Purchasing a refrigerator is not an easy ordeal. People spend days, weeks, or even months to save and shop around for a good investment. Despite extensive research, these appliances are bound to break down due to irresponsible handling or excessive use.
Once your refrigerator reaches the second phase of age, you should invest some time to comprehend if you should repair or replace the faulty fridge. Home appliance repair is one option, but buying a new one is another effective one. This guide will highlight some factors that will help you make an informed decision.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Appliance Repair or Replacement
A broken refrigerator is a huge inconvenience, but whether it should be repaired or replaced is still a question. Its final decision comes down to a number of factors.
Complexity of the Issue
Whether you should repair or replace a malfunctioning fridge significantly depends on the complexity of the issues. If the appliance is experiencing significant malfunctioning, such as improper cooling or electrical issues, you should consider replacing it. If it has minor issues, such as a water leak, you can call an expert technician to repair it.
Age of Refrigerator
The functional age of an appliance is the most important factor when it comes to deciding the repair or replacement of an appliance. For example, electrical and cooling machines last around 10 to 15 years, while dishwashers and microwaves may last only 10 to 12 years.
You should keep the average lifespan of appliances in mind. If the fridge is in the second phase of its age, it is suggested that it be replaced with a newer and more energy-efficient model.
Cost of Repair
Evaluating fridge repair costs is a defining factor that helps make an informed decision. A common thumb rule is that if the cost of repair exceeds 50% of the price of a new appliance, it is better to replace it. Anyhow, this rule can be adjusted by evaluating the age and condition of the appliance.
In case your fridge requires multiple repairs over a short period, replacing it will be an effective decision. Constantly pouring money into defective appliances can drain resources as well as patience.
Energy Efficiency of Refrigerator
The energy efficiency of the fridge is a significant factor in deciding whether you should repair or replace the appliance. Energy efficient refrigerator can save you money on utility bills with time. On the other hand, if your current appliance is less efficient, replacing it with a new one will be a better long-term investment.
Replacing an appliance gives you an opportunity to upgrade to an energy-efficient model that reduces your footprint. Moreover, you can also consider the environmental cost of manufacturing a new appliance versus the material and energy required for repair parts.
Performance and Reliability
If the performance of the fridge has significantly declined, then there is no point in repairing it. Replacing it in the first place is necessary to ensure reliability and efficiency. Moreover, appliances with electrical issues, gas leaks, and other safety hazards break down frequently after repair, posing a great risk to well-being.
You should replace them immediately to prevent accidents and health risks. Your safety should always be a top-notch priority when evaluating whether to repair or replace an appliance.
Advantages of Repairing The Refrigerator
Repairing your trusty appliance instead of replacing it can be a budget-friendly and environment-friendly solution. Here are some reasons why you should prefer repairs.
Familiarity and comfort: You become used to using an appliance. Repairing it keeps your home routine intact without sparing time to learn new features.
Cost-effective: Refrigerator repair costs are always significantly lower than buying a brand-new appliance. Even if the fault seems major, fixing it can extend the refrigerator lifespan.
Quality parts: Entrusting repair to qualified technicians revives the performance of appliances by replacing malfunctioning parts with quality ones. You do not need to worry about shoddy replacements when your appliances are in good hands.
Environment-friendly: Opting for repair reduces electronic waste and lessens carbon footprints.
Is Replacing Appliances Worth the Investment?
Sometimes repairing helps, but there are instances when you get the signs to replace it. You can enjoy the following benefits with fridge replacement.
Energy efficiency: Newer appliances are more energy efficient and significantly reduce the cost of bills.
Latest technology: New designs have advanced features that make life more easy.
Lower running cost: Replaced fridges do not break down frequently, making them easier and wallet-friendly to run.
Final Words
While making a decision if you should repair or replace an appliance, consider if the appliance is still under warranty or covered by a service plan. Moreover, for minor issues, you should repair the fridge, whereas consider replacing an old appliance.
Are you unable to make a decision? Call Mr Equity Appliance for the best services. Our skilled technicians assess your appliance and suggest if replacing or repairing should be your choice. Contact us today to make an informed decision about your appliance.
FAQs
When should you replace a fridge?
Most refrigerators are designed to last from ten to twelve years. After that, if the fridge breaks down, consider replacing it with a new one.
What is the lifespan of a fridge?
A typical lifespan of a fridge ranges from 10 to 15 hours. If your appliance is in the first half range, you have half an opportunity to repair it without escalating the damage.
What is the most common problem with refrigerators?
The most common fridge issue is insufficient cooling. It disrupts the complete function of the appliance and requires immediate attention to revive functionality.