Washing Washer Troubleshooting Tips: When Do I Repair, and When Do I Replace?
by Guest Post on Nov 19, 2013
Imagine that it's late in the evening, and you're getting ready to put a load of laundry into your washer. Your washer is a few years old, but it's still going strong. You load the clothes, add detergent, turn it on and....nothing. The washer isn't agitating. You are unable to locate the issue and decide another remedy is required. Do you hire a professional to fix it, or should you just buy a new one?
Many people will tell you that a repair will almost always be the cheaper option. This is not always the case, and the reason is due to declining appliance costs. Basic appliances are getting cheaper and cheaper, more efficient, and more inclusive. A new high-quality washer, for example, generally costs between £250 – £500. Depending on what broke on your washer, fixes can be very cheap or cost hundreds and hundreds in parts and labor.
Therefore, try to assess for yourself what broke and then look at some washer prices and washing machine review websites that supplies authentic, comprehensive reviews of washing machines. Once you have a good feel for the cost of repair versus a new machine, you can make an educated decision that you can be confident in. As a general rule, industry professionals say to opt for a replacement if repair costs exceed 40 or 50% of your machine's original cost.
You should opt for a new washer if:
- Your current appliance is old, inefficient, or broken beyond reasonable repair. It is especially important to note that very old models are not energy efficient. If this is your case, purchasing a new energy-efficient model can pay you back over time in energy savings alone. It is also more eco-friendly!
- The cost of repair would exceed the cost of a reasonable replacement. You can determine this by calling repair companies for their hourly rates and estimates. Labor is generally expensive, and parts can vary widely in price. Undergo some simple troubleshooting and look up repair costs if you can identify the issue.
- You desire new features/styles of washing machines and have a budget that can afford a newer model.
Troubleshooting Tips and Repair Guidelines:
- Quickly assess your situation by trying to lighten your washer's load. Check electrical connections (safely, of course), if the washer is filling, and if any displays are showing error codes. The manual that came with your machine may also help you check for loose or broken parts.
- Some things can be easily fixed or replaced due to low parts and repair costs. If a belt or small component has been identified as the problem, you can do the job yourself. If your washer's tub has cracked, the motor appears to be nonfunctional, a complex wiring problem is noticed, or repair estimates are too high for you, replacing the appliance is more cost-efficient.
If you decide to replace your washer, there are many buying guide websites online that can help you choose the best one for your budget and needs. The site presents all the information you need at a glance, allowing you to identify your perfect appliance quickly and easily!
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