If you’ve got a washing machine that’s been humming for years or a water heater that’s seen a decade of use, you’re probably asking yourself, “Can I still fix this?” The short answer is yes, but only up to a point. Older gear can be a money‑saving hero if you treat it right, yet holding onto a failing unit can cost you more in wasted energy and surprise breakdowns.
Most old appliances start showing the same three problems: worn‑out parts, sediment build‑up, and electrical wear. A 10‑year‑old water heater, for example, often needs a flush to clear mineral deposits that choke the heating element. Our guide “Should You Flush a 10‑Year‑Old Water Heater?” walks you through a safe UK‑style flush, the tools you need, and when it’s better to skip the step.
Washing machines tend to develop drum bearings that get noisy, or pumps that start leaking. The “DIY Washing Machine Repair” article helps you pinpoint the fault, decide if a simple belt swap will do, or if you need a professional’s eye.
Boilers are another family member that ages hard. A 20‑year‑old boiler may show rust, reduced efficiency, or a failing gas valve. In “Should You Repair a 20 Year Old Water Heater?” we compare the cost of a new unit versus the risk of a burst pipe.
Repair makes sense when the part cost is under 30 % of a brand‑new replacement and the appliance still meets your daily needs. For a tumble dryer that’s 15 years old but still dries a load in an hour, a motor fix can add another five years of life. On the flip side, if your electric hob’s heating elements keep burning out and the price tag of new coils is high, swapping the whole hob might be smarter.
Energy bills are a good gauge. An old fridge that runs constantly because the seal is cracked will jack up your electricity use. In that case, a replacement usually pays off within a year. Check the “How Long Do Electric Hobs Last?” and “Tumble Dryer Life Expectancy” posts for typical lifespan stats to set realistic expectations.
Safety is non‑negotiable. If you ever smell gas, see water pooling around a heater, or notice sparks when you turn on an appliance, call a certified technician immediately. The “Hot Water Heater Not Turning On?” guide lists the red‑flag symptoms that mean you shouldn’t DIY.
Regular maintenance can stretch an old unit’s life. Flushing water heaters, cleaning dryer lint traps, and descaling coffee machines are cheap chores that keep performance up. Our “Water Heater Maintenance: Should You Flush or Drain?” article explains the difference and shows which method suits your model.
Bottom line: assess the age, the cost of the fix, and the energy impact. If the repair is cheap, you understand the task, and the appliance still does what you need, go ahead. If the fix costs a chunk of a new unit, the efficiency is poor, or safety is at risk, it’s time to let it go.
Need a hand deciding? Our team at Nuneaton Appliance Repair Experts can give you a free quote, walk you through the pros and cons, and schedule a quick repair if you choose to keep the old gear alive. Give us a call, and let’s get your home running smoothly again.
Deciding whether to repair a 20-year-old electric oven involves weighing the cost of repairs against the convenience and features of newer models. Understanding common repair issues, costs, and the benefits and drawbacks of keeping an older appliance can help make an informed decision. Consider energy efficiency, spare parts availability, and personal attachment to make the right choice for your kitchen.