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A reliable washing machine is an essential part of any home, helping you stay on top of laundry and keep your clothes looking their best. But when problems start to appear, many homeowners find themselves asking: is it cheaper to fix a washing machine or buy a new one?
Like any household appliance, washing machines won’t last forever.
As they age, they become more susceptible to wear and tear, faults, and unexpected breakdowns.
However, it can often be difficult to tell whether you’re dealing with a minor issue that can be repaired, or a sign that your machine is reaching the end of its lifespan.
When your washing machine stops performing as it should, deciding whether to repair or replace it isn’t always straightforward.
The right choice will depend on factors such as the age of the appliance, the cost of repairs, and how efficiently it’s running.
Not sure if your washing machine is on its last legs? Wondering whether a repair is worthwhile or if it’s time to invest in a replacement?
We’ve gathered everything you need to know to help you make the right decision and determine whether repairing or replacing your washing machine is the most cost-effective option.
Is It Cheaper To Fix A Washing Machine Or Buy A New One?
This can actually depend on a few things.
One is the age of the washing machine itself.
As we mentioned in our introduction, as washing machines get older, they’re naturally susceptible to issues and errors.
Washing machines usually last for around 10 good years on average.
If your washing machine is significantly older, and closer to 10 years, then a replacement may be more worthwhile.
At 10 years old, a washing machine is more likely to encounter errors and develop significant faults.
You might spend hundreds of pounds repairing one issue, only for a new issue to take its place.
It’s rather like fighting the “Hydra” of Greek myth. As well as this, repairs for older washing machines are naturally more costly.
Luckily, there is a silver lining.
The “Right To Repair” law, which came into effect in 2021 means that manufacturers must continue to provide replacement parts for appliances for at least ten years after the appliance was first released.
Washing machine repairs can vary massively in price, from case to case. If your dishwasher is significantly older and needs significant repairs, then it may cost less to purchase a replacement!
Another factor that can affect whether a washing machine is worth repairing is the extent of the damage.
While, in most cases, it’s better to replace an older washing machine, if the repairs are simple, then they may be more cost-effective.
If you’re repairing only a simple issue with your washing machine, then it might not cost you very much.
It’s worth contacting an electrician to take a look at the issue.
They will then be able to quote you a price for repairs.
You’ll want to compare the repair price against the price of a replacement!
Is It Worth Repairing A Washing Machine?
Again, this depends on the age of the washing machine, and the extent of the repairs.
For the most part, newer washing machines are much easier, and thus less expensive, to repair.
This is because it’s much easier to source parts for repairs.
As well as this, repairs for newer washing machines may be covered directly by the original manufacturers.
If a washing machine encounters a significant fault in the first few years, it’s likely that repairs will be covered entirely by a warranty.
This means that if you have a newer washing machine that’s acting up, you could easily get it repaired for no extra expense!
Older washing machines are much tougher to repair, and they also likely won’t be covered by a warranty.
If your washing machine is faulty, and closer to its 10-year milestone, then it would be more cost-effective to replace it.
How Much Does It Cost To Fix A Washing Machine?
Unfortunately, there are no easy answers to this question.
The cost of repairing a washing machine can depend on the damage itself, the model, and even the quoted price offered by a given technician.
On average, smaller tasks such as installing new motor brushes could cost as little as £70.
More expensive repairs, such as entire drum replacements, can often cost upwards of £255.
However, the cost of each of these services will depend on the quoted price offered by the technician.
No two washing machine repairs are ever the same. This means the cost of a repair service can differ massively from case to case, depending on the damage, the washing machine model, and the technician’s own services!
When you’re looking to repair your washing machine, it’s worth contacting a number of technicians.
Make a note of the quoted costs offered by each technician, and then compare and contrast them.
Be sure to give technicians an accurate report of the damage to your washing machine, so that you can get a reflective price!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Cheaper To Fix A Washing Machine Or Buy A New One?
This will depend on the age of the washing machine, and the extent of the damage.
Older washing machines, and those that are more damaged, will be more expensive to repair.
Newer washing machines, on the other hand, are easier, and less expensive to repair.
If your washing machine is older, and significantly damaged, then a replacement is best!
Is It Worth Fixing A 7-Year-Old Washing Machine?
At 7 years old, a washing machine can be considered old.
However, at this age, there is still plenty of life left in the unit.
As such, if the repairs are only minor, then it might be worth fixing the unit.
If the repairs are extensive and would cost more than a replacement, then it’s not worth fixing the unit!
What Is The Life Expectancy Of A Washing Machine?
On average, most washing machines tend to last around 10 years before becoming faulty.
However, it’s totally possible for a washing machine to live beyond the expected 10 years, with enough care.
If your washing machine is more than 10 years old but is still perfectly functional, there’s no need to replace it yet!
