The first indicator of whether you should repair your washer is how old the machine is. Typically, the shelf life of a washer is about 10 years, depending on how much wear and tear it has. So, if your washer machine is still reasonably young, and you spent a decent penny on it, it's definitely worth repairing.
Factors to Consider
If you spent $650 on your washer seven years ago and you're doing seven loads per week (a lot of wear and tear), a new washer purchase makes sense. But if the machine is 3 years old and you spent $1,000 for it, a repair may be the better financial choice.
Typically a washing machine lasts 10-13 years. Top-loading washers typically last a few years longer than their front-loading brethren. If you use a stacked washer/dryer combo, you may have to replace both if one starts acting up. Proper maintenance will likely help your washer last for over 15 years.
Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement. Water Inlet Valve.
A broken motor coupler, failed lid switch or bad timer could also prevent this type of washer from spinning. On top-load, vertical modular washers (washers whose lid is always locked during the entire wash cycle), a failed shifter assembly or worn drive belt can prevent the washer from spinning the wash load.
The most common problem for front-load washing machines is a moldy smell, which isn't something you want in a machine that's supposed to clean the clothes you wear.
Typically, the shelf life of a washer is about 10 years, depending on how much wear and tear it has. So, if your washer machine is still reasonably young, and you spent a decent penny on it, it's definitely worth repairing. You'll get more out of your investment!
LG has consistently emerged as the best washer brand, often vying for the top spot with Speed Queen in Consumer Reports. This reputation cements LG's status as one of the best brand washers. A key factor in LG's popularity is its impressively low repair rates, making it a reliable choice in the appliance market.
There are a number of root causes for common washing machine breakages. If your washing machines are constantly breaking down, it's worth checking that they're fully installed, that your water supply isn't too hard, and that you're not overloading them with clothes or detergent!
It's more than six years old
Once your machine is more than six years old, a major failure usually means you'll need to buy a new one because any repairs will be expensive. And with older appliances you'll need to weigh up the risk that, after paying to fix one problem, something else may break.
While, in most cases, it's better to replace an older washing machine, if the repairs are simple, then they may be more cost-effective. If you're repairing only a simple issue with your washing machine, then it might not cost you very much. It's worth contacting an electrician to take a look at the issue.
The average life of a washing machine ranges from 10 to 13 years, although some brands can manufacture washing machines with an even longer lifespan than the average appliance. So, while you are hunting for your new washing machine, you won't have to wonder “how long a washing machine should last” anymore.
Call a Repair Service
If the machine still carries a warranty, it will be repaired at no extra cost. If it doesn't, you'll incur some out-of-pocket expenses. The downside of calling a repair service to fix a washing machine is that repairs often take too long.
If a washer no longer performs effectively or repair costs exceed half its value, a replacement can be more economical. Frequently recurring issues indicate underlying problems that are likely to persist and can lead to ongoing repair expenses.
Ensuring your washing machine receives routine maintenance is essential for its performance and durability. This regular upkeep not only helps to maintain the appliance's efficiency but also significantly prolongs its serviceable life, offering considerable savings on potential future expenditures.
Repair Cost by Washer Type
Top-load washers, which are common in many households, may require repairs in the range of $50 to $300. Front-load washers and integrated models, often considered more advanced, can be pricier to repair, with costs typically ranging from $100 to $400.
Whether it's worth getting a 10-year-old washing machine fixed depends on factors such as the cost of repair, the overall condition of the machine, and the availability of replacement parts. If the repair cost is more than half the price of a new machine, it's often better to invest in a new one.
If your washer has a loose drum, the chances are that you are hearing loud banging or grinding noises. You may also see some error codes on your washer's display screen. Alternatively, you may feel that your washing machine is malfunctioning or that it has stopped working altogether.
The average callout fee for a washing machine technician is usually in the region of £60.
Compared to a top load impeller washer, front load washers are still 25% more energy and water efficient. Furthermore, front load washers help save on drying time and energy by spinning clothes much faster than top load washers to extract more water out of clothes.