Replace or repair? Consumer advocate says consider fixing broken appliances

BOSTON — Clothes washer. Dryer. Dishwasher. Refrigerator. When our home appliances break, it can be a frustrating and expensive problem to solve.

The average cost for a new home appliance is $2,175, according to Home Advisor. Boston Consumers’ Checkbook Executive Editor Kevin Brasler said homeowners should consider fixing those broken appliances before running out and buying a brand new machine.

“Just don’t assume, ‘Oh, it’s broken down, I’ve got to buy a new one,’” Brasler said. “If you’re satisfied with the features of your appliance, if it hasn’t broken down before, if it’s been reliable, and if you like the way it looks and operates, that’s a reason to go ahead and shell out $200 or $300 for a repair because it’s likely to continue to perform well for you.”

Even if your appliance is on the cheaper end, Boston Consumers’ Checkbook found “low-priced companies on average rate higher on service quality than their higher-priced competitors.”

Boston Consumers’ Checkbook has reviews and ratings for 76 local repair services here.

Here are some things to consider if you do want to repair:

If your appliance is still covered under warranty, use a shop authorized to perform in-warranty repairs so you don’t have to pay for work.
If the warranty is expired, only use top-rated shops.
Consider fixing it yourself: it may not be as expensive or difficult as you think it is.

“Often appliance repairs can be done for a few hundred dollars. You can usually do most repairs yourself for like $20. Parts for appliances are really cheap,” Brasler said.

Click the link here for ratings and advice from Boston Consumers’ Checkbook.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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