Repair or Replace?

The Real Cost of Replacing an Appliance

When an appliance breaks down, many homeowners assume replacement is the safer or more economical choice — especially if the appliance is several years old. But what’s often overlooked is how much life the appliance may still have and the true cost of replacement beyond the sticker price.

How Long Appliances Are Designed to Last

According to Consumer Reports reliability surveys, the average expected lifespan of major appliances is:

• Clothes washer: ~10 years

• Clothes dryer: ~10–12 years

• Dishwasher: ~10 years

• Refrigerator: ~10 years

• Range / Oven: ~13–15 years

• Microwave: ~9 years

These numbers represent averages — meaning many appliances still have years of usable life left when a repair is needed.

What Replacement Really Costs (Beyond the Appliance Price)

Based on pricing from major national retailers, homeowners typically spend hundreds of dollars more than expected on replacement-related costs alone:

• Washers / Electric ranges: $125–$150

• Gas appliances: $200–$300+

• Dishwashers, cooktops, wall ovens, built-ins: $300–$400+

These costs often include:

• Delivery fees

• Mandatory installation kits (cords, hoses, gas connectors, venting)

• Installation labor

• Haul-away or recycling fees

In many cases, these additional costs approach or exceed the cost of a professional repair.

Why Repair Often Makes Sense

If an appliance is:

• Within its average life expectancy

• Structurally sound

• Repairable with available parts

A professional repair can:

• Extend the appliance’s life by several years

• Avoid replacement-related expenses

• Reduce downtime and scheduling delays

Our Repair Advantage

At Arrowhead Appliance Repair, we stand behind our work:

• ✅ Unlimited FREE service calls on the repaired appliance for 1 full year

• ✅ 50% off service calls on the same appliance during year two

• ✅ No repeat diagnostic fees

• ✅ Long-term peace of mind

This allows homeowners to repair with confidence — not guess whether the repair was “worth it.”

The Bottom Line

Replacing an appliance isn’t always the cheaper or smarter choice — especially when installation and accessory costs are factored in. Understanding average appliance lifespan and true replacement costs can help homeowners make a more informed decision.

If you’re unsure whether repair or replacement makes sense, a professional evaluation can often save hundreds of dollars.