Every now and then, something around the house breaks. It’s only fair, right? Well, now is the time to bring up yet another important question: is it worth fixing, or should we just toss it? In theory, fixing may feel like the frugal, reasonable, and sensible thing to do, especially since it avoids waste.
Even so, it’s simply not worth it for some stuff out there. Some things are just cheaper to buy than to fix. If any of these household staples go on the fritz, we would strongly advise you to buy a new one and not waste any more time and money trying to fix it.
Toasters
Since we live in an era of convenience and efficiency, repairing a toaster can often turn out to be quite a futile endeavor. Well, if your toaster gets “burned out,” then replacing it with a brand-new model is a much better choice.
First, the cost of repairs will constantly rival or even exceed the price of a brand-new one. Small appliances, such as toasters, are meant to be affordable and accessible. In fact, sourcing specific replacement parts for your old one is nothing but an unsound decision.
Moreover, newer toasters have improved technology, plenty of new features, and impressive energy efficiency. Modern toasters also come with enhanced settings, such as precise browning controls, bagel models, and defrosting options. Buying a new one allows you to benefit from such advancements, ensuring a more enjoyable experience in the morning.
Blenders
As far as blenders go, the cost of repairs outweighs the price of a new one. Modern blenders are widely available at different price points, and so many high-quality models are just surprisingly affordable. In contrast, repairs often involve expensive replacement parts, like blades, motors, and seals, which would only make the repair uneconomical.
Second, new blenders often come equipped with advanced technology and improved features. From different speed settings and pre-programmed functions to better safety mechanisms and quieter motors, the latest models were made to enhance your overall blending experience.
Vacuum cleaners
In case your vacuum cleaner breaks down, repairing might automatically seem like the best idea. Well, replacing it with a new model is often a far better option. Repair costs for vacuum cleaners will often be steep, rivaling the price of a brand-new unit, in fact.
All those motors, belts, and filters make the whole thing nothing but an expensive hassle. Newer models have better energy efficiency and durability, which makes them a more sustainable long-term choice. Opting for a brand-new vacuum cleaner provides better performance, peace of mind, as well as improved technology. It’s a practical upgrade.
Microwaves
Repairing a microwave might cost more than buying a new one. With certain issues, such as faulty magnetrons, broken doors, and malfunctioning controls, replacement parts, and other labor fees can really add up right away.
Modern microwaves are definitely more affordable, and they also come with plenty of advanced features like sensor cooking and energy efficiency. Besides, attempting repairs can be unsafe because of their high-voltage components. So you might as well save yourself time, money, and hazard risk by upgrading to a new microwave.
Hair dryers
Hair dryers are also quite inexpensive, even if widely available. Repairing them is rarely worth the time and effort due to numerous issues, including overheating. More often than not, broken fans require replacing components that will end up costing you just as much as a new dryer.
Modern models offer better heat control, impressive ionic technology, and quieter operation. It makes the upgrade more appealing and worth it. Attempting a DIY fix can also be a bit risky because of its electrical components. A new hair dryer is a much safer, more efficient solution.
Electric kettles
Repairing an electric kettle can be impractical; that’s mostly due to the cost of replacement parts such as heating elements and switches. Those small appliances are generally designed to be replaced, not fixed. On top of everything, the newer models are more affordable since they have all these new, advanced features. Wouldn’t you like to have one with faster boiling, better insulation, and energy-saving options? Replacing the broken kettle is generally more economical and ensures a higher-quality performance.
Lamps
Fixing a lamp might sound like the natural way to go about it. After all, it shouldn’t be so hard, right? Well, some replacement parts such as switches, sockets, and wiring might cost almost as much as a new lamp. Modern lamps can also include other features such as adjustable brightness, LED technology, and smart controls. It makes the upgrade more attractive. In the end, even if you might not see it initially, a new lamp is a more practical and cost-effective choice.
Headphones
Repairing your headphones, especially wireless or even noise-canceling models, is probably on top of the unwanted, most expensive things that can happen. Replacing the batteries, cables, or speakers needs specialized parts and tools. New headphones also offer improved sound quality, comfort, and a series of advanced features, including better connectivity and noise isolation. Upgrading equals keeping you away from trouble and granting you the best listening experience. You deserve it.
Non-stick pan
Not to sound judgemental, but who repairs a non-stick pan these days? As soon as the coating is scratched or worn, more often than not, it cannot be restored. If you keep using it might release harmful chemicals. Investing in a new pan ensures safe cooking and better performance. Modern pans often use a more durable, eco-friendly coating, which makes upgrading the healthiest and most practical thing you can do.
TV remotes
A replacement remote will always be cheaper than trying to fix the broken one or digging into your old electronics to find replacement pieces. As a matter of fact, you can easily find the most basic versions for under $10, which is less than the cost of the screwdriver you would use in your diligent attempts to fix your old one.
I know we only have DIY kings and queens over here, but sometimes, it’s just not worth it!
Plastic storage containers
If you’re dealing with cracked or warped lids, then we’d advise you to grab a fresh set. These containers cost so little, that it’s not worth sticking to something when it should be clearly thrown into the trash.
In fact, if you ask us, people who save plastic containers, empty jars, and any other prefabricated storage solutions might give off major hoarder vibes. So for the sake of your family, just throw it out already.
Office chairs
Fixing the broken wheels or armrests might be pricey, especially if you currently have a cheaper model. It’s true that there are many office chairs out there that exceed $100 in price, but there are also less expensive ones that can be bought for less than $50.
They can also be assembled in only ten minutes. While we all know “a penny saved is a penny earned,” Benjamin Franklin himself must have seen you under the chair with a Phillips head screwdriver and just say “Dude, simply buy a new one!”
If you found this article useful, we also recommend checking: 12 Money-Saving Household Tips to Stay on Budget
