Nobody wants to spend money fixing an appliance that's about to fail again anyway — but replacing a machine that only needed a simple part swap is money down the drain too. Here's how to think it through.
1. Check the Machine's Age
Most automatic washing machines are built to last roughly 8 to 12 years with normal use. Under 5 years old, almost any repair is worth doing. Past 10 years, it's worth weighing the fault against the machine's remaining lifespan.
2. Compare the Repair Cost to a New Machine
A widely used guideline is the "50% rule": if the repair cost is more than about half the price of a new, comparable machine, replacement usually offers better long-term value — especially on an older unit.
3. Look at the Repair History
One repair on an otherwise reliable machine is normal. Multiple unrelated faults within a year or two is a sign the machine is wearing out overall, even if each individual repair is affordable.
4. Consider the Type of Fault
Some faults are simple and cheap regardless of the machine's age — a door lock, drain pump, belt or water inlet valve, for example. Others, like a failed motor or control board on an old machine, are a stronger signal to consider replacing.
5. Factor in Water and Energy Efficiency
Washing machines from over a decade ago typically use noticeably more water and electricity per cycle than current models. On an older machine, that ongoing cost is worth weighing alongside the repair bill itself.
Our Honest Recommendation
In most cases we're called out for, repair is the right call — the fault is a specific part, not the whole machine. Our technician will always tell you plainly if a repair isn't worth it for your specific machine, rather than replacing a part that won't meaningfully extend its life.
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Not sure which side of the line your machine falls on? Book a diagnosis and we'll give you a straight answer.
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