When it comes to dishwashers, homeowners have a choice between repairing and replacing their appliances. Repairing can be more cost-efficient for minor issues but may require multiple visits from a technician or the purchase of replacement parts.
On the other hand, replacing your dishwasher can be more expensive initially. Still, it is often more manageable in the long run and may call for newer dishwashers with enhanced features.
Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace a dishwasher should be based on evaluating both short-term and long-term costs.
Now, let’s evaluate whether to repair or replace your dishwasher.
How to Decide Whether to Repair or Replace Your Dishwasher?
If you are deliberating whether to repair or replace your dishwasher, there are a few factors that should be taken into account:
Dishwasher Age
Dishwashers typically have a lifespan of eight years, depending on their model and brand. If your dishwasher is older than this, you may want to consider replacing it rather than repairing it.
Dishwasher Energy-Saving Features
Invest in energy-saving features now and reap the rewards of lower utility costs in the long run. New dishwashers have improved cleaning power and energy-efficient motors that can reduce your overall costs.
Dishwasher Replacement Cost
Before you attempt to repair your dishwasher, it is critical that you evaluate if any replacement parts are required. You may also have to factor in labor costs if you hire a professional for the job.
Labor Cost
If you are not tech-savvy, you may consider hiring a professional to make the repairs. Labor costs may vary depending on their experience and expertise. It can range dramatically from $90 to as much as $200.
Installation Costs
Installation fees for a new dishwasher may also be something to consider. Professionals typically charge between $50 and $100 for installation services.
Common Dishwasher Problems
Whether or not your dishwasher is worth repairing largely depends on the issue. If you’re having trouble with your dishwasher, check out these popular issues that could be causing the problem:
- Clogging: Clogs are one of the most common causes of dishwasher breakdowns. A clogged filter prevents water from draining out of the machine, resulting in poor cleaning performance and potential flooding.
- Leaking Dishwasher: Leaks are also a common problem caused by weak connections or worn-out seals. If left unchecked, leaks can cause severe damage to your kitchen floor, and your dishwasher will not function properly.
- Noisy Operation: If you notice that your dishwasher is making unusual noises, it may be caused by a broken or loose part. You may need to replace the damaged components to fix the issue.
- Damaged Soap Dispenser: Sometimes, soap dispensers won’t close or release soap during the wash cycle. This is usually caused by corrosion or a loose connection.
- Broken Door Seal or Door Latch: A broken door seal or latch can cause water to leak during a wash cycle. You’ll be able to save even more money by taking care of the repairs yourself.
- Broken Heating Element: A broken heating element is another common problem with an old dishwasher. This will prevent your dishwashers from completing their drying cycle and will cause higher costs in electricity bills.
- Hard Water Build-Up: This is a common issue caused by hard water deposits. You may need to invest in a dishwasher detergent specially formulated for hard water, or you can use vinegar and baking soda as effective cleaning agents. For more information on how to unclog your dishwasher, please check this article: How To Unclog A Dishwasher Drain: 8 DIY Steps
Tips to Take Care of Your Dishwasher
Basic troubleshooting can save you from the cost of repairing or replacing your dishwasher. Here are simple tips to keep it running smoothly:
- Dishwasher Loading Recommendations: Be sure to load your dishwasher correctly and never overload it. Don’t stack pans or dishes too closely together. Make sure there is space between them so water can flow freely.
- Check for Blockages: Check the filter regularly and clean it if necessary. This will help keep your dishwasher running at optimum performance.
- Run Hot Water Before Starting: If you’re having trouble draining your dishwasher, try running hot water from the sink before starting. This can help to dislodge any debris in the pipes.
- Regular Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keep your dishwasher working correctly and prevent costly repairs or replacements. Make sure to clean the dishwasher filter and check for any issues.
- Pause the Wash Cycle: If your dishwasher has any problems, investigate further. It may be a simple fix or require more extensive repair work.
- Check the Electronic Control Board: If there is a strange sound or your dishwasher isn’t starting, the electronic control board could be the source of the issue.
- Search for Internal Drain: If your dishwasher is not draining correctly, try to locate the internal drain. It could be clogged with debris and cause water to back up in the machine.
Dishwasher Warranty
Before you call a repair service, it is essential to check if your dishwasher is under warranty. If you purchased your current dishwasher just recently, an extended warranty might cover repairs or replacements.
Dishwashers are provided with a limited-time manufacturer warranty. This warranty ensures it has not been impaired or defective due to manufacturing flaws. Nevertheless, these warranties only last a year, so they don’t cover the appliance’s typical life cycle.
Ask for a Professional’s Help
If your dishwasher is an older model, contact a factory-authorized repair shop. A qualified technician can identify the issue and offer you the best solutions. With the right skills, any problem can be resolved without spending a fortune on repairs or replacements.
If you are from Australia, you can check out Quality Appliance Repair for all dishwasher repair needs. They offer a wide range of services, including installation, repairs, and maintenance. The professionals at Quality Appliance Repair can diagnose the problem with your dishwasher and provide you with an effective solution that fits within your budget.
To learn more or to schedule a consultation, repair, or installation, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us using the contact details provided below:
- Dishwasher Repairs Melbourne – (03) 9034 6162
- Dishwasher Repairs Perth – (08) 9551 7923
- Dishwasher Repairs Adelaide – (08) 6118 7045
- Dishwasher Repairs Sydney – (02) 6190 1313
- Dishwasher Repair Brisbane – (07) 3088 9002
We hope to assist you soon with your dishwasher needs!
