When to Upgrade Your Appliance vs. Replace a Part

When to Upgrade Your Appliance vs. Replace a Part

It’s a question many homeowners face at some point: Should I replace a faulty appliance part or invest in a brand-new unit altogether? At PRS Appliances Inc., we understand the value of both options—and we’re here to help you make the smart choice.

1. Evaluate the Age of the Appliance

Most major home appliances come with an expected lifespan:

  • Refrigerators: 10–15 years

  • Washers/Dryers: 8–12 years

  • Dishwashers: 7–10 years

  • Ovens/Ranges: 13–15 years

If your appliance is nearing or beyond its average lifespan, it might be more cost-effective in the long run to upgrade instead of repairing.

2. Compare the Cost of Repair vs. Replacement

A good rule of thumb:
If the repair cost exceeds 50% of the price of a new appliance, consider an upgrade.

For example, if fixing a broken compressor in your fridge will cost $600, and a new fridge is $1,000, replacement is the better deal. However, if a $50 fuse is the problem, repair wins.

3. Assess Energy Efficiency

Older appliances tend to use more energy. Upgrading to ENERGY STAR®-rated models can significantly lower your electricity and water bills. That savings adds up quickly in places like Hawaii, where utility costs are already higher than the mainland.

If your current model isn’t energy efficient, replacing it with a newer model could pay for itself in just a few years.

4. Check Part Availability

If the part you need is obsolete or hard to source, you may face long wait times or inflated prices. This is especially relevant in Hawaii, where shipping delays are common. PRS Parts Inc. can help you determine if the component is available locally—often faster than online orders.

5. Evaluate Performance and Features

Sometimes it’s not just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about what you’re missing. Modern appliances come equipped with smart tech, better ergonomics, and more user-friendly features.

If your current washer doesn’t handle bulky loads or your fridge doesn’t keep temps consistent, that’s more than just inconvenience—it’s inefficiency.

6. Consider the Environmental Impact

While repairing extends the life of your appliance and reduces landfill waste, energy hogs or units that break down frequently may actually have a higher carbon footprint in the long run.

Final Thoughts from PRS Appliances Inc.

If your appliance is relatively new and in otherwise good condition, a simple part replacement may be all you need. We stock a wide range of OEM appliance parts through PRS Parts Inc., and our team is happy to assist you.

But if your unit is aging, inefficient, or costing you more than it’s worth, PRS Appliances Inc. offers reliable, affordable appliance replacements—including scratch-and-dent models starting at just $199.99.

Visit PRS Appliances at 540 Lagoon Dr. for expert advice, affordable appliances, and genuine parts that keep your home running smoothly.

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