Replacement Guides – When to Fix or Swap Your Home Appliances

Got a noisy fridge, a leaky dishwasher, or an oven that won’t heat? Before you call a technician, ask yourself: does it make sense to fix it, or is it time for a new unit? This page pulls together the most useful advice from our articles so you can make a quick, confident decision.

How to Decide: Repair or Replace?

First, check the age of the appliance. Most washing machines and dishwashers are built to last 8‑12 years. If yours is older than that, replacement costs often beat repeated repairs. Next, look at the fault cost. A cracked oven element typically costs £50‑£80 to replace, while a faulty boiler pump can run £300‑£500. If the repair bill exceeds half the price of a new model, swapping out is smarter.

Energy efficiency also matters. Newer models use far less electricity, so a higher upfront price can pay off on your bills within a few years. Finally, consider safety. A faulty hot water heater that won’t turn on could be a sign of a serious electrical issue – replace it rather than risk a fire.

Common Replacement Scenarios

Oven. Look for uneven heating, a constantly tripping breaker, or an oven that won’t reach set temperature. If the element or thermostat is broken, a £70‑£150 fix is common. But if the control board fails, you’re looking at £300‑£500, which often means it’s cheaper to buy a new oven.

Boiler. A boiler that sputters, makes loud noises, or needs a new heat exchanger every few years is likely at the end of its life. Installing a new boiler usually takes one to two days and costs between £2,000‑£3,500. The payoff comes from lower fuel bills and fewer breakdowns.

Dishwasher. Persistent leaks, a motor that hums but won’t spin, or a spray arm that’s corroded are clear red flags. Replacement parts run £80‑£150, but if the pump or motor is toast, a new dishwasher (often under £400) makes more sense.

Refrigerator. If the unit can’t keep a steady temperature, makes loud compressor noise, or the freezer defrosts constantly, the repair may be a quick coil clean (£50) or a pricey compressor swap (£400‑£600). When the price climbs, consider a newer, Energy‑Star fridge.

Extractor Fans. Fans that don’t spin or hum loudly usually need motor replacement (around £80). However, if wiring is damaged, an electrician’s labor can push the total past £200 – a good point to think about a fresh fan.

Our articles go deeper into each appliance, offering step‑by‑step troubleshooting, cost breakdowns, and DIY safety tips. Use them as a cheat‑sheet: identify the symptom, check the typical repair cost, compare with a new model price, and decide.

Bottom line: don’t automatically replace every broken gadget. A quick cost‑vs‑benefit check can save you money and keep your home running smoothly. When in doubt, give us a call – we’ll give you a free quote and help you choose the best path forward.