The Short Answer
Use the 50% rule: if the repair costs less than half the price of a comparable new appliance, and the appliance is still well within its normal lifespan, repairing is usually the smarter choice. For premium built-ins, newer units and appliances with a simple fix, repair often makes sense even when the numbers are closer.
How the 50% Rule Works
Take the repair quote and compare it to the price of a similar new appliance, including delivery and installation. If the repair is less than half that total, fixing it is usually the better value.
Example
A new refrigerator like yours costs about $2,000 installed. Your repair quote is $350. That's well under half, so repairing makes sense, as long as the fridge isn't near the end of its life.
Don't forget the hidden costs of replacing: delivery, removal of the old unit, new water lines or cords, and sometimes cabinet or trim work for built-ins.
How Long Appliances Usually Last
Age matters as much as cost. Lifespans vary by brand, use and care, but these real-world ranges reported by one industry guide are a helpful starting point.
| Appliance | Typical Lifespan |
|---|---|
| Top-mount refrigerator | 15–20 years |
| French-door refrigerator | 12–15 years |
| Top-load washer | 12–14 years |
| Front-load washer | 10–13 years |
| Gas or electric dryer | 13–15 years |
| Dishwasher | 10–13 years |
| Gas range | 15–20 years |
| Built-in microwave | 9–12 years |
Heavy use, coastal salt air and skipped maintenance can shorten these numbers. Built-in luxury brands are often designed to last longer.
When the 50% Rule Doesn't Fit
Premium and built-in appliances
Built-ins from brands like Sub-Zero, Wolf and Miele cost far more to replace, often with cabinet work. A lower threshold makes sense, and repair is usually worth it.
Nearly new appliances
If it's under about five years old, repair is almost always the right call unless the damage is severe.
One failure that signals more
Some repairs hint at bigger problems coming, like a failing front-load washer bearing. A cheap fix today may not be the end of it.
Parts no longer made
If genuine parts aren't available and the appliance is near the end of its life, replacing may be wiser.
Very old, inefficient units
Older refrigerators and freezers can use much more electricity than new ones. Add that cost when you compare.
Not sure which way to go? Our technicians give you an honest repair price first, so you can compare before you decide.
(650) 491-1179A Quick Decision Checklist
Lean toward repair if
- The repair is under half the replacement cost.
- The appliance is less than about two-thirds through its typical life.
- It's a built-in or premium model.
- This is the first major repair.
- The fix is a common part like a fan, pump, switch or element.
Lean toward replacing if
- The repair is more than half the replacement cost.
- It's at or past its typical lifespan.
- It has needed several big repairs recently.
- Rust has spread through the cabinet, drum or tub.
- Parts are no longer available.
A Note for Coastal Homes
In Pacifica and along the Coastside, salt air and fog can age appliances faster. A unit that looks young on paper may have rusted parts or cracked seals. Read how salt air and fog damage appliances to see what to look for.
If you decide to replace, our appliance installation team can set up the new one. If you decide to repair, start with our appliance repair services.