You use your appliances all the time, so you’d know if they were outdated—right? They help you wash your dishes, cook your food, and even keep it cool. But every electronic has an expiration date. With outdated appliances, it’s more about functionality than appearance (though that matters, too). Repairs may help to postpone replacement, but you’ve got to prepare yourself for this investment at some point. If you’ve got older appliances at home, here’s what you need to know:
In the Kitchen…
The refrigerator is arguably the most important (and most expensive) appliance. You use it every day, so detecting potential problems should be easy enough. If there’s an issue with the ice maker, then you may want to consider having a professional repair it or simply going without this nonessential function for a while. Smaller repairs usually run in the $200 to $400 range, which isn’t too bad. Especially when you consider that a full replacement can cost somewhere between $800 to $2,000. And that’s just for the basic models. If you want something oversized or complete with electronic upgrades—including a built-in TV or tablet—then you could wind up paying $5,000 to $10,000.
When it comes to outdated appliances, you need to key an eye on your stove, too. Although the average life span of this particular piece will vary depending on whether you have an electric or a gas range, you should be able to keep the same stove for 15 to 20 years. If you notice the burners or baking elements simply aren’t working the way they’re supposed to, then you could always get a quote for repairs. With older appliances or repairs that cost more than half of what it would to simply replace the stove, you may just want to start shopping.
For Washing and Drying…
A dishwasher starts showing its age by producing dishes that are spotted and less than sparkling. You might also notice that this appliance stops suddenly, halfway through a cycle. While consistently clearing debris and cleaning your dishwasher may extend its life, at some point, you’ll need to replace it. Fortunately, it’s much less expensive than the other kitchen appliances we’ve already discussed. So, if you need to update the full suite to avoid mismatched finishes, then this particular piece shouldn’t break the budget.
Washers and dryers typically come as a set not just because they complement one another in function. But also, because they have similar life spans. Depending on how often you use these appliances and how frequently you clean the hoses/vents, you should get anywhere between 10 to 15 years before your next replacement. Just look out for stains that seem a little too stubborn, standing water, and/or random stops during cycles. Once these appliances become outdated, there are also safety issues to consider.
Rather than buying a bunch of different warranties when replacing your washer, dryer, refrigerator, and stove, consider adding coverage that could help with repairs. Erie Insurance offers an extra cushion to help with unexpected expenses when your new (or outdated) appliances breakdown. Just ask your local experts at Freedom Insurance Agency for more information!
