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Repair or Replace? How to Decide When Something Breaks

When something breaks out of warranty, the real question is whether to fix it or replace it. Here's a simple framework — and the numbers that should drive the decision.

The 50% rule

The most common guideline: if a repair costs more than half the price of a new equivalent, replacement usually makes more sense. A $400 repair on a $600 microwave rarely pays off; the same $400 repair on a $2,500 refrigerator often does.

Factor in the item's age and lifespan

Compare the item's age to its typical lifespan. A rule of thumb: if it's past roughly 75% of its expected life, lean toward replacing — you're likely to face more repairs soon. Rough lifespans: refrigerators 10–13 years, washers/dryers 10–13, dishwashers ~9–10, HVAC systems 15–20, water heaters 8–12.

Get a real diagnosis first

Don't decide blind. A technician's diagnosis tells you what actually failed and the true repair cost. Sometimes it's a cheap part; sometimes it's the compressor or control board (expensive, often tipping toward replacement). The diagnostic fee is usually worth it.

When repair usually wins

Recent purchase, expensive-to-replace item, minor/cheap part, and a model you're otherwise happy with. When replacement usually wins: old item, costly repair, repeated failures, or a meaningful efficiency upgrade available (newer HVAC and appliances can cut energy bills enough to matter).