Use the 50% rule: if the repair costs less than half the price of a new appliance, and the appliance is less than halfway through its normal life, repair it. If it's old, breaking often, or the repair costs more than half the price of new, replacing usually makes more sense.
The 50% Rule Explained
Take the repair price and compare it to the cost of a similar new appliance. If the repair is less than half, and the unit has plenty of life left, repair is usually the smart choice. If the repair is more than half, or the appliance is near the end of its life, think about replacing.
How Long Appliances Usually Last
These average lifespans are based on figures shared by Bob Vila, several of which come from the National Association of Home Builders.
| Appliance | Average life |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | About 13 years |
| Dishwasher | About 9 years |
| Washer | About 10 years |
| Dryer | About 13 years |
| Gas range | About 15 years |
| Electric range | About 13 years |
| Microwave | About 9 years |
| Freezer | About 11 years |
| Garbage disposal | About 12 years |
Signs It's Time to Replace
- The repair costs more than half the price of a new unit.
- It has broken down more than once in the past year.
- It's past its average lifespan and needs a major part.
- Your power bills keep rising.
- Parts are no longer made for your model.
When Repair Is Almost Always Worth It
- Luxury built-in units like Sub-Zero, Wolf and Thermador, which often last 15 to 20 years or more.
- Simple repairs like fans, switches, belts, seals and igniters.
- Appliances that are less than halfway through their life.
- Built-ins that would mean changing cabinets to replace.
For premium kitchens, see our luxury appliance repair page or our Sub-Zero appliance repair page.
Our Honest Advice Policy
Our technicians will tell you when a repair isn't worth it. We'll show you the repair price so you can compare it to buying new. If you do choose a new unit, we also offer appliance installation so it's hooked up safely.
Not sure if it's worth fixing?
Call us. We'll diagnose the problem, give you the full repair price, and tell you honestly what we'd do.
We also serve appliance repair in Abbington, appliance repair in Chapel Hill, appliance repair in Pemberley and areas we serve across the Triangle. See all appliance repair services and brands we repair.