When a washing machine breaks, dirty clothes can pile up.
Washing machines have been chugging away, washing the laundry of families and businesses, for more than 150 years. According to Procter & Gamble, the first hand-powered washing machine was invented in 1851. Laundry became a simpler task when the homemaker no longer had to scrub clothing by hand in the backyard. When the washing machine no longer functions, concern can lead to panic over not only mounds of dirty laundry, but over the expense of costly repairs or replacements. Deciding on repair or replacement of the washing machine is sometimes a complicated situation. Here's what to consider in your decision. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Go through the manufacturer's troubleshooting guide or instruction manual. Locate the make/model number on the lid, side or back of the washing machine. If the guide is missing, search for the appliance website. If there is no troubleshooting guide, contact customer service.
2. Assess the situation. If the washing machine is still not functioning, call a professional repairman. If you know the problem, tell him. If you think you know the problem, discuss it. If you don't know the problem, let him know.
3. Ask for a quote. Do not commit to an appointment. Ask what the charges will be by the hour for labor and mileage. Ask how much the parts cost. Ask what the total bill will be. If you don't know the problem, ask the charge to assess the problem (not repair it). Ask what the company hours are. If you have to miss work, figure lost wages into the repair bill.
4. Get a second opinion. Let the second repairman know the other company's quote. Sometimes one company will beat the price of another company. Always ask for the quote in writing.
5. Look up the price of the same make/model number or a comparable machine. Make a list of prices. Figure in delivery costs.
6. Compare the quote for the assessment, the quote for repair and the costs of new washing machines. Take into consideration the other aspects such as lost wages.
7. Consider the age of the washing machine. According to Appliance.net, the average lifespan of a washing machine is 12 years. Sometimes the cost of repairing an old machine is more than a new one.
8. Ask for help. Consult a home improvement store representative's opinion. Give him the facts: machine age, make/model number, quotes and comparable washing machine prices with delivery. The home improvement store worker isn't as biased as the repairman who wants your repair business.
9. Make a decision weighing cost, time involved in repair and/or in the delivery and installation of a new appliance, and determine what's best for the household budget.
Tags: washing machine, know problem, washing machine, make model, make model number, model number
