The stove is one of the most important appliances in your house. So, when my stove started to have big problems, I needed to decide, should I repair or replace my stove? After digging into the issue, here’s what I found.
As a general rule, it will be cheaper for you to repair a stove. Installing a replacement part will often cost around $50 to $400. A new stove will be between $450 to $1,500. However, if the stove is facing a major problem or is over 15 years old, it might be best to replace it.
Repairing or replacing can be a big financial decision. Either way, you’ll end up paying hundreds of dollars. Let’s look at some of the things that you need to know before you make your choice.
What Are The Most Common Stove Issues?
There are several things that go wrong with your stove. Some of these will be minor issues that you can fix yourself. Others will be major problems that might require professional help.
One of the first issues that you might face is that the gas burner isn’t lighting. There are a few reasons why this might be happening. First, the burners might be blocked with debris. This stops the gas from coming through, making it harder to ignite. If this is not the problem, check the ignition switch.
If the burner still isn’t igniting, it could be a sign that there is an issue with your gas connection. In this case, you’ll often need to call in a professional to check the connections for you. This will make sure that everything is working properly.
Testing and Unclogging Burners
In other cases, you might notice that your electric burners aren’t heating up. To test whether this is a serious problem, try turning on multiple burners. If the issue is isolated to one, it’s likely an issue with that burner. You might need to replace the coil. However, if none of the burners are heating, it could indicate an electrical problem. In this case, you’ll need to call in a professional to examine your wiring.
If you have a gas burner that isn’t heating up properly, it might be clogged with debris. This means that the flames will only be small and weak. You might need to use a toothpick, poking it into the burner. This will help remove the blockages. Then, scrub the burner clean. If this doesn’t solve the issue, you’ll need to check the connection.
Major Stove Problems
A bigger problem might be a crack on the stove’s surface. This means that it will no longer be safe to use. Often, the only solution to this problem is to replace the stove.
Finally, the control panel might stop working. This is the most important part of the stove, allowing you to control how hot it gets. Without a functioning control panel, it will be difficult to use the stove properly. It’s also one of the most complex components. Repairs will tend to be very expensive. Generally, it will be cheaper to replace the stove.
When you spot a problem, refer to the owner’s manual. This will often give you some guidance about what you should do next. In many cases, it will outline the procedure to replace the broken part.
How Long Does a Stove Last?
Most appliances will have a lifespan. While they might still work after the end of their useful life, it’s usually best to replace them. The older they get, the more likely that they will start to develop problems. Also, technology has usually improved. Devices will come with more features and cost less to run.
The lifespan of a stove will often vary slightly, depending on the type of unit that you are using. Electric models will usually last for around 13 years. On the other hand, a gas model will last for around 15 years.
How to Extend Your Stove’s Life
Regular maintenance can be the best way to extend the lifespan of your device. There are a few simple things to do to keep the stove in good condition. First, try to keep it clean. You can use a cleaning solution made from either vinegar or baking soda. Make sure that the gas burners aren’t blocked up. If they are, you might need to use a toothpick to gently remove the blockage. You can remove these parts and put them in the dishwasher. When cleaning, avoid using metal tools. These will scratch the paintwork.
Try to avoid pouring water onto a gas stove, as this can block up the gas lines. Don’t forget about the drip pan. These are under the grates and collect the ingredients that you spill while cooking. Try to clean these out at least once a month, to stop them from overflowing. Remember to lift the top grate when cleaning. This will allow you to find and remove any hidden debris. Maintenance can also be a great way of spotting problems, addressing them before they become big issues.
How Much Does it Cost to Repair a Stove?
One of the biggest things that you’ll need to think about is how much it will cost you to repair the stove. There are a few things that you’ll need to consider.
First, it will depend on the type of repair that you need to do. As we mentioned earlier, there is a range of issues that you might be facing. Replacing a broken part often won’t take long. If you have the right tools, you might be able to do it yourself. If not, you will need to call in a professional. Typically, the costs of the parts will be very low. Most will cost between $10 to $450.
You’ll also need to think about the costs associated with hiring a repairman. You will often need to pay them by the hour. It’s also likely that you’ll be charged a call-out fee. Once you factor these costs in, you might be expected to pay between $50 to $200 for labor. Because of this, it’s usually cheaper to repair a broken stove than to purchase a new one.
Will Repairs be Covered by the Warranty?
Warranties are designed to protect new appliances from defects. To find out if your device is covered by a warranty, there are a few things that you can do. First, you might want to check the owner’s manual. This will often list when the warranty period starts and ends. You can also talk to the retailer. If you’re still unsure, check the manufacturer’s website.
If the device is still covered by a warranty, you might be able to get a lower repair bill. The manufacturer will often be responsible for any defects that you might experience during this period. To make a claim, you’ll need to get in touch with them. Lay out the problem. They will then tell you what to do next. In most cases, they’ll send a repairman to look at it and fix the stove. Often, you’ll just need to pay the call-out fee, the manufacturer will cover the rest of the costs.
However, there are a few things that might void the warranty. First, it might void the warranty if you were using the stove improperly. It’s also possible that you might not have been maintaining it properly, according to the instructions in the owner’s manual. In these cases, you’ll need to pay for the repairs yourself.
How Much Does it Cost to Purchase a New Stove?
Once you have a quote for repairing the stove, you’ll be able to compare it with the costs of buying a new model. When you start looking at new stoves, you’ll quickly discover that there is a range of costs.
The prices will often depend on the features of the product. For example, some will only have basic features. Newer models, though, rely on premium features to distinguish themselves from the other options on the market. For example, you might be able to find a model that works through Wi-Fi, letting you control the temperature remotely. Some might even have built-in timers, turning off the heat automatically.
However, the biggest price factor is the type of stove that you choose to purchase. There are three main options. First, you can have an electric model. These often tend to be the cheapest to install. You might also want to consider getting a gas stove. Finally, you can choose an induction stove. These tend to be the most expensive model.
The prices of a new stove will often vary. As a general rule, a more basic model will start at around $400 while the more expensive models will cost $1,500.
Remember These Stove Pricing Factors
It’s also important to consider some of the other costs that will be associated with purchasing a new stove. For example, you might be expected to pay shipping costs. It’s also possible that you’ll need to pay someone to come and install it for you. This will ensure that it’s been put in properly. In some cases, you might need to put in new gas lines or modify existing ones. This will require you to use the services of a professional. Often, this will cost around $150.
There are some ways to make the install process easier. You’ll need to measure the size of the existing appliance. Then try to match this when purchasing the new one. This will ensure that you don’t need to redesign cabinetry. It can also make it easier for you to make the necessary connections, particularly if you’re choosing a gas appliance.
Before you purchase, clarify whether the installation will be included or if this is something that you’ll need to pay for yourself. In most cases, the supplier will include the price of delivery and installation in the purchase price. But this won’t always be the case. Double-check so you know how much to budget.
Should I Purchase an Electric or Gas Stove?
When you’re purchasing a new stove, you’ll need to decide whether you want to get an electric or a gas model. There are pros and cons to each approach. Let’s briefly look at some of the things that you’ll need to weigh up.
One of the biggest benefits of an electric stove is how convenient it is to use. It will be easier for you to clean up any spills that you make. They also tend to have the sleekest appearance. They are cheaper to purchase than a gas model. However, there are a few negatives to consider. For example, you won’t be able to use them during a power outage. Also, gas tends to cook food more evenly, which is why most professional chefs use gas stoves.
Next, you might want to get a new gas stove. One of the biggest benefits is that gas stoves are cheaper to run than electric ones. Also, as long as you have a match, you’ll be able to use the gas stove during a power outage. However, if you don’t have gas, it can be expensive to put in new lines. Cleaning a gas stove might be a bit more difficult than an electric model.
Final Thoughts
When trying to decide whether or not you should repair or replace your stove, there are multiple things to consider. In most cases, though, it will be better to repair it. It’s often cheaper to keep the existing model going than it will be for you to purchase and install a new one.
However, if you have an older model, it might be approaching the end of its life. The average stove will last for around 14 years. After this, it might be a good idea to consider replacing it with a more modern device. Hopefully, you’ll be able to use this advice to decide what to do when you start to experience problems with your stove.