Whether tis nobler to repair what may have cost you an outrageous fortune or to take arms against compressor troubles and by calling the Junk Guys end them.
As Easter is upon us you may be thinking about purchasing a couple of turkeys on sale to have on hand for later. Easter, turkey, freezer, is that aging fridge or freezer going to make it until next Easter? Is it better to replace it now than have it die during a heat wave this August? If you have been considering replacing an aging appliance, now may be as good a time as any. Previous year’s models that didn’t get sold during either black Friday or Boxing Week sales are taking up space in warehouses and show rooms. So if you don’t have to have matching appliances, or the very latest style, you are in a position to save money on a new appliance.
Before you get your heart set on a new appliance however, consider whether you are better off repairing or replacing. Repairs can be rather expensive, especially when you’re dealing with a large appliance like a washer, dryer, dishwasher, or refrigerator. It is important to carefully compare and contrast the cost of purchasing a new appliance versus having it repaired – maybe more than once.
If you have an appliance repair technician you trust, it is particularly helpful if you can provide the make and model as well as a brief history of the appliance. An ethical and experienced technician can weigh the pros and cons for you and help guide you in your decision making. There are also online forums that can be excellent sources of information. If you educate yourself a little bit, you can avoid breaking your wallet on a repair or replacement that is overpriced or non-essential.
When to Repair an Appliance
If you have recently invested a great deal of money in a new appliance, and it begins to act up, a repair may be the best option. Old appliances in need of repair may require specialized parts, and in many cases, it may be better to purchase a new dishwasher or refrigerator rather than getting your old one repaired. If you receive a price quote for a repair, compare it to the price of replacement options to see what’s right for you. Also, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion on a repair to ensure you’re getting the best price possible. Most reputable appliance repair technicians use the National Major Appliance Price Guide and repairs are done on a flat-rate basis rather than by the hour.
When to Buy New
When the price of replacement parts and labour seems too high or your appliance is reaching the end of its life, it’s probably best to purchase a new one. You get up-to-date technology as well as the manufacturer’s warranty. If your appliance has broken down or had repeat problems in the past, it may indicate that it is reaching the end of its lifespan. Replacing your old refrigerator or dishwasher with an Energy Star alternative is a great option. In general, Energy Star appliances are more efficient and can save you money on utility costs in the long run, which further compensates you for the investment. But this isn’t always the case. Sometimes for example, an older freezer can be more energy efficient than a new one. Older freezers, while having larger compressors requiring more electricity to run, are very well insulated and may run less frequently than newer, lighter models. However, no appliance is designed to operate forever and eventually all of them need to be replaced.
Ask a Professional
If you are uncertain about appliance repair or getting it replaced, contact one or more local professionals for advice. Receiving several quotes on repair or new installations is also a very good idea. If you end up requiring a repair or new installation, an expert will be able to ensure everything is working properly, so it is important to communicate with an experienced technician you know and trust.
Appliance repair or replacement can both be expensive investments. By knowing when to repair an appliance, purchase a new one or defer to expert advice, it becomes much easier to avoid wasting money on unnecessary repairs or replacements.
Because you appreciate premium information such as this, join now and become a member of our Newsletter Insiders … up-to-date information on appliances that you can use!