RINDGE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) When a refrigerator begins to hum louder than it should or a dishwasher leaves dishes half-clean, homeowners across the Monadnock Region face a familiar choice: repair the old appliance or invest in something new.

It’s a decision that impacts both the household budget and the rhythm of daily life. In this corner of southwestern New Hampshire, where many families keep a close eye on spending and value supporting local businesses, the choice often goes beyond dollars and cents. It becomes a question of efficiency, reliability, sustainability, and community connection.

For more than a decade, Monadnock Appliance in Rindge has been helping residents navigate these decisions. The family-owned business, established in 2010, not only sells appliances but also repairs them, provides replacement parts, and offers delivery and installation. Their technicians see the dilemma firsthand almost every day and have developed clear guidelines to help customers weigh their options.

A Rule of Thumb: The 50 Percent Benchmark

One widely used principle is what the industry calls the 50 percent rule: if a repair costs more than half the price of a new unit, replacement typically makes more sense. While straightforward, the guideline needs context. The age of the appliance, its efficiency, and its repair history all shape whether a repair is truly worthwhile.

For instance, a dishwasher that is approaching its 10th year and needs a major part replaced may be a poor investment. But a newer refrigerator with a minor problem might still have many good years left once repaired.

How Long Appliances Last

Understanding average life expectancy is central to the repair-or-replace decision. Refrigerators usually last between 12 and 15 years, though expensive breakdowns become more likely after year 10. Washers and dryers often run reliably for 10 to 12 years, while dishwashers tend to last closer to 8 or 10 years. Ranges and ovens are typically the most durable, often working for 15 to 20 years. Gas appliances, however, bring safety considerations into the equation that can make replacement the better choice, even if repairs are technically possible.

These benchmarks don’t guarantee performance—some machines quit earlier, while others keep running far past expectations—but they offer a useful framework. A repair that extends an appliance’s life by several more years may be worthwhile, while one that buys only a few extra months may not be.

Energy Costs Add Another Layer

The question of energy efficiency also factors heavily into the equation. Electricity rates in New England tend to run higher than the national average, which makes operating older appliances particularly costly. A refrigerator that is 15 years old might use double the electricity of a new Energy Star model, adding hundreds of dollars in annual utility expenses.

Similarly, replacing an older washer with a modern high-efficiency unit can reduce both water and power use, saving a household $100 to $200 a year. Over time, those savings can make a replacement the more financially responsible choice, even if a repair would keep the old machine running.

Weighing Reliability and Convenience

Reliability is another important consideration. Even when repair costs appear reasonable on paper, the inconvenience of repeated breakdowns can take its toll. Appliances that have needed multiple service calls in a short span often indicate deeper problems that are unlikely to go away.

Modern appliances also bring features that make everyday life easier. Quieter operation, greater capacity, and smart technology are increasingly common in newer models. For families juggling work, school, and busy schedules, those conveniences can be an additional reason to move on from an older unit.

A Local Business With a Practical Approach

What sets the Monadnock Region apart is its emphasis on community. Many residents prefer to work with nearby businesses that know the area and its needs. Monadnock Appliance has built its reputation on providing straightforward guidance rather than pushing customers toward unnecessary sales.

The approach is practical: first, diagnose the problem. Then, provide a clear assessment of how long the repair is likely to last, what future issues may arise, and how the costs of repair and replacement compare over the long term. From there, homeowners can decide whether repairing will deliver real value or whether it makes more sense to replace.

Finding the Right Balance

For families across the Monadnock Region, deciding whether to repair or replace an appliance is rarely a simple calculation. It’s a balancing act that combines cost, efficiency, reliability, and values. Repairing extends the life of existing machines and reduces waste, while replacement can cut down on utility bills and bring added convenience.

The most effective starting point is often a professional evaluation. With a clear picture of what a repair entails, households can determine whether it will provide years of reliable service or just a short reprieve before the next breakdown.

In the end, the choice is about more than keeping food cold or clothes clean. It’s about making an informed decision that fits both the practical needs of the household and the values of a region where community and sustainability matter just as much as convenience.