Should you repair or replace an appliance?

With modern technologies appliances can cost more than a small vehicle. There are appliances that self-clean, self-cook, self-time, and even fold up your washing. Technology has made daily chores easier to manage and it is damn frustrating when your appliances don’t work as they should.

When an appliance is clanging and banging more than it should be you could look to take on your own electrical work. Often a good grease and oil change is all that is required.

Appliance repairs can get more complicated, especially when MacGyver would struggle with the repair job. For this scenario – mere mortals have no chance!

From fridges and washing machines to vacuums and man shed tools. From appliances that whip, snip, whizz and whirl, cook, clean or make you look beautiful.

Here are some guidelines to evaluate whether you should tackle your own appliance repair.

If it ain’t really broken…

When time poor and frustrated it is easy to miss the most obvious. Is it really broken? Before you get yourself in a tizz, there are a few things you need to check:

1. Is the appliance turned on? It is surprising how many people actually forget to check that the power is on.
2. Has the safety switch been triggered? Irons are renowned for triggering the safety switch when they are heating up. Check the electrical box to see if anything has been flicked over.
3. Are the vents and filters free from dust and cobwebs? Make sure that you clean your appliance filters regularly, including vacuuming out behind your fridge. This ensures the correct amount of airflow is available and that fans are given the chance to operate properly.
   Sometimes uneven flooring can hinder an appliance from working properly.

Is there a repair warranty in place?

A lot of new appliances offer a warranty for labour and parts, generally for a one-year minimum. Check your owner’s manual and purchase receipts. If it is still covered under warranty then schedule a service call.

Is it past its expiry date?

Like many things, appliances too have an expected lifespan. According to a National Association of Home Builders study out of the US, appliances generally last for:

• Air conditioner: 15 years
• Stove: 13 – 15 years
• Clothes dryer: 13 years
• Fridge: 13 years
• Washing machine: 10 years
• Microwave: 9 years
• Dishwasher: 9 years

Is it worth repairing?

A good rule of thumb is to follow a 50% rule. If your appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan and the repair cost is more than 50% of the price for a new item, then you should replace the item.

To DIY or not to DIY – that is the ultimate question

If you know the difference between a spanner and a wrench, a socket and a pocket, then you could consider tackling your own repairs.

But, if electrical work sends shockwaves through your system just thinking about – get an Airtasker to do your appliance repairs.