Got a faulty washing machine or cooker? Here are five questions you need to ask to decide whether it’s time to repair or replace.
Let’s be honest, we live in a throwaway society. Sometimes we think it’s quicker and easier just to chuck something away and get a new one. While this may be an acceptable rule for an old sweater or a broken toy, things are a bit different when it comes to your white goods.
These complex pieces of kit rely on hundreds of parts, and often, it only takes one of them to go wrong. There’s no point chucking out a perfectly good washing machine if it can be easily fixed. We’ve put together a few questions you might want to consider before saying goodbye to your old machine.
1. Are there any simple checks I can do to see if it’s still working?
Some easy checks include making sure the plug or socket is working, circuit breakers haven’t tripped and aeration vents aren’t clogged. In the case of floor standing equipment, make sure your appliance is resting on a smooth and flat surface. For instance, if some smart washing machines detect a wobbly floor they won’t work.
2. Is it still under warranty?
Manufacturers often include a warranty with their goods, which would cover you in the event of a breakdown or failure within the warranty period. When buying new it’s important to remember that extended warranties sold in shops are usually massively overpriced. MoneySavingExpert agree that by the time you’ve paid for an extended warranty, it could work out cheaper to get spare parts and fix the problem yourself or call out a repairman to do it for you.
3. How much will it cost to buy a brand-new replacement?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. If you want a shiny new model with all the latest energy-efficient features and smart tech, you could be looking at a significant outlay. Research indicates, even when regularly used, well-maintained appliances should last anywhere from 12 to 13 years (for a dishwasher or washing machine) or up to 20 years (for an oven or range). This means if a problem is relatively simple to fix, you could end up saving a fortune by opting for repair over replace.
4. Can I fix it myself?
For some white goods faults, you can perform basic repairs yourself, armed with the manual and a decent tool box. If you’ve lost the manual, you can probably find it online, along with videos from others who’ve done their own repairs. Do be careful, though. Tinkering with your white goods might invalidate your warranty, and there’s always the risk of injury if things go wrong
5. Can I get a replacement part?
Let’s take a washing machine as an example again. They’re made up of parts that include a tub, motor, pump, seals, belts and pulleys. Generally speaking, belts and pullies are cheap and easy to replace. Motors and pumps, on the other hand, usually require the attention of an expert engineer. If you know what you’re doing, we offer competitively priced spare parts for most major household appliances.
If you’re unsure whether to repair or replace, calling out a professional technician can give you a definitive answer much faster than going through the manual, while saving you money with a cost-effective repair.
If you’re based in London, Middlesex or the Home Counties, Capital Repairs can help. From small one-off jobs to regular call-outs, we’re a family-run business with over 35 years of experience and a wealth of expertise. To benefit from our fixed-price repairs, call us on 0208 429 3727 today.