Should You Repair or Replace Your Broken Appliance? 3 Questions to Answer to Make That Decision
The dreaded moment when an appliance stops working can leave your head swimming with questions. Foremost is probably “What’s wrong?,” but this is followed quickly by the question of whether to repair or replace an appliance. These questions will help you decide.
Is It Really Broken?
It’s easy to jump to the worst possible conclusion when an important appliance stops working, but the first thing you should do is calmly assess the situation to see how bad it really is. You may find that you don’t need to repair or replace an appliance; it may just need a little TLC. Perform some basic maintenance tasks to see if you can revive the appliance yourself. This includes checking breakers, making sure the appliance is plugged in, and cleaning vents or filters.
Is It Still Under Warranty?
Refer to your owner’s manual and read the fine print on its warranty. If the appliance is still under warranty, you’re in luck. Schedule a visit from a licensed technician to have the issue addressed.
Is It at the End of Its Useful Life?
If your appliance is truly broken and past its warranty, it’s time to decide whether you should repair it or opt for a replacement. Do some research to find out the typical life span for the appliance. If you’re nearing the end, you may find that this repair is simply followed by another and another until the machine is no longer operable at all.
If your machine still has a long useful life, compare the cost of the repair with the cost of a replacement. Don’t forget to factor in money savings from upgrading to a more energy efficient appliance. If you can repair your appliance affordably, this is probably the best option. However, if you’re facing a costly repair, it may be time to start over.
To learn more about appliance care, repair and upgrades, contact us at Apollo Home Heating, Cooling and Plumbing. We proudly serve the greater Cincinnati area.
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