Appliance decision guide
Should you repair or replace a washing machine?
A repair can make sense when the tub, bearings and controls are otherwise sound. Use the quoted repair—not just the part price—and include installation for the replacement.
Repair or replace
Compare five-year ownership costs instead of looking only at today’s repair quote.
If the estimated remaining life is under five years, the keep-and-repair scenario includes a later replacement during the comparison window.
What changes the answer?
Ask whether the quote solves the root cause
A pump or latch can be contained. Repeated bearing noise, tub damage or multiple electronic faults can make another repair more likely during the five-year window.
Water and drying costs may exceed washer electricity
A more efficient washer can reduce hot-water use and leave clothes drier, shortening dryer time. Our calculator only compares the annual operating-cost numbers you enter.
Include the real installed replacement price
Delivery, hoses, stacking kits, pedestals and haul-away can materially change the replacement path. Add them before comparing it with the repair quote.
Use this result as a planning range
Stop using a machine that leaks, overheats or shows damaged wiring until it has been inspected.
Review the formulas and public sources in our methodology.
Official references
- How to use the EnergyGuide labelFederal Trade Commission
- Warranties and service contractsFederal Trade Commission
- Appliances and ElectronicsU.S. Department of Energy