When an appliance breaks down, the first question is usually: is it worth fixing, or should I just replace it? It’s a fair question — and the honest answer is that most everyday faults are worth repairing, but not all of them. Here’s how to think it through before you spend money either way.
A simple rule of thumb
A common guideline is the “50% rule”: if a repair costs more than about half the price of a comparable new appliance, and the unit is already well into its expected lifespan, replacement starts to make sense. If the repair is well under that — which it often is — fixing it is usually the smarter, cheaper and more sustainable choice.
When repair is the clear winner
- The fault is a common, well-priced part — an element, thermostat, pump, belt, seal, fan or control switch.
- The appliance is a good-quality brand and not near the end of its life.
- It’s the first significant fault the appliance has had.
- Replacement would mean cabinetry or installation costs (common with built-in ovens, cooktops and dishwashers).
When replacement may make more sense
- The appliance is very old and this is one of several faults.
- The failed part is a major, expensive component on an otherwise budget appliance — for example, a compressor in a cheap fridge.
- Running costs are high because the unit is inefficient or its seals are worn.
- Parts for the model are no longer available.
A quick guide by appliance
Fridges & freezers: fan, thermostat, defrost and seal faults are very repairable; a failed compressor on an old or budget unit is where replacement enters the picture.
Ovens & cooktops: elements and thermostats are common, affordable fixes — and because so many are built in, repair usually beats the cost and hassle of replacing.
Washing machines & dryers: pumps, belts, door locks and elements are worth fixing; worn drum bearings on an old machine are a bigger job worth weighing up.
Dishwashers: drainage, spray-arm and heating faults are usually cheap repairs relative to buying and installing a new one.
How we help you decide
We diagnose the fault on site and quote the repair before doing any work — so you can make the call with real numbers in front of you. And if fixing it isn’t worth it, we’ll tell you straight rather than sell you a repair that doesn’t stack up.
Not sure which way to go? Call 0418 811 808 or see our pricing and same-day repairs across Canberra.
Related questions
How old is too old for an appliance repair?
There’s no hard number, but once an appliance is past its typical lifespan and facing a costly repair, replacement becomes worth considering. A single common fault on an otherwise sound appliance is usually still worth fixing.
Will you tell me honestly if it’s not worth repairing?
Yes. We’d rather give you honest advice — including “replace it” when that’s the better value — than sell you a repair you don’t need.