When Should I Repair or Replace a Broken Appliance?

Dealing with a broken appliance is often frustrating, and can leave you questioning whether or not you should just replace it. And we get that question can leave you stressed, so in this post we're going to breakdown all the facts you need to know, on whether you should repair or replace your broken appliance. The factors you'll need to consider are, efficiency, energy savings, features and if your appliance is still under warranty.

Please note, that the warranty range and average replacement costs are averages taken from all businesses in Ottawa.

Dishwasher

Dryer

Now Let's Review Each Appliance

Refrigerators

Efficiency and Energy Savings

Newer refrigerators can save around $100-$200 per year in energy costs, using up to 40% less energy than older models. This is because modern refrigerators have improved insulation, more efficient compressors, and advanced temperature controls that help maintain consistent temperatures and reduce energy consumption. By upgrading to a more energy-efficient model, you not only save on your energy bills but also reduce your carbon footprint.

Features of Newer Models

Smart technology: Some refrigerators now come with smart technology that allows you to control and monitor your fridge remotely via a smartphone app. This enables better temperature control, energy management, and even alerts for potential maintenance issues.
Adjustable shelving: Adjustable shelving allows you to customize the interior layout of your fridge, making it easy to store various sizes of food containers and items, ultimately maximizing space utilization.
Dual temperature zones: Dual temperature zones help preserve different types of food at their optimal temperatures, ensuring that your food stays fresher for longer periods. This can help reduce food waste and save you money on groceries.
More efficient cooling systems: Newer refrigerators are designed with more efficient cooling systems, which not only reduce energy consumption but also ensure that your food is stored at a consistent temperature, maintaining its quality and freshness.

Warranty Range: 1-2 years for parts and labor, 5-10 years for the compressor.
Average Repair Cost: $200-$400
Average Replacement Cost: $900-$2,500

Is It Time To Upgrade Or To Fix?

If the repair cost for your older refrigerator is less than 50% of the cost of a new energy-efficient model, it may be worth repairing. However, if the repair cost is higher or your refrigerator is more than 10 years old, it might be more cost-effective to replace it with a newer, energy-efficient model that offers new features and long-term energy savings. Upgrading to a modern refrigerator will not only save you money on energy costs but also provide you with advanced features that enhance the functionality and convenience of your appliance.

For help fixing your fridge, see our fridge repair service.

Ovens

Efficiency and Energy Savings

Newer ovens save around 10-20% on energy compared to older models, resulting in a $15 reduction in annual energy costs. This is due to better insulation, more efficient heating elements, and improved temperature controls in modern ovens. By upgrading to an energy-efficient oven, you can reduce your energy consumption and lower your utility bills, while also minimizing your environmental impact.

Features of Newer Models

Convection cooking: Convection ovens circulate hot air around the food, allowing for faster and more even cooking. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps save energy by requiring less heat.
Touch controls: Touch controls make operating your oven more intuitive and easier to clean, compared to traditional dials and buttons.
Self-cleaning options: Self-cleaning ovens use high heat to burn off food residue, saving you time and effort in maintaining a clean oven interior.
Smart connectivity: Some ovens now offer smart connectivity, allowing you to control and monitor your oven remotely through a smartphone app. This provides added convenience and can help optimize energy usage.

Warranty Range: 1-2 years for parts and labor, 5 years for heating elements.

Average Repair Cost: $150-$350

Average Replacement Cost: $1,000-$3,000

Fix Or Save Time With Self-Cleaning And Convection Cooking?

Consider repairing your oven if the repair cost is less than 50% of the cost of a new energy-efficient model. If the repair cost is higher or your oven is over 10 years old, replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient model with improved features could be a better option. Investing in a modern oven not only provides energy savings but also enhances your cooking experience with advanced features that offer greater convenience and functionality.

For help fixing your oven, see our oven repair service.

Microwaves

Efficiency and Energy Savings

Modern microwaves are about 10-15% more energy-efficient than older units, thanks to improved heating technology and optimized energy usage. By upgrading to a more energy-efficient microwave, you can save on your energy bills while also reducing your environmental footprint.

Features of Newer Models

1. Inverter technology: Inverter microwaves provide more even heating and precise temperature control, preventing overcooking and ensuring better food quality.
2. Sensor cooking: Sensor cooking technology adjusts cooking time and power levels based on the food's moisture levels, optimizing energy usage and preventing overcooking.
3. Combination oven/microwave functions: Combination models offer versatility in cooking, combining the functionality of an oven and a microwave in a single appliance, saving both space and energy.

Warranty Range: 1-2 years for parts and labor, 5-10 years for the magnetron.
Average Repair Cost: $100-$250
Average Replacement Cost: $100-$500

If the repair cost is less than 50% of the cost of a new microwave, repairing it might be worthwhile. However, if the repair cost is higher or your microwave is more than 7-10 years old, replacing it with a new, more energy-efficient model could be more cost-effective. Upgrading to a modern microwave not only helps you save on energy costs but also offers advanced features that improve your cooking experience and convenience.

For help fixing your microwave, see our microwave repair service.

Washers

Efficiency and Energy Savings

High-efficiency washing machines save around $100 per year on average, using 20-60% less water and 20-50% less energy than traditional models. This is due to advanced motor technology, better water management systems, and optimized washing cycles that maximize cleaning performance while minimizing energy and water consumption.

Features of Newer Models

Larger capacity: Newer washing machines offer larger capacities, allowing you to wash more clothes in a single load, reducing the number of loads and the overall energy consumption.
Steam cleaning: Steam cleaning technology helps remove tough stains and allergens, resulting in cleaner clothes and improved washing performance.
Customizable cycles: Modern washers come with various cycle options that accommodate different types of fabrics and washing needs, ensuring efficient cleaning while conserving energy and water.
Smart features: Smart washers enable remote monitoring and control, allowing you to optimize your laundry routine and save energy.

Warranty Range: 1-2 years for parts and labor, 5-10 years for the motor and drum.

Average Repair Cost: $150-$350

Average Replacement Cost: $500-$1,500

Washer Woes: Repair or Revel in Enhanced Features?

If the repair cost is less than 50% of the cost of a new high-efficiency washer, it may be worth repairing. However, if the repair cost is higher or your washer is over 8-10 years old, replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model might be the better choice. Upgrading to a modern washer not only helps you save on energy and water costs but also provides advanced features that enhance your laundry experience and overall convenience.

For help fixing your washer, see our washer repair service.

Dryers

Efficiency and Energy Savings

Energy-efficient dryers can save up to 20% on energy costs compared to older models, providing significant savings on your utility bills.

Features of Newer Models

Sensor drying technology prevents over-drying and conserves energy
Steam options reduce wrinkles and refresh clothes
Larger capacity allows for more efficient laundry days
Energy-efficient heat pump technology further reduces energy consumption Warranty Range: 1-2 years for parts and labor, 5-10 years for the motor and drum Average Repair Cost: $100-$400 Average Replacement Cost: $400-$1,800

For help fixing your dryer, see our dryer repair service.

Drying Out Dilemmas: Repair or Upgrade to a High-Tech Dryer?

If the repair cost for your dryer is less than 50% of the cost of a new energy-efficient model, repairing it might be a reasonable choice. However, if the repair cost is higher or your dryer is more than 8-10 years old, upgrading to a new, energy-efficient model with advanced features could be a wiser, long-term investment.

Dishwashers

Dishwashers Efficiency and Energy Savings

Modern dishwashers can save up to 30% on energy and water usage compared to older models, reducing annual energy costs significantly. Features of Newer Models:

Advanced washing technology for improved cleaning performance
Soil sensors to optimize water and energy usage
Third racks for increased loading capacity
Sanitizing and steam cleaning options
Quiet operation and reduced noise levels
Smart connectivity for remote control and monitoring

Warranty Range: 1-2 years for parts and labor, 5-10 years for the motor and pump.

Average Repair Cost: $150-$350

Average Replacement Cost: $400-$1,200

Time to Fix or Upgrade to Sparkling Dishes

If the repair cost for your dishwasher is less than 50% of the cost of a new energy-efficient model, it may be worth repairing. However, if the repair cost is higher or your dishwasher is more than 8-10 years old, replacing it with a newer, energy-efficient model with enhanced features could be a better investment.

For help fixing your dishwasher, see our dishwasher repair service.

Viktor Shkinder is the dedicated owner and leading technician at AllAppliance Tech & Repair in Ottawa. With years of hands-on experience in the appliance repair industry, Viktor is renowned for his unwavering commitment to honesty, integrity, and exceptional craftsmanship. His family-owned and operated business stands out in Ottawa as a beacon of trustworthiness, thanks to their dedication to never cutting corners and always owning up to their mistakes. Viktor's expertise spans across most major appliances, from dishwashers and dryers to microwaves and fridges.

Proudly serving his local community, Viktor values every personal connection he builds with his customers, often going the extra mile with same-day responses and quick appointment scheduling. When he's not busy restoring appliances to their optimal condition, you might find Viktor spending quality time with his family or exploring the beautiful landscapes of Ottawa.

For updates on appliance maintenance and repair tips, follow Viktor on LinkedIn. If you're in Ottawa and need expert appliance guidance, reach out – Viktor is always eager to help!

Appliance Repair Cost Guide