Broken appliance: repair or replace?

Make the situation safe first

Disconnect the appliance if there is smoke, burning smell, leaking water or severe noise, provided this is safe. Note model number, age, error code and symptoms. Check recalls and warranty before opening it or appointing an outside service.

• Photograph the rating plate and receipt
• Check user-accessible filters according to the manual
• Do not open safety covers without expertise
• Compare diagnosis, part, labour and warranty

Compare providers and solutions

Compare repair cost with age, efficiency and expected remaining life. The diagnostic fee should be known in advance and ideally credited if you proceed with repair.