How to Know When to Replace Major Appliances

Households rely on major appliances such as fridges, dryers, and dishwashers. When a large, essential appliance fails to perform well, homeowners might wonder if they should call for a replacement or repairs. Unfortunately, this decision often generates stress because the household needs the services of a working appliance fast. Find out how long major appliances typically last and how to tell if it’s time for a new one.

According to Architectural Digest, this list provides average lifespans for common appliances:

As a general rule of thumb, strongly consider replacing the appliance if it’s close to or past its typical lifespan. Sure, Grandma probably had the same fridge for 30 years, and sometimes appliances continue to function far longer than expected.

However, today’s newer models generally work more efficiently. So replacing the machine may save on future repair bills and energy costs. In addition, new features on the latest models might also save time or offer value in other ways.

Beyond deciding based only upon the appliance’s age, consider several other important factors. For instance, balance the repair costs and the likelihood of needing future repairs against replacement costs. If the appliance has already required repairs in the past, there’s no guarantee that this problem will be the last one.

Think about the possible convenience, advanced features, and energy savings of a new appliance. For example, the family may have outgrown the fridge anyway, so a larger one could encourage buying healthy food and eating at home more, possibly improving health and recouping the cost of the replacement fridge in a few months.

If the appliance’s problem seems obvious, call around or look online to obtain some repair estimates. For instance, HomeAdvisor says it might only cost $100 to replace a refrigerator’s thermostat. On the other hand, getting a compressor replaced by a professional might cost as much as $650. Many affordable refrigerators don’t cost much more than that brand new.

Sometimes, a repair technician might need to pay a visit to diagnose the issue, and many repair services will charge for a home visit even if they don’t fix anything. Some retailers also provide repair services, and very often, they will credit the service visit fee towards the cost of a new appliance. Since the fridge needs fixing or replacing, a deal like that could prove economical.

An extended warranty for major appliances from Upsie will ensure prompt access to certified repair technicians. Upsie’s network of certified repair technicians will visit the home and make repairs without charging any fees or deductibles. Even better, Upsie offers 24-7 claims by phone, and these live representatives will help customers make claims and schedule prompt service.

Since the owner already has their appliance repair conveniently covered, they will be more likely to choose repairs over quick replacements. On the positive side, Upsie will replace covered appliances if repairs won’t prove feasible on the first claim.

Upsie offers high-quality coverage for up to 70 percent less than other warranty companies. Upsie also gives customers up to 11 months to register their warranties, so you need need to make a quick decision at the time of purchase.

Besides small and large appliances, Upsie also offers protection plans for various electronics, outdoor gear, and fitness machines.