Depending on the issue, sometimes you can get away with repairing a kitchen appliance. And sometimes you can’t – and will need to purchase new major appliances.
As much as you may try to avoid it, all your kitchen appliances will eventually need to be replaced. The complexity of the issue and the age of your appliance will determine when the right time is to start shopping. Keep in mind that older appliances, which will no longer be covered by a warranty, will end up costing more money both in repairs and energy efficiency eventually.
Here are some other tips to keep in mind when deciding to repair or replace your kitchen appliances.
When to Replace a Refrigerator
With the average cost of a replacement fridge being $2,000, it’s understandable if you want to try repairing your fridge first before purchasing a new one. And depending on the model and the age of the refrigerator that you have, choosing to complete a repair (which averages $110-$325) may be best.
If you have a side-by-side refrigerator, consider replacing it if it’s more than five years old. For the bottom and top freezer models, only consider doing repairs if the appliance is less than seven years old.
Built-in refrigerators are normally worth replacing since a lot of work was involved with building it into your kitchen. Furthermore, you want to ensure your refrigerator is keeping your food cold, otherwise you run the risk of food poisoning.
The cost of a new fridge can range, with high energy efficient fridges costing more, and scratch-and-dent refrigerators that are working properly costing considerably less. If your refrigerator is a main focal point of your kitchen, a scratched up refrigerator may not be ideal. However, if your refrigerator is framed by cabinetry, you would not even notice any scratched surfaces that are on the sides.
When to Replace an Oven
Ovens last an average of 13-15 years, with gas models lasting longer than electric.
With an average replacement cost being $1,500, consider completing repairs (which cost around $110-$260) when the issue is something minor like adjusting the heating elements.
Remember to always keep your oven in excellent condition due to the risk of fire. You will also want to ensure your gas lines are up to code (if you have a gas fireplace) and you have proper venting.
If you are using a portable electrical hot plate for a temporary cooking solution while your new stove arrives, always follow proper safety procedures when operating it. The electrical element stays much hotter than a gas stove, so even if the hot plate is off, it still generates heat. Thus, you’ll want to make sure there are no flammable materials around it (oven mitts, paper towel, food packaging) by at least a meter. Unwatched pots and pans with cooking oil should be removed from the element as soon as you are finished with them as they can continue to spit out hot grease that could ignite a dish towel, curtain, or nearby newspaper.
When to Repair or Replace Your Dishwasher
In a lot of cases, a simple $100 – $300 repair can fix your dishwasher – which last an average of 9-15 years.
But if your dishwasher problem is something more complex like an electrical or leaking issue, you may want to consider replacing the appliance. If that’s the case for you, expect to pay around $600 to replace your dishwasher.
Be a Smart Appliance Shopper
Your kitchen appliances are used every single day. When they break down, not only is it an inconvenience, but you may feel rushed into making a new purchase.
Not being able to take the time to do your research and shop around could result in you making a poor purchasing decision. Avoid making a decision that you’ll regret by choosing good quality kitchen appliances that will last for years to come. With rising hydro prices in Ontario, it may also worth considering buying appliances that are Energy Star certified.
Kitchens Inc. can help you find a reputable store and product, which makes finding your next kitchen appliance easy! Contact our Kitchen Renovation Company today for more information. We are one of the best Kitchen renovation companies in Brantford, Ontario.