When your washing machine breaks down, you’re faced with a difficult decision – should you repair it or replace it entirely? While the upfront cost of a repair may seem lower, there are several hidden costs to consider that might make replacement the better long-term choice.
The Hidden Costs of Repairs
- Service Call Fees: Many repair companies charge 50−50−100 just to diagnose the problem
- Parts Markups: Repair technicians often charge 100-200% markup on replacement parts
- Labor Costs: Hourly rates for appliance repair typically range from 75−75−150/hour
- Downtime: Waiting for parts and repairs means trips to the laundromat (costing 20−20−40 per visit)
- Future Breakdowns: An older machine that’s had one repair is likely to need others soon
- Energy Inefficiency: Older machines use significantly more water and electricity (costing 50−50−100+ more annually)
When to Repair
Consider repair if:
- The machine is under 5 years old
- The repair cost is less than 50% of a new machine’s price
- It’s a simple fix (like a door latch or drain pump)
- You have a warranty or service contract covering the repair
When to Replace
Replacement usually makes more sense when:
- The repair would cost more than half the price of a new machine
- Your washer is 8-10+ years old
- You’ve had multiple repairs in the past 2 years
- The machine is inefficient (look for ENERGY STAR models that use 25% less energy and 33% less water)
- You want upgraded features (larger capacity, steam cleaning, smart connectivity)
Cost Comparison Example
For a 9-year-old washing machine needing a $400 repair:
- Repair option: 400now,pluslikelyanother400now,pluslikelyanother300-$600 in repairs over next 2-3 years
- Replace option: 700−700−1,200 for new efficient model with warranty, saving $75+/year in utilities
In this case, replacement often proves more economical within 3-4 years.