From cooling and heating food to cooling and heating the home, we rely on appliances to make our lives easier, safer, and more comfortable. Yet every now and then something doesn’t work quite the way it should, and we are faced with a repair. However, depending on the faulty part or component as well as the age of the appliance, you might be better off replacing the unit.
Before committing to a repair or replacement, confirm which part requires replacing and research the cost on the manufacturer’s website or with an after-market parts dealer so you can make an informed decision. Keep in mind that, usually, the higher end the brand, the more expensive the parts. Read on to learn about some of the most expensive appliance parts to repair or replace.
Washing Machine Agitator. The agitator’s job is to keep laundry moving in a top-loading washing machine. If it breaks, you’re looking at roughly $300 to $375 to replace, depending on the model. If the appliance is older and has already undergone repair work, it might make more sense to replace the machine.
Clothes Dryer Motor. When the dryer motor fails, you’ll find your clothes just as wet as when you put them in. The motor is responsible for rotating the drum and running the blower. Without it, the dryer is useless. A replacement motor runs between $350 (electric dryer) and $450 (gas dryer). Again, consider the age of the appliance before committing to a repair.
Smart Refrigerator Control Board. The control board on a smart refrigerator is considered the brain of the appliance. It performs basic functions as well as allowing you access to built-in apps while communicating with your smart home system. On average, a control board costs between $250 and $500. A higher-end model could run you significantly more.
Oven Door. An oven door is designed to trap heat inside the oven while providing users a viewing window to keep an eye on food without the need to open the door. If the door becomes damaged or the window cracks, it won’t function as it should and can even cause a fire. A replacement door can cost up to $600, depending on the make and model.
Dishwasher Motor. Unless you use your dishwasher to store extra dishes, it needs a functioning motor. The motor is responsible for powering the pump which forces the water into the spray arms and out again to clean the dishes. Considering that the average cost of a new dishwasher is around $700 and a new motor costs between $400 and $600, it usually makes more sense to replace the dishwasher.
Stove or Cooktop Control Panel. From choosing burner temperatures and controlling the oven to starting the timer and setting the clock, the control panel is an integral part of the appliance. If it needs to be replaced, prepare to spend between $450 and $600, which may not be worth it.
Furnace Heat Exchanger. The heat exchanger transfers heat from the combustion system through thin metal sheets or tubes and into the ventilation system. Here it warms the air before blowing it through ducts and into your home. Because a heat exchanger can cost upwards of $2,000, you might consider upgrading the entire system vs. incurring the cost of the repair, especially if the furnace is getting up there in years.
Air Conditioner Compressor. The compressor is responsible for moving refrigerant between the evaporator and condenser coils. Replacing this essential part can cost around $2,000 while replacing the entire system will cost considerably more. Once again, consider the unit’s age and recent repair history when deciding whether to repair or replace.
The best way to keep an eye on your heating and cooling systems, for example, is with regular preventive maintenance performed by the local HVAC specialists at Air Professionals. We’ll help keep your systems in the best possible shape to help extend their equipment lifespan, reducing the frequency and cost of repairs, and keep your utility costs in line. Why not call today to schedule service.