We’ve all heard that appliances just aren’t made the way they used to be. Who doesn’t have a grandparent or relative who proclaims to have had the same fridge for 30 plus years?

Appliances today have become almost disposable. However, it may not just be an issue of appliance quality that’s shortening the lifespan of major household appliances. Compared to even a decade ago, the cost of new appliances has come down considerably. Most major appliances can now be purchased new for less than $1,000; replacing, in some cases, is more cost-effective than appliances repair in Richmond.

But just because we can afford to replace broken appliances doesn’t mean we should. Regardless of what they cost, appliances are an investment, and replacing them prematurely isn’t only bad for your budget. It can also negatively impact our environment when everyone should be trying to reduce their carbon footprints.

So, when is it time to replace an old appliance, and when is it best to choose appliance repair in Richmond?

How Old Is the Appliance?

According to Consumer Reports, with an average usage of 5 cycles per week, dishwashers typically have the shortest life expectancy of any major appliance, at between 8-10 years. Dishwashers are also one the most expensive appliances to repair in Richmond, with major components like the pump or motor being the first to go.

For consumers trying to decide between repair and replacement, a 50% rule is often used. If your appliance has passed 50% of its anticipated usable life expectancy and will cost more than 50% of the price of a new appliance to repair, then signs point to replacement.

In the case of our dishwasher, suppose the appliance was five years old and would cost $300 to repair, and a new dishwasher can be purchased for $600; the 50% rule would say it is time to replace. But this equation changes depending on the appliance. While entry-level dishwashers may start around $500, most mid to high-end appliances cost significantly more, between $1,000 and $1,500. Very rarely would a repair come in at 50% of that cost. In this case, a $300 dishwasher repair that could extend the life expectancy of a $1,000 machine by another 3-5 years would be a better option.

Is Your Current Appliance Energy Star Rated?

If you have an older appliance that you have been diligently maintaining but has finally broken down, appliances repair in Richmond could help. Still, it may not be your smartest option.

Launched in 1992 by the Environmental Protection Agency, Energy Star certification has become the standard in identifying energy-efficient products, including major appliances. Today, most major appliance brands are Energy Star rated and consume up to 50% less energy than non-rated appliances. If your older appliances are not Energy Star certified, it may be time to stop repairing them and to replace them instead. Replacing older appliances with newer, energy-efficient models can positively impact both the environment and your wallet, reducing your energy consumption and lowering your electricity bill.

Buying New Can Have Hidden Costs

When you buy a new appliance instead of repairing a broken one, there are factors other than price that need to be considered.

Many outlets, even big-name retailers, charge a delivery fee for bringing your appliance to your home and a second fee if you need them to dispose of your existing machine. These fees combined can often add up to be hundreds of dollars.

Depending on the age and location of your existing appliance, you also may need to update electrical, plumbing, ventilation, or cabinetry to accommodate a new appliance. These sorts of jobs may sound straightforward, but the costs can add up quickly.

For experienced repair technicians who can fix any appliance new or old, contact Liberty Appliance Repair today.