Having a dishwasher should prevent you from working up a sweat when washing pans and glassware. But if your dishwasher breaks, your sink can quickly overflow with dirty dishes. If you could fix it yourself, that might be your first thought. Should you hire an expert to fix it? Or, in the worst case, will you require a completely new machine?
When deciding whether to repair or replace your dishwasher, consider its age and part replacement availability. Choose the one that is ideal for you with the aid of this guide.
Common Dishwasher Repairs
You can either pay someone to fix these common issues for you or handle them yourself:
Dishwasher Leak
Dishwashers that leak are frequently simple to fix. A loose hose or a broken gasket are the two most common reasons a dishwasher leaks. Gaskets are tiny rubber rings used to join two hoses or to join one hose to another component inside the dishwasher. They can crack or break apart because they are constructed of rubber, which deteriorates over time. Replacement gaskets are frequently affordable. Frequently, you can change them on your own.
A broken door seal may cause water to spill onto the floor from your dishwasher.
Broken Heating Elements
Your dishwasher’s drying cycle might not finish due to a broken heating element. Your heating element needs to be diagnosed by a professional who can also order the necessary parts to fix it.
Clogs
If you find standing water at the bottom of the appliance, it may indicate a clogged drainage system somewhere. If the spray arms are clogged, your dishwasher may need to provide a stronger water flow for effective cleaning. Frequently, you can clean the dishwasher by yourself.
Broken Soap Dispenser
Sometimes, soap dispensers won’t release soap throughout the wash cycle or won’t close. Usually, you can fix it yourself if you obtain replacement parts.
Major Repairs
Problems like damaged circulation pumps, faulty control panels, or broken motors frequently call for professional repair. Additionally, the parts needed to fix these issues are frequently more expensive. Depending on the cost of parts, replacing your dishwasher may be more affordable than fixing these problems.
Factors to Consider When Deciding to Repair or Replace
When facing issues with a dishwasher, deciding whether to repair or replace it can be challenging. Several factors come into play when making this choice, and evaluating each aspect before making a final decision is essential. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Dishwashers Age: Consider the age of the dishwasher. Generally, dishwashers have a lifespan of around 10-15 years. If your dishwasher is close to or beyond this range and requires costly repair, replacing it with a newer, more energy-efficient model may be more suitable.
- Repair costs: Compare the cost of repairs with the price of a new dishwasher. If the repair cost is significantly lower than the cost of a new dishwasher and the unit is relatively young, repairing might be the better option. However, if the repair cost is substantial and the dishwasher is older, replacement might be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Frequency of Repairs: Consider the history of repairs to your dishwasher. If broken down frequently or required repairs over the past few years, it could indicate an underlying problem or general wear and tear. Replacing the unit may be a better investment in reliability and performance.
- Budget and Financial Situation: Evaluate your budget and financial situation. If you are facing unexpected repair costs and a new dishwasher isn’t feasible within your budget, a repair might be a more practical short-term solution.
Weighing these factors will help you make an informed decision that aligns with your circumstances and preferences.
How Long Do Dishwashers Last?
Although dishwashers normally last ten years, 30% of new dishwashers need repairs within the first five years, according to Consumer Reports. If your dishwasher is more than ten years old, replacing it can be more cost-effective than trying to fix it. Since the parts are no longer accessible, older dishwashers may cost more to fix.
How Much Does a New Dishwasher Cost?
Depending on the particular brand and the features you choose, dishwasher prices can vary significantly. Basic dishwashers cost around $400, but more expensive models may cost over $2,000 on average. Costs for installation should also be considered; in a property that currently has hookups, the installation will cost an additional $50 to $100.
How Much Does a Dishwasher Repair Cost?
It will vary depending on the particular issue and the type of dishwasher you have. You will spend roughly $200 on a repair service to remedy a typical dishwasher issue. You can fix certain things yourself for nothing or simply the cost of the parts.
Can You Repair Your Dishwasher?
You can avoid paying for a repair service by carrying out some simple troubleshooting. Perform these tests to see if the issue is genuinely a small one before deciding to repair or replace your dishwasher:
- Check the power connection to ensure the dishwasher receives electricity from your electrical system.
- Ensure that nothing is preventing the door from closing all the way.
- Check for clogs in the internal drain.
- Look for loose connections or cracks in the gaskets and seals that are readily visible.
If the issue isn’t immediately apparent, it could be time to hire a professional dishwasher repair technician from Robs Appliance Plus or begin looking for a new dishwasher.
When Should You Replace a Dishwasher?
You should replace a unit if the cost of repairs is 50% or more than the cost of a new one. Therefore, if replacing your dishwasher costs $500, fixing it should be at most $250.
Another sign that it’s time to get a new dishwasher is if you have had to repair it repeatedly during the past year. An infrequent repair might justify the cost, but when several parts begin to malfunction, the appliance is likely to break down altogether. You can tell if additional parts are on the verge of failing by checking gaskets, seals, drains, and other accessible areas.
Most of the time, it is in your best interest to repair instead of replace—for example, if your dishwasher is relatively new or repairs are affordable.
Do New Dishwashers Provide Energy Savings?
Upgrading to a modern model could have extra benefits if you have an older dishwasher. Newer appliances can reduce operating costs because they are more water and energy-efficient.
Can A Dishwasher Be Made To Last Longer?
You can do various things to help extend an appliance’s life, whether you’re attempting to maintain a brand-new dishwasher or keep an older one working as long as possible.
Although it may be tempting, only wash dishwasher-safe dishes in your dishwasher. If you try to wash toys or car parts in the dishwasher, it can get clogged with things it can’t handle. Once a month, cleaning your dishwasher can help stop accumulation and clogs that could cause worse issues. Regularly remove hard water buildup.
Professional Dishwasher Repair Services
If you are looking for an appliance repair company to fix your dishwasher problems or kitchen appliances, you can count on us at Robs Appliance Plus. Our technicians have experience with household appliance repairs, including refrigerators, freezers, ice makers, ovens, and more.
If you have any questions or want more information, please fill out our contact us form or text (615) 766-4485. You can also email us at robsapplianceplus@protonmail.com.
If you need to talk to someone about a more complex issue, let us know, and we will have a technician or the owner, Rob, call you back between appointments.
