers, which are your highest-energy appliances.