There are several reasons and signs that it’s time to replace your old appliance. Sometimes, you just have to draw a line. Noting their symptoms gives you a better chance at shopping early before the unit fails altogether.
No More Parts
Over the life time of the appliance, many issues can be resolved by simply ordering replacement parts for the appliance. However, manufacturers only supply appliance parts for a certain amount of years. Once they run out of stock, it’s nearly impossible to find proper parts to adequately fix the unit. If you do find parts, such as through an auction site, they are often overpriced and possibly used. When you cannot find parts, it’s time to replace the unit. Using improper parts can make the appliance work unsafely or not at all.
When Energy Efficiency Is Null
These days energy efficient technology is incorporated into every appliance that goes out on the market. Older appliances typically have poor energy conservation because of their simply designed internal components. If you see your energy bill skyrocketing, especially for an appliance that is used almost daily, calculate your savings with a newly purchased unit. The money you save on energy alone could pay for the new unit’s purchase price. Extending the life of an older appliance only costs you more money in the long run.
Excessive Repair Cost
When a professional is necessary for a repair, you must add in the necessary labor to complete the job. For some repairs, the cost is more than a new unit. Ask for a quote before the repair is actually started. When they list parts, tax and labor, compare it to a new appliance. If the repair cost is more than half the cost of the new product, it’s worth the money to splurge on the new appliance.
Warranty Expired
If your warranty has expired, especially if you selected an extended policy, it could be time to upgrade your appliance. Any manufacturer defects should have been addressed within the warranty period. When the unit breaks after the warranty period, it could be a large internal system that is just worn down. This large part could cost hundreds of dollars. A new unit is a better choice.
Passed Its Estimated Lifespan
Consider the appliance’s estimated lifespan when comparing repairs to replacements. If your water heater is 15 years old, for example, you want to replace it before it has flood potential from corrosion cracks. Any unusual sounds from appliances should be addressed before they become big problems as well. You avoid home damage from possible major appliance malfunctions.
Here is a list of some common appliances and their expected lifespan (given proper maintenance):
- Dishwasher – 10 to 15 years
- Refrigerator and Freezer – 10 to 15 years
- Washer, Dryer – 10 to 15 years
- Ovens, Ranges – 10 to 20 years
- Water Heater – 10 to 20 years
- Central A/C Units – 15 to 20 years
This article was written with help from First Coast Supply. If it’s time to get a new appliance for your home or apartment, First Coast will conveniently deliver and install appliances with your purchase.
|__________________________________________________________|
home remodeling surprise
find out where it might go - new win
Helpful article? Leave us a quick comment below.
And please share this article within your social networks.
