Guidelines for appliance repair, replacement, and installation

Deciding whether to repair or replace household appliances requires evaluating more than just the age of the unit. Experts from Upper Appliance Repair and the OCU suggest weighing the cost of the specific broken part, energy consumption, repair history, and the availability of spare parts.

While average lifespans provide a general guide—such as 10 to 14 years for refrigerators and 10 to 13 years for washing machines—the type of component failing is critical. Minor parts like seals or belts are often worth repairing even in older models, whereas expensive failures in compressors or electronic boards may justify a replacement.

Proper installation is also vital for appliance longevity and performance. For refrigerators, manufacturers offer varying guidance: Whirlpool and GE suggest a slight backward tilt (approximately 1/8 to 1/4 inch higher at the front) to assist door closure, while Maytag recommends keeping the unit completely level. Incorrect leveling can lead to doors failing to close properly or other operational issues.