Repair or Replace? The 50% Rule for Appliances

# Repair or Replace? The 50% Rule for Appliances

When a major appliance breaks down, you face a common dilemma: repair it or buy new? Here's how to make the smart choice.

The 50% Rule

A widely-accepted guideline in the appliance industry: **If the repair costs more than 50% of a new appliance's price AND the appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan, replacement is usually the better investment.**

Average Appliance Lifespans

• **Refrigerator:** 10-20 years
• **Washer:** 10-14 years
• **Dryer:** 10-13 years
• **Dishwasher:** 9-12 years
• **Oven/Range:** 10-18 years
• **Microwave:** 9-10 years

Factors Favoring Repair

1. **Newer appliance:** If it's less than halfway through its lifespan 2. **Minor repair:** Quick fixes like replacing a belt or thermostat 3. **High-end brand:** Premium appliances are built to last and worth maintaining 4. **Repair cost under 50%:** Basic cost-effectiveness

Factors Favoring Replacement

1. **Multiple recent repairs:** Sign of declining reliability 2. **Obsolete parts:** Older models may have discontinued parts 3. **Energy inefficiency:** New models use significantly less energy 4. **Frequent breakdowns:** Reliability is compromised 5. **Major component failure:** Compressors, motors, control boards on old units

Energy Savings to Consider

A new Energy Star refrigerator uses about 40% less energy than a 10-year-old model. Over 10 years, that's $500+ in savings - factor this into your decision!

Getting an Expert Opinion

Before deciding, get a professional diagnosis. A qualified technician can tell you exactly what's wrong, the repair cost, and whether other issues are likely. At **OC Appliance Repair**, we provide honest assessments and never push unnecessary repairs.

**Need a diagnosis?** Call (949) 979-4880 for transparent, expert advice on your appliance!