Appliances make daily life easier, which is why you want them to last as long as possible. With regular use and normal wear and tear, however, old appliances eventually stop functioning properly. An appliance repair can often return your device to working order, but replacing it may be more cost-effective in certain cases. Here are some common appliances and how to tell when they’re beyond fixing. 

A Guide to Replacing Your Appliances

1. Kitchen Range

A good-quality kitchen range has a life span of approximately 15 years. When your range is getting up in age and the costs of appliance repairs are more than half the price of a new one, a replacement may be the best option. You might also consider replacing the stove if it is having issues heating up. If the flame on your gas stove flickers yellow, red, or orange rather than blue, this is a sign of incomplete combustion and a serious safety hazard. Try cleaning the burner. If the problem persists, you will need a new range.

2. Washing Machine and Dryer

Excessive noise and shaking during a cycle is the most noticeable sign that a washer and dryer are on their way out. A washing machine in need of replacement may leak water, or water might not fill the drum at all. Older dryers can produce a burning smell and might not dry your clothes completely. If your dryer is defective, it could also become a fire risk.

3. Air Conditioner

You need your air conditioner to keep your home comfortable on hot summer days. If the AC is not fulfilling its one job, it might be due to clogs in your ductwork or air filters restricting airflow. When clearing the blockages doesn't work, a replacement might be in order. 

Many homeowners also decide to upgrade when their energy bills start to climb. New models are more energy-efficient than ever, so lower monthly bills often make up for the cost of installation. Loud grinding, squeaking, or squealing sounds may also warrant a new AC.

4. Refrigerator

Despite being a necessity for every kitchen, refrigerators are often forgotten when it comes to appliance maintenance. Once your fridge approaches 10 years of use, be on the lookout for growing problems. If there is a lot of visible condensation, excessive noise, or the back of the refrigerator is hot, an appliance repair or replacement may be necessary. Food spoiling quickly is a major sign that your fridge is unable to maintain a food-safe temperature and needs to be replaced.

When your household appliances can be saved with repairs, turn to Nicely’s Appliance Repair in Erlanger, KY. This local, family-owned business offers professional appliance repairs and top-quality parts, as well as complete heating and cooling services. They boast one of the highest inventories of appliance parts in Northern Kentucky, providing you with the tools you need to keep your devices running smoothly and efficiently. Call (859) 342-9900 or visit their website for more information about products and services.