One of the most common questions we hear: "Should I repair this or just buy a new one?" It's a fair question, and the honest answer depends on a few concrete factors — not gut feeling.
The 50% Rule
The most widely cited guideline in appliance repair: if the repair cost exceeds 50% of the cost of a new replacement appliance, lean toward replacing. If the repair is under 50%, repair is almost always the better financial decision.
Typical Appliance Lifespans
| Appliance | Average Lifespan | Repair Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 13–17 years | Repair if under 8 years old |
| Washer | 10–14 years | Repair if under 7 years old |
| Dryer | 13–15 years | Repair if under 8 years old |
| Dishwasher | 9–12 years | Repair if under 6 years old |
| Oven / Range | 15–17 years | Repair almost always worth it |
Repair Cost vs Replacement Cost in Boston
New appliances in Greater Boston carry additional delivery, installation, and disposal costs. Budget $100–200 for delivery and haul-away on top of the appliance price. This shifts the repair vs replace math slightly in favor of repair more often than people expect.
When to Always Replace
Regardless of age or repair cost, replace when: the compressor on a refrigerator has completely failed (compressor cost often exceeds appliance value), there's significant structural rust on a washer drum, or the repair requires a discontinued part that cannot be sourced.
When to Almost Always Repair
Single-component failures on machines under 8 years old — a heating element, a door latch, a drain pump, a thermostat — are almost always worth repairing. These are typically $150–$350 jobs on machines with years of useful life remaining.
Get a Diagnostic First
You can't make a good repair vs replace decision without knowing what's actually wrong. Our technicians provide an upfront estimate before any work begins — you're never committed until you approve the repair.