The clinic suggests considering the following questions to help you decide to replace or repair your appliance. If a repair will cost more than half the cost of a new appliance, and the old unit is more than six or seven years old, consider replacing it. Otherwise, pay for a second similar repair and you've just shelled out the cost of a new appliance. Some major appliances don't cost what they did 10 years ago. Check new prices.
Fees can add up and tip the scales back to a decision to keep the old appliance.
Consider those costs as well. Factor in energy savings available from new appliances. New Energy Star rated refrigerators, freezers, front-load washers and dishwashers can save significant energy and related utility costs. A dishwasher with five automatic cycles isn't as valuable to you if you use only three, the clinic advises. For more articles by Broderick Perkins, please press here .