At a Glance:
6 Common Problems with Washing Machines
Cost of Washing Machines Repairs
Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Washing Machine
Top 3 Washing Machines This Year
Why Trust Us?
It is frustrating when your washing machine fails. If you are having issues with your washing machine right now, you are probably asking yourself, "Is it cheaper to repair or replace a washing machine?" The cost of washer repairs is dependent on which part is broken. Some problems, like a cracked drain hose, are easy to fix. Other features are too expensive to repair, like motors and drums. That's why our specialists from Aztec Appliance have compiled the most common issues a washer has, along with which are fixable and which ones you're better of buying a new washing machine. We've also included some washer suggestions to replace your old, broken one.
Related: Aztec's Best Washing Machine Brands for 2021
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6 Common Problems with Washing Machines
It is inevitable that, at some point, you will have problems with your washing machine. However, before you decide if it is cheaper to repair or replace a washing machine, you need to identify what is broken. The most common washing machine issues homeowners deal with are:
- Smelly. A typical complaint consumers have with their washing machine is that it smells. If your washing machine has an odor, there is probably mold and mildew in the drum, hose, or detergent dispenser. Cleaning your washing machine once a month will combat smells and keep mold away. Severe mold and mildew are difficult to eliminate and may require buying a replacement washing machine.
- Noisy. There are several reasons why your washing machine makes a lot of noise. If you hear gurgling sounds, there is a water flow problem. Check for clogs and cracked hoses. Jammed pumps cause humming noises. Loose change and socks can get stuck in the pump and cause significant damage.
- Leaking. Stepping in a puddle on your laundry room floor is definitely a sign to look for a washer repair service. Washing machines can leak because of a clogged drain, cracked hose, or damaged door gasket. Overloading the washing machine can also cause leaking, but if your machine is level, your water problem is most likely caused by a broken fixture in the machine.
- Vibrating. If your washing machine is vibrating heavily throughout the majority of the wash cycle, there is something wrong with your washer. Common causes of intense washing machine vibration are that the machine is not level, the laundry load is too large, and the feet of the appliance are not all on the ground.
- Won't run. A washing machine that doesn't work is entirely useless. However, sometimes this problem is easily fixed. Damaged water inlet valves and lid latches will stop the washer from turning on. A more expensive cause of this issue is damaged washing machine motors.
- Won't drain. A frequent complaint homeowners make to washing machine repair professionals is that the washer drum remains full of water even after the cycle is completed. Draining problems can be caused by a clog in the drain hose, too much detergent, or a broken pump.
Cost of Washing Machines Repairs
In order to decide if it is cheaper to repair or replace a washing machine, you need to know the average cost of common washer repairs. Prices of repairs can vary based on the washing machine's manufacturer, availability of parts, and labor rates in your area.
- Drain Hose. The average cost of replacing a drain hose on your washing machine is $130.
- New Pump. Replacing your washing machine pump is expensive and will cost at least $300 for parts and labor.
- Lid Switch. This is a relatively simple repair. On average, washing machine repair services charge $120 to supply and replace a lid switch.
- Gasket. Unless your washing machine is old, replacing a door gasket is a rare washer repair. The going rate for a gasket replacement is $250.
- Drum. Unfortunately, the drum is the most expensive of all the possible washing machine replacement parts. Expect to spend at least $400 on a washing machine drum replacement.
- Water Inlet Valve. The water inlet valve is an essential part of your washer and is cheap to fix. The average cost to replace a water inlet valve is $140.
- Electronic Control Board. Control board repairs on washers can vary. Depending on the severity of the damage, this service will run anywhere from $150 to $300.
- Motor Belt. A motor belt replacement is another low-cost washer repair. Professional washing machine repair service providers will charge around $150 to swap out this part.
Signs It Is Time to Replace Your Washing Machine
The cost to repair a washing machine varies by manufacturer and the type of damaged part. Several parts are very expensive and usually not worth replacing. The top three most costly components and related labor will cost more than half the price of a new washing machine. They are:
- drums
- pumps
- motors
Consumer Reports issued some helpful guidelines to determine whether or not it is time to consider purchasing a new washing machine. In addition, they use the purchase price of the washer and the appliance's age to aid consumers in making repair decisions.
- Washing machines under $900 will need repairs within four to six years. After six years of use, it is better to replace the washer.
- Customers who paid $900-$1100 for their washer can expect to encounter problems within 5-7 years of use. You should consider a replacement after 8-9 years.
- High-end washing machines last the longest. Washing machines that cost more than $1,100 can last up to 10 years and usually don't need repairing for the first seven years of use.
As a general rule, if an appliance requires three repairs within a short time span, it is time to replace the machine. However, once parts begin to fail, it is only a matter of time before more issues arise. Therefore, it is always important to look at all factors before deciding if it is cheaper to repair or replace a washing machine.
Top 3 Washing Machines This Year
If your washing machine is too old or you have to call in a washing machine repair service near San Diego every month — it's time to replace it. Here are our top three washing machine selections that our customers just love to rave about.
Top Samsung Washing Machine: Bespoke 8700 Series Front Load Washer
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The Bespoke washing machine combines a sleek and modern design with high-tech functionality. Some of the top features of the Samsung Bespoke Front Load Washer include:
- Big load capacity at 5.3 Cu. Ft.
- Super Speed Wash cycle gets clothes cleaned within 28 minutes
- Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to control the washer from your smartphone
- 20-year warranty on the motor
- Vibration reduction technology
- Stain erasing steam cycle
- Self-cleaning function
The Samsung Bespoke 8700 Washer is a customer favorite. It has over 62 reviews with an average rating of 4.9 stars! In October 2022, user "LoveIT" rated this Samsung washing machine 5 out of 5 stars and said:
"Love it! Purchased the Bespoke 5.3 cu. ft. Ultra Capacity Washer 3 months ago and we love it! The intuitive dial is easy to use and provides many options for various load settings. It was easy to set up and operates quietly."
Top Electrolux Washing Machine: Electrolux 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer
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Consumers love this washing machine from Electrolux because of its groundbreaking sanitation and cleaning cycles. The top features of this washing machine are:
- 15-Minute Fast Wash Cycle
- Multiple stain-fighting preset cycles, including Perfect Steam, StainTreat, and Solid Soil level options
- Activewear Cycle
- Allergen-fighting cycle
- 10-year washing machine motor warranty and lifetime tub warranty
- Perfect balance guarantee
- Adaptive detergent dispenser
The Electrolux 4.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Washer has been reviewed over 2,200 times. Customers have given it an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars! In December 2022, user "Jason61" gave this Electrolux washer a perfect score and wrote:
"Tons of Options! We have had our washer for a couple weeks now. We run loads 6 out of 7 days a week and have been ecstatic with its performance. The washer is very quiet and it has so many options that have yet to use them all. The drainage system is definitely better than LG/Kenmore. Couldn't be more pleased with our purchase, especially after finding how to silence the chime."
Top LG Washing Machine: LG 5.5 Cu. Ft. White Top Load Washer
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This affordable LG washer has top-of-the-line technology capabilities. Easily connect your smartphone to the ThinQ app and control your washing machine from anywhere. In addition, LG included the following features in this washer model:
- TurboWash3D cycle that provides strong water flow for the ultimate clean
- ThinQ smartphone app connectivity option
- ColdWash™ Technology
- NeverRust™ Stainless Steel Drum
- Direct Drive Motor 10-Year Limited Warranty
- ENERGY STAR® Certified
Customers rate this LG washing machine an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars. And in December 2022, after purchasing this washer, user tomchearated it five stars and said:
"Great Washer. I bought this a month ago and it works great so far. It automatically detected the load of clothing you put in. I have not tried the wifi option yet. So far I love it."
Like most major appliances, a washing machine is a significant investment, so understandably, you would want to get as many years out of it as possible. However, that washing machine you've had since your first home may be on its last legs, and it might be time to start looking for a new laundry appliance. That's why we wanted to answer the question: 'is it cheaper to repair or replace a washing machine?' Ultimately it is up to you and what your budget can handle, but if you are in the market for a new washer, stop by Aztec Appliance today or browse our laundry appliance inventory online to get all the information you need on each model.
Why Trust Aztec Appliance?
Since 1972, Aztec Appliance has been offering quality sales and service for name-brand appliances. Our mission is to not only help you achieve all your appliance dreams, but we also want to bring value to your home beyond materialistic amenities. Our team is an authentic group of people dedicated to our work, and we share the same undeniable passion for people and serving them the best we can. Suffice it to say, we know appliances.
Whether it's a first birthday, a backyard wedding, or a retirement celebration, our hope is to give you the opportunity to enjoy life's little moments. After all, memories are not consigned to the big moments — they exist within the little ones. And you can rest assured our inventory of top-performing kitchen, laundry, and outdoor appliances will help you spend less time keeping the home and more time with the people who make it home.
Shop Washing Machines at Aztec
Don't put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop laundry appliance online for the guaranteed lowest price at Aztec. Check out Aztec Appliance reviews, and if you have questions, our friendly product experts are always happy to help you answer more questions like, 'is it cheaper to repair or replace a washing machine' — whether you call us at 858-987-5777 or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by our Aztec Appliance San Diego showroom located at the heart of downtown. Visit us today!
Learn More: LG Appliances Reviews [Buying Guide]
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