Repair or replace? The framework appliance pros actually use
Every appliance failure raises the same question: is this worth fixing? Here's the framework experienced techs actually use — not the oversimplified rules of thumb you see online.
The 50% rule (and its limits)
The traditional rule: if repair cost exceeds 50% of replacement cost, replace. This is roughly right but misses key context. A $400 fridge compressor replacement is 25% of a $1,600 French-door replacement (worth fixing) but 50% of an $800 basic top-freezer (toss-up). And it ignores remaining life — a 50% repair on a 2-year-old appliance is much better than the same repair on a 12-year-old one.
The age threshold
Average appliance lifespans (per NIST and manufacturer data): refrigerators 13 years, dishwashers 9, washers 11, dryers 13, microwaves 9, ranges 15+. Once an appliance is past 75% of its expected lifespan, big repairs ($300+) start losing the math even when they're under 50% of replacement cost — because you're betting against the rest of the appliance failing soon.
Energy efficiency matters more than people think
A 12-year-old refrigerator uses 30–40% more electricity than a current ENERGY STAR model. Over 5 years, that gap can be $300–$500 in electric costs. A 10-year-old dishwasher uses 50% more water. These aren't decisive on their own, but they tip the scale on borderline decisions.
What pros actually do
Most experienced techs ask three questions before quoting: how old is it, has it had previous major repairs, and how does the customer use it? An 8-year-old fridge with two prior compressor visits gets a 'just replace it' recommendation regardless of the immediate quote. A 5-year-old high-end built-in gets aggressive repair quotes because replacement is expensive and disruptive. Context is everything.
The 50% rule is a starting point, not an answer. Factor in age vs lifespan, repair history, energy efficiency, and replacement-install costs. And get a second opinion on anything over $400 — there's real money in the variance.