The 50% Rule: A Simple Starting Point
The most widely used rule of thumb in the appliance industry is this: if the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a comparable new machine, you are usually better off replacing it. So if a new washing machine costs £400, and the repair quote comes in at more than £200, buying new starts to make sense.
But this rule is a blunt instrument. There are several other factors that should shape your decision.
Age of the Machine
The average washing machine lasts 10–12 years with regular use. If your machine is more than 8 years old and needs a major repair, the maths rarely works in favour of fixing it — not because the repair itself is too expensive, but because you are likely to face further failures soon. Older machines also tend to be less energy efficient, so a new A-rated model could cut your energy bills by £30–£60 per year.
If your machine is under 5 years old, repair almost always makes financial sense — especially if it is a mid-range or premium brand.
How Much Did You Pay for It?
A £200 budget machine that needs a £120 repair is a clear replace case. A £600 Bosch or Siemens that needs a £150 repair is just as clearly worth fixing — you are protecting a significant investment, and quality machines tend to have better parts availability and longer lifespans post-repair.
| Machine value | Repair threshold (50% rule) | Verdict at £150 repair |
|---|---|---|
| £200 budget model | £100 | Replace |
| £350 mid-range | £175 | Repair |
| £550 quality brand | £275 | Repair |
| £900 premium | £450 | Repair |
What Type of Fault Is It?
Not all faults are equal. A worn drum seal, a broken pump, or worn carbon brushes are all mechanical faults — they have a known, finite cost to fix and the repair has a high success rate. An intermittent electronic fault or a failing control board is trickier: the parts cost is high, diagnosis can take time, and there is always a risk the fault recurs.
Ask your engineer to be honest about whether the repair is likely to last — a good technician will tell you if the machine is reaching end of life regardless of the repair.
Environmental Considerations
Manufacturing a new washing machine generates significant carbon — estimates suggest around 220–240 kg of CO₂ for production alone. If your machine can be repaired and run for another 3–5 years, the environmental case for repair is strong, even if the financial case is marginal.
Our Recommendation
Get a diagnosis before making any decision. A reputable engineer will give you an honest assessment of the machine and the likely repair cost. Once you have that, you can apply the 50% rule, factor in the age, and make an informed choice. Most repair quotes are free or included in the call-out fee — there is no downside to finding out exactly what you are dealing with first.