Guides / Spend less on repairs
Repair or replace? Appliances and systems
A simple rule of thumb, and when to break it.
When an appliance or system breaks, the question is whether to fix it or start fresh. A rough rule helps.
The 50% rule of thumb
If the repair costs more than about half the price of a new one, and the item is past roughly half its expected life, replacing often makes more sense. It's a starting point, not a law.
Lean toward repair when
- It's still under warranty
- The part is common and cheap
- It's otherwise in good shape
- Newer models wouldn't save much energy
Lean toward replace when
- It has broken several times recently
- Parts are hard to find
- A new, efficient model would lower energy bills
- There's a safety issue
General educational information. Follow product instructions and local codes, and hire a licensed pro for gas, electrical panels, structure and roofs. Home Nickel Pro isn't paid by any contractor, store or brand.