Appliances: When to Fix, When to Replace, and How to Keep Them Running

Got a noisy fridge, a stubborn oven, or a fan that won’t spin? You don’t need to panic. Most household appliances have simple fixes, and even the ones that need a professional can be judged for cost‑effectiveness before you book a engineer.

Quick checks before you call a pro

First thing – unplug the appliance and look for obvious problems. A clogged filter in a kitchen extractor fan or a blocked lint trap in a dryer can cause the whole unit to act up. Clean those parts, run the appliance again, and you’ve saved a callout fee. For water heaters, a build‑up of sediment can lower efficiency; a quick flush can extend its life by years.

If the issue is electrical – a tripped breaker, a blown fuse or a loose plug – reset or replace the component. Always turn the breaker off before you tinker; safety first keeps you from a bigger repair later.

When repair makes sense

Appliances with a long lifespan, like boilers, pressure cookers or well‑built fridges, often deserve a repair if the fault is minor. A faulty oven heating element, for example, usually costs a fraction of a new oven. Same with a broken dishwasher pump – a small part replacement can bring the whole unit back to life.

Age matters, too. A 7‑year‑old washing machine that’s leaking can often be fixed for less than a brand‑new one, especially if the motor or pump is the culprit. Look at the repair cost versus the expected remaining years of service. If you’re spending more than half the price of a new model, it’s time to think replacement.

For appliances that run on gas, like boilers or water heaters, regular servicing is essential. Skipping an annual check can lead to higher bills, safety risks, and expensive breakdowns. A simple service can catch corrosion, pressure issues, or worn seals before they turn into costly repairs.

In the end, the rule of thumb is: if the repair is under 30 % of a new unit’s price and the appliance is less than half its typical lifespan, fix it. Otherwise, replace.

Remember, keeping appliances clean, checking filters, and doing a yearly service are the cheapest ways to avoid big headaches. A little routine maintenance now means fewer emergency calls later.

Need more details? Our blog covers everything from extractor fan maintenance, boiler lifespan, and how to tell if a heat pump should be replaced. Use those guides to decide the best move for each appliance in your home.