You are in the middle of heating your straight-out-of-the-refrigerator food in the microwave oven, and all of a sudden, it stops working, and you can smell the burning components from even a few feet away. The first thought that comes to your mind in such instances is, “It’s fried. I need to get a new microwave.” More often than people realize, you’d be surprised how many times you only need to replace the damaged component of the appliance, or even better, just repair the same component, and you are good to go.
Why The Sudden Breakdown of Appliances is Common in America
You are not alone when you experience a sudden breakdown of one of your electronic appliances. In fact, everyone in America has experienced or seen this problem at least once in their life. But why exactly is it so common? Here are a few reasons:
- Neglecting maintenance
- Improper use
- Design flaws
- Electrical issues
The good news about these issues is that they are fixable most of the time, unless it is one of those select few moments when you need to replace your appliance with a new one.
Signs You Should Repair Your Appliance
When it comes to repairing your appliance, everyone knows the obvious minor signs. These might include issues like a malfunctioning display in case of ovens, a sightly malfunctioning washing machine knob, refrigerator not cooling enough, lose wire, or a faulty switch. But there are certain fixes when people think replacing is better when a simple repair can do the job, and although the criteria changes from appliance to appliance, here are some general rules to follow:
Repair Costs Less Than Half the Replacement
As long as the repair costs less than half of the replacement cost, repair is the better option. This is a rule of thumb followed by many people for any type of repair, especially appliance repair.
Parts Are Still Available
Another easy criterion is that the parts are easily available in the aftermarket. The appliance is not worth your hassle if you cannot find the parts easily.
High-End or Built-In Models
Some appliances are custom-fit or top-tier brands. Replacing them can cost way more than a basic fix.
Relatively New Appliance
Appliances under 8–10 years old are often worth fixing, especially if they’ve been running well otherwise. You don’t want to spend extra dollars on a new machine.
When It’s Better to Replace the Appliance
If a faulty appliance means it is better to repair than to replace it, it doesn’t mean a repair can fix the problem every time. There are certain instances when repair seems the likely solution, but the appliance needs replacement. These issues are discussed as follows:
Past The Expected Lifespan
If your appliance has spent more than its expected life and is then experiencing issues, it is a sign that it needs to be replaced. Repair could work, but if issues keep recurring, it is better to replace.
Repeated Breakdowns in a Short Span
Repeated breakdowns in a short span are an appliance’s way of saying it has served its time. It’s better to move on than to repair the machine.
Repair Costing Near The Replacement Price
If the repairs are costing near, equal to, or more than the appliance’s price, the appliance needs to be replaced
Poor Energy Efficiency
Even if the appliance is working the way it is supposed to work, poor efficiency can cost a lot on the electric bill. It is better to replace if you want an energy-efficient machine.
Safety Concerns
Frequent burning smell, shocks, or electrical risks are issues that pose a safety threat and could cause serious injuries or even death. If any of such issues occur, discard the appliance and buy a new one.
What to Look for in an Appliance Repairer
Although repair is the better solution most of the time, people think they should replace the appliance, mostly because of a vast number of unauthorized technicians in the market. Looking for a trustworthy appliance repairer is the number one priority for all of the people in need of the service, so here are the key points you should look for in an appliance repairer:
- Service quality
- Appliance warranty
- Cost of repair
- Customer reviews
- Expertise and certifications
Get Professional Help if You Are Still Not Sure
Every appliance issue is different, but there are general guidelines to follow so you know better if your appliance needs to be fixed or if it needs replacement. What looks like a disaster might just need a small component replaced. On the flip side, what seems fixable might not be worth the investment. But if you are still not sure, get professional help from a trusted repairer like City Star Appliance Repair LLC to guide you.
