Let’s face it, when your fridge stops cooling or your washer starts making that “is-it-trying-to-take-off?” sound, the last thing you want is another headache. Vancouver homeowners deal with this dilemma all the time: Should you repair or replace the appliance? In this guide, we’ll break it all down for you with a local twist. We’ll cover common appliance issues, repair vs. replace tips, and answer some of the internet’s burning questions. Whether it’s fridge repair in Vancouver or a noisy dryer in Kitsilano, we’ve got you covered.
Appliances Worth Repairing: What's the Rule of Thumb?
As a general guideline, if the repair costs less than 50% of the price of a new appliance and it’s not nearing the end of its lifespan, it’s worth fixing. A quick call to an appliance repair expert in Vancouver (like EasyFix) can help you make the decision quickly.
For example:
Fridge Repair Vancouver: Refrigerators are pricey to replace, and if the compressor or fan motor is fixable, repairs can save you a lot (depending on the brand).
Washer Repair Vancouver: Front loaders often suffer from broken door locks or drainage issues, relatively minor and worth fixing.
Dryer Repair Vancouver: If it’s not heating, it could be the thermal fuse or heating element, common and repairable issues.
Is It Worth Repairing a 20-Year-Old Appliance?
Short answer: usually not. Long answer: maybe, if it’s a high-end appliance, it hasn’t needed many repairs over the years, and parts are still available.
Here in Vancouver, we see a lot of Sub-Zero fridges and Miele dishwashers that are over 15 years old but still chugging along. But if you’re calling for dishwasher repair in Vancouver every few months on a 20-year-old unit, it’s probably time to retire it.
What Appliances Break Down the Most?
We service a lot of homes across East Van, Burnaby, and West Vancouver, and we’ve noticed a few trends:
Dishwashers – They hate Vancouver’s hard water. Scale build-up kills heating elements fast.
Dryers – Lint buildup and overworked heating elements are a common issue, especially in older condos.
Stoves and Ranges – Burners that won’t heat? It’s often a simple fix.
Fridges – They’re running 24/7. Wear and tear is inevitable, especially with older seals or bad fans.
If your appliance is under 10 years old and breaks down for the first time, chances are it’s worth repairing.
Vancouver Realities: Why Location Matters in Repair Decisions
Living in Vancouver isn’t cheap. Neither are new appliances. Delivery and installation fees can add hundreds to your replacement cost. On top of that, getting rid of the old unit? Not always free. EasyFix offers appliance repair in Vancouver and surrounding cities like Burnaby, Richmond, and Coquitlam, often with same or next-day service.
That makes a $200-500 fridge repair sound a lot more appealing than a $2,000 new unit and a week of soggy takeout.
Eco-Conscious Choices: Repairing Is Greener
Did you know that over 50,000 tonnes of appliances get dumped each year in Canada? Vancouverites tend to be eco-conscious (we see you, composters of Mount Pleasant), and keeping your appliance out of the landfill just makes sense. Repairing instead of replacing supports sustainability, and local business.
How to Tell When to Call a Pro
If you notice these signs, it’s time to call in the pros:
Strange noises or burning smells
Leaks or puddles around the unit
Electrical problems or tripping breakers
Food not staying cold in the fridge
Dryer spinning but no heat
EasyFix offers fast, honest appliance repair Vancouver homeowners trust. We repair all major brands: Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, GE, Bosch, KitchenAid, Maytag, Frigidaire, and more.
Cost of Appliance Repair in Vancouver
Most repairs range from $200 to $395 depending on the issue. Here’s a general idea:
Fridge repair: $195–$500
Washer repair: $195–$350
Dryer repair: $195–$380
Dishwasher repair: $195–$375
Stove repair: $195–$300
Diagnostics are usually around $139–$179, but at EasyFix, that fee is waived if you go ahead with the repair.
What About Warranty?
Many appliance repairs in Vancouver are done on units that are just out of warranty. But if your appliance is under 1 year old, check the manufacturer’s warranty, you might be eligible for a free fix.
At EasyFix, we back our repairs with a 90-day workmanship warranty and use high-quality OEM parts.
Final Verdict: Repair or Replace?
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
| Appliance Age | Problem | Repair? |
|---|---|---|
| Under 5 yrs | First issue | Yes |
| 5–10 yrs | Minor part issue | Yes |
| 10–15 yrs | Major repair | Maybe |
| 15–20 yrs | Recurring breakdowns | Probably not |
Need Appliance Repair in Vancouver?
If you’re stuck wondering what to do with your misbehaving fridge, leaky washer, or noisy dryer, give EasyFix Appliance Repair a call. We serve the entire Vancouver area and beyond, including Burnaby, Richmond, Coquitlam, New Westminster, and West Van.
Schedule service online or call us at 778-723-2456. We’ll help you make the right call: fix it, or replace it. Either way, we’ll make it easy.
Bonus Tip:
Want to keep your appliances running longer? Check out our maintenance checklist HERE