Replacing home appliances

When should you make that new purchase?
Is it worth fixing or should you just invest in a new one?

Consumer Guides wants has some advice on when to replace products.
Their research takes into account the product’s age, typical repair and replacement costs, and improvements in new models.

Generally, if a product costs less than $150 to replace, or if repairs would cost more than half the price of a new model, it’s smarter to replace it.

4 years
Digital cameras
32-inch picture-tube TVs

5 years
Camcorders
36-inch picture-tube TVs
Computers
Gas push mowers

6 years
Dishwashers
Over-the-range microwaves
Top-freezer refrigerators
Upright vacuums

7 years
Clothes dryers
Gas self-propelled mowers
Top-loader washers

8 years
Bottom-freezer and side-by-side refrigerators
Canister vacuums
Electric or gas ranges
Electric wall ovens
Front-loader washers

Of course, all this has a lot to do with how much you use an items. If you tend to do a lot of laundry, you may need to replace your washer sooner. And, these suggestions are representative of an average product, not specific brands. When it comes to appliances, you usually are better off spending your money on the big names. Which ones? Do your research!