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Repair or Buy: How to Decide Whether to Fix Your Appliances
There’s a time in the lifespan of every appliance when
you’re forced to ask that dreaded question: Is it really worth fixing?
While ultimately that decision is between you and your dryer or
dishwasher or hot water heater, there are a few ways to determine if a
quick call to the repairman is better than dipping into savings.
- How old is the appliance? Most major
appliances are designed to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. While no
guarantee that your appliance is going to last that long, if the
equipment is far below its life expectancy, you may want to consider
fixing. Even older machines may still have a lot of life left, but keep
in mind that parts may become harder to find in the future.
- How much will it cost to fix? The
repairman’s rule of thumb is that if repairs will cost more than half
of the cost of a new appliance, go for the new one. But when
considering the costs, remember that the new appliance cost soars above
the sticker price when you add on delivery, installation and removal
of your old appliance. It’s not uncommon to pay $100 or more for
installation. On the other hand, remember that new, energy-saving
models can help recoup the investment of a new machine in utility bills.
- Are the new models made as well as your old one? Modern
appliances are decked out with innumerable gadgets and features. And
while the leading technology can make appliances even more convenient,
it can also amount to a costly and intricate repair. If your simple and
older appliance can still do the trick, it may be worth the TLC to get
a few more years out of it. By the time you are ready to buy,
manufacturers will have worked out any kinks in that cutting-edge
technology
- Can you repair it yourself? Naturally,
some jobs are best left to professionals—any time you smell gas, for
instance. But many fixes don’t require a repairman. Check pilot lights
and fuse boxes. Clean vents and coils of dust and debris. Replace belts
and unclog blockages. Home improvement stores offer classes in
do-it-yourself home repair and there are how-to resources online. If
you do call a repairman, be sure to get a warranty for the work.
Appliance,
AC and Heating Repair Spokane
We are open
24 hours a day 7 days a week. We provide Major Appliance Repair, Air
Conditioning/Heating, Refrigerator Repair, Washer Repair, Dryer Repair, Oven
Repair, Stove Repair, Dishwasher and Disposal Repair. We operate in entire
Spokane and Coeur d’Alene and our service call is free with the repair.
Call us: 509 207-7138
http://www.spokanewaappliancerepair.com
<a href="http://www.spokanewaappliancerepair.com">Spokane Appliance
Repair</a>
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