Is Repairing Your Washing Machine Worth It? A Practical Guide

When a washing machine is a household appliance that cleans clothes by tumbling them in water and detergent breaks down, the first thought is often to buy a new one. But before you rush to the showroom, pause and ask: is it worth repairing? This guide walks you through the numbers, the common problems, and the hidden factors that decide whether a repair will pay off.

Quick Takeaways

• Repair is usually economical if the machine is less than 8years old and the fault costs underAU$300.
• Typical repair costs: motorAU$150‑200, drum bearingsAU$120‑180, control boardAU$200‑250.
• Energy‑efficient models (rated 4‑5 stars) save enough on electricity to offset a modest repair within 2‑3years.
• Environmental impact: fixing extends the appliance’s life, cutting landfill waste by up to 70%.
• Use the checklist below to decide quickly.

How to Evaluate the Cost‑Benefit Ratio

Start with three numbers: the age of the machine, the estimated repair cost, and the price of a comparable new unit. Here’s a simple formula:

1. Calculate the remaining useful life. Most washing machines are designed for about10‑12years of service.
2. Divide the repair cost by the remaining years. This gives you an annual repair‑cost rate.
3. Compare that rate to the annual energy savings of a newer, higher‑efficiency model.

If the annual repair‑cost rate is lower than the energy savings, repair makes financial sense. Otherwise, replacement is the smarter move.

Common Faults and Typical Repair Prices (2025 Australia)

Knowing the usual culprits helps you estimate the bill before a technician arrives. Below are the top five problems and their average costs in today’s market.

These figures come from a survey of Perth‑area repair shops in Q32025. Labor rates average AU$90 per hour, and parts are sourced from OEM or reputable aftermarket suppliers.

Decision Checklist - Should You Repair?

Use this quick filter before calling a technician.

• Age: Is the machine under 8years old?
• Cost estimate: Is the quoted repair underAU$300 (or 25% of a new unit’s price)?
• Frequency: Has the appliance needed multiple repairs in the past 12months?
• Energy rating: Does the current model have a 3‑star rating or lower?
• Availability of parts: Are OEM parts still being produced?

If you tick most boxes, a repair is likely worthwhile. If the machine is over 10years, the cost estimate hits the high end, or you notice recurring faults, start looking at replacements.

Finding a Reliable Repair Technician

Not every handyman can fix a modern, electronic‑controlled washer. Look for these qualifications:

1. Australian Business Number (ABN) and proper insurance.
2. Certification from the Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air‑Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) or equivalent.
3. Positive reviews on local platforms such as ProductReview.com.au and Google.
   • Check for consistent 4‑star or higher ratings over at least 20 reviews.
   • Pay attention to comments about transparent pricing and on‑site diagnostics.
4. Warranty on the repair - reputable services offer at least 12months on parts and labour.

Ask for a written quote that breaks down labour and parts. This helps you compare offers and avoid hidden fees.

Environmental Impact - Why Repair Can Be Greener

Australia generates roughly 10% of its landfill volume from discarded appliances each year. Extending a washing machine’s life by even two years avoids:

• ≈150kg of steel and plastic waste.
• 3‑5% of the carbon footprint associated with manufacturing a new unit.
• Reduced demand for raw materials, which lowers mining and processing emissions.

If you’re eco‑conscious, factor these numbers into your decision. A modest repair that costs AU$200 can prevent the environmental cost of a new machine priced at AU$1,200.

When Replacement Is the Smart Move

Even the best repair won’t help if the underlying technology is obsolete. Consider buying new when:

• The machine is older than 10‑12years and lacks a 4‑star energy rating.
• Repair estimates exceed AU$500, or multiple components need replacement.
• Frequent breakdowns have become the norm, indicating worn internal systems.
• You’re planning a remodel and want a built‑in, stackable unit that matches modern cabinetry.

In these scenarios, a newer model with a 5‑star rating can cut annual electricity use by up to 30%, translating into roughly AU$120 savings per year in Perth’s current rates.

Bottom Line: The Simple Rule of Thumb

If your washing machine is under 8years old, the repair cost is less than a quarter of a new model’s price, and the fault isn’t a recurring issue, go ahead and fix it. Otherwise, start shopping for a replacement that’s energy‑efficient and backed by a solid warranty.