When is an Appliance Too Old to Justify a Major Repair?

When determining if an appliance is too old for a major repair, we recommend using the 50% rule. This industry-standard guideline suggests that if the estimated repair cost exceeds half the price of a comparable new model, replacement is generally the smarter financial investment.

Age plays a critical role in this decision because appliances nearing the end of their expected lifespan are more prone to subsequent failures. Typical lifespans for home appliances include:

• Dishwashers and Microwaves: 9–10 years
• Washers: 10–13 years
• Dryers and Oven/Ranges: 13–15 years
• Refrigerators: 10–18 years

If your unit is older than these benchmarks, modern energy-efficiency gains and the risk of discontinued parts often tip the scale toward replacement. However, for high-end brands or units under five years old, a repair is often the better value.

As your neighbors, we provide Transparent Pricing with upfront, written estimates so you can apply the 50% rule accurately. Our Certified Technicians perform thorough diagnostics to evaluate long-term reliability before any work begins.

Estimates are subject to on-site diagnostic and parts availability. Results may vary based on appliance condition; warranty terms vary by repair — contact us for details.

• Repair vs Replace Appliances: 50% Rule Explained