Cost-effective decision: Repair or replace your broken refrigerator?
In the kitchen, the fridge is a vital appliance that keeps our food fresh and our meals convenient. However, like all appliances, fridges can break down over time. When this happens, homeowners are faced with a crucial decision: repair or replace?
Factors to consider when deciding on the best course of action include the cost of repair versus replacement, the age of the fridge, warranty status, energy efficiency, condition, and the type of problem.
If the repair costs more than half the price of a new fridge, it's usually more cost-effective to replace. Fridges over about 10 years are more likely to have other failures soon, making replacing a more cost-effective long-term solution. If a fridge is under warranty, repair might be cheaper or even fully covered, tipping the scales towards repair.
Newer fridges use 20% to 30% less energy, so replacing an old, inefficient fridge can save money on power bills over time. Well-maintained fridges last longer, while heavily neglected units may warrant replacement regardless of age. Simple repairs, like seals or single parts, favor repair, while complex, major component failures, especially on older fridges, lean towards replacement.
Additional considerations include environmental impact (repairing extends appliance life and reduces landfill waste), functional needs (sometimes upgrading to a newer model better suits your home), and the longevity of repairs for a fridge and the likelihood of future issues.
When comparing repair and replacement costs, it's essential to gather information about the problem, get at least three quotes, and compare and assess the quotes. Under consumer guarantees, Australians are entitled to a repair, replacement, or refund if there's a major problem with a product or service. If a fridge manufacturer receives enough complaints about a certain problem, they may issue a recall.
If your fridge is more than six years old and suffers a major fault (such as compressor failure), consider replacing it. To check if your fridge has been part of a recall, check the brand, model, and serial number and check current recalls at the ACCC website.
It's important to note that leaving an old fridge on the curb or dumping it elsewhere is illegal. Independent recycling services may also be available for a fee. Some retailers may offer take-back schemes when you buy a new fridge from them.
CHOICE, a trusted source for unbiased advice, provides guidance without self-interest. CHOICE members can view top recommended fridge models in their expert fridge review. CHOICE membership offers access to expert reviews, independent product testing, and support when something goes wrong or a business treats you unfairly.
In summary, factor in repair cost relative to new price, the fridge's age and warranty status, expected future reliability, energy efficiency gains, problem type, and your usage needs to make the best decision. Remember, a new fridge will likely be more efficient and have lower running costs compared to an older one.
- When evaluating repair versus replacement for a fridge, take into account the environmental impact, as choosing to repair can help reduce landfill waste.
- If you're a consumer in Australia, understand your rights under the consumer guarantees, which may allow for a repair, replacement, or refund if a major problem arises with your fridge.
- Considering a lifestyle shift towards health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, or home-and-garden pursuits, upgrading to a newer fridge model may better suit your functional needs.
- To ensure you make the most cost-effective decision, research and compare at least three repair quotes for your fridge's specific problem, and consider joining CHOICE for unbiased advice and expert fridge reviews.
