Home appliances are a blessing when they are in working order, but they can be a challenge when they malfunction. When your dryer quits working the day before the first day of school, for instance, it can be a challenge to get the kids and yourself ready for the first day you all return to the classrooms, you as a teacher, the kids as students. Finding a way to get your appliances repaired and back in working order can be a challenge. The decision to repair rather than replace a dryer, for instance, is often difficult to make. Repair service calls often come with a minimum service charge that can be intimidating, so many appliance owners make the decision to simply buy something new and hope that it lasts longer than the previous purchase.
Whether you are looking for a washing machine or a dryer repair, many companies will suggest that you purchase an extended warranty. It is extended warranties, in fact, that help companies make their profits. With so little mark up on the appliances themselves, the sale of extended warranties is where many sales people earn their commissions.
When Was the Last Time That You Had to Purchase a New Appliance?
Whether you have decided to forgo the oven repairs and to buy a new upgraded model or you are getting ready to buy all new appliances for a new home, it is important to make sure that you are buying the best products that you can afford and to read everything from customer recommendations to consumer reports to help you make the best choice. Consider some of these facts and figures about the appliance industry and the amount of money that people spend on these items in the U.S.:
- The average cost to repair an appliance was $254 to $275 in the year 2014.
- Gas range ovens should last 15 years before a home owner should ever have to think about replacing it.
- Refrigerators should last 13 years before a home owner should have to think about replacing it.
- Gas and electric dryers should last 13 years before a home owner should have to think about replacing it.
- Unfortunately, 20% of dishwashers break within three to four years of use.
- Unfortunately, 25% of front-loading washing machines break within three to four years.
It is disappointing to know that the appliances that you buy today may not be in good working order five to 10 years from now. For this reason, it is important to buy the best products you can from the most reputable dealers that you can find.