Should You Repair or Replace Broken Appliances?

When purchasing a home, we all know appliances are eventually going to break and need repaired or replaced…but how do you know which it’s better to do?

1. Air Conditioner – If it’s over 10 years old, the EPA recommends replacing to get the new Energy Star Ratings and save up to 20 percent on cooling costs. If the unit is newer, repair only if the repairs will cost less than half the value.
2. Exterior Concrete – repair hairline cracks with an overlay of cement stucco. Replace if there are bigger cracks or different heights.
3. Toilets – Replace if there are recurring clogs, porcelain cracks or scratches, you’re constantly replacing parts or if it’s not a water saving toiler.
4. Garbage Disposal – If the disposal is less than 10 years old, have it serviced and cleaned. If it’s more than 10 years old, has worn blades and a foul odor all the time, replace it.
5. Gutters – Most gutters can be repaired with the right adhesive. Just look for gutter sealant or patch kits and apply on the inside of the gutter.
6. Furnaces – Furnaces last 15 to 20 years. If it’s not that old, check into having it repaired if the cost is significantly less than replacing it.
7. Asphalt Roof Shingles – Replace individual shingles if they are brittle, missing or curled if less than 20-25 years old.
8. Faucets – Repair o-rings and cartridges first. Check the model reviews on Amazon.com or other forums for the model(s) you have.
9. Other home appliances – Go to RepairClinic to enter your appliance model number and see if it’s a repair or replacement issue.

As you can see, there are times when it’s cost effective to repair, and times when it’s just easier and more cost effective to replace. Don’t automatically assume something in your home needs replaced before getting an estimate or checking one of the mentioned sites.

Sonja Bush is a Mammoth Lakes Realtor ready to help with all your home buying or selling needs. Call her today or email her.