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Appliances make daily life easier, so you want them to last as long as possible. However, with regular use and normal wear and tear, old appliances eventually stop functioning properly. An appliance repair can often return your device to working order, but replacing it may be more cost-effective in certain cases. Here are some common appliances and how to tell when they’re beyond fixing.
A Guide to Replacing Your Appliances
1. Kitchen Range
A good-quality kitchen range has a life span of approximately 15 years. When your range is getting up in age, and the costs of appliance repairs are more than half the price of a new one, a replacement may be the best option. You might also consider replacing the stove if it is having issues heating up. If the flame on your gas stove flickers yellow, red, or orange rather than blue, this is a sign of incomplete combustion and a serious safety hazard. Try cleaning the burner. If the problem persists, you will need a new range.
2. Washing Machine and Dryer
Excessive noise and shaking during a cycle is the most noticeable sign that a washer and dryer are on their way out. A washing machine needing replacement may leak water, or water might not fill the drum at all. Older dryers can produce a burning smell and might not dry your clothes completely. If your dryer is defective, it could also become a fire risk.
3. Air Conditioner
You need your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable on hot summer days. If the AC is not fulfilling its one job, it might be due to clogs in your ductwork or air filters restricting airflow. When clearing the blockages doesn't work, a replacement might be in order.
Many homeowners also decide to upgrade when their energy bills start to climb. New models are more energy-efficient than ever, so lower monthly bills often make up for the installation cost. Loud grinding, squeaking, or squealing sounds may also warrant a new AC.
4. Refrigerator
Despite being a necessity for every kitchen, refrigerators are often forgotten regarding appliance maintenance. Once your fridge approaches 10 years of use, look for growing problems. If there is a lot of visible condensation or excessive noise, or the back of the refrigerator is hot, an appliance repair or replacement may be necessary. Food spoiling quickly is a major sign that your fridge cannot maintain a food-safe temperature and needs to be replaced.
