When your appliance is old and isn’t working, it’s easier to let it “rest in peace” than to repair it. But not when it breaks before time. The decision to repair or replace becomes a tricky one.
If you are tight on your budget, you may want to just repair it and hope for the best, but in a good month, replacing it with a new energy-efficient machine isn’t a big deal and is usually the best option.
However, with all said, most people find themselves in the repair-or-replace dilemma. This article seeks to outline:
- Advantages of repairing and replacing;
- Questions on whether to replace or repair;
- What saves you money; and
- The safest way during the Covid-19 season.
Advantages of Repairing
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Repairing is cost-effective
It is a better decision to repair appliances than to replace them. Why would you want to spend $100 to replace a faucet when all you need to replace is the washer?
Again, you want to reduce the carbon footprint, and thus repairing an appliance is less wasteful than replacing it. If you decide to replace the faucet, you have to spend more on disposal, and it takes lots of space in the landfill.
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Repairing cuts on environmental costs
Every time you replace a metallic part in an appliance, you should remember the damage done when mining, the energy used in manufacturing, shipping, and storage. So repairing would mean that you use less material and energy.
Advantages of Replacing
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A new item is in better shape
The old appliance has so many parts that are wearing off, and others are covered with grime. Thus you may have to keep repairing it every other time. A new one will be in better shape, and the cost of maintenance will be low.
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Replacing solves the problem permanently.
If you were repairing a broken faucet, it might not take long before it wears off and you have to pay for another repair. Replacing the entire thing will save you the cost and the inconvenience.
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You have an opportunity to acquire an advanced appliance
There are always new models coming to the market, and replacing your old item is an opportunity to get a more advanced one. For example, you can consider the services of a company like Fighting Chance to secure your doors with their advanced home security features. They will serve and protect your home so you can stay safe while relaxing with your family.
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Replacing is less work
You can imagine calling the contractor miles away to come and fix your broken appliance with the Covid-19 restriction; it can be costly and time-wasting. Getting your dishwasher replaced will only take a few hours, and you have it at your doorstep.
Questions to ask when repairing or replacing
Both Repairing and replacing have their perks, but the problem is how to figure out the best option. The following questions will help you make the best decision.
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How hard is it to repair?
Before you call in the technician, you need to scan through your machine, it could be just a loose bolt that needs tightening.
On the other hand, some appliances are complicated and dangerous to fix. Weigh between calling a technician and replacing the whole thing.
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How are the costs for each?
Depending on how complicated the appliance is, you can assess the level of damage and the approximate costs of repair and replacement. Then you can make the right decision.
According to consumer reports, 49% of consumers say it is more costly to replace a gadget that has been repaired less than two times. Thus repair may be the best option.
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How worn out is it?
Will repairing your item prolong its life, or it’s just a waste of time and resources. There is no need to fix an appliance that will be replaced in a few months- you’d better replace it.
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What is safe, repairing, or replacement in your area and locality?
With Covid-19, the movement has become an issue with some cities and states under lockdown. The rate of infection in your area will determine whether you replace or repair. With repair, you may need someone to move, and this can be costly. Thus replacement may be a better option for you.
The question of whether to repair or replace your appliance will depend on many factors. Think about the cost of both and go with the less costly. Replacing an item will allow you to get a more advanced one.
If the level of damage is minimal and you are in an area with no tight Covid-19 restrictions on movement, then a repair will work perfectly.
