Is it worth replacing the bearings on a washing machine or is it better to buy a new one?
Replacing washing machine bearings is a fairly expensive procedure. The question is especially acute in relation to an old washing machine, because it is not clear whether it is wise to change the bearings of a washing machine or is it better to buy a new one? Is there any point in expensive maintenance or would it be a waste of money? The decision is made based on several factors, which we have outlined below.
Repair or throw away?
When the budget is limited, it is necessary first of all to evaluate the profitability of both options. Sometimes repairs turn out to be a completely unreasonable idea, and it’s easier to throw away the washing machine and buy a new one instead. Much depends on the following circumstances.
Estimate how old the equipment is and its cost. For example, you have been using an Indesit washing machine for 6-7 years, which you bought for $100. In this case, we can say with confidence that it has exhausted its capabilities, so it is mercilessly sent to the landfill. On the other hand, expensive brands (Bosh, Electrolux, Siemens, etc.) costing $200 or more can be repaired and will last for several more years.
Important! There is no point in investing $30-40 in repairing a cheap washing machine, because after that it will not work for very long.
Type of tank - collapsible or not. If your washing machine has a solid drum, repairs will cost much more. However, there is no guarantee that the tank will not leak during use. It’s better to refuse repairs and get a new washing machine.
Can you replace the bearings yourself?If, using detailed instructions, a home technician can repair a washing machine, this will reduce the cost of repair by 85%.
Cost of original spare parts. There is no point in buying non-original ones, and bearings from the manufacturer can cost a hefty sum. Find out in advance how much the replacement will cost, including the price of replacement parts. If the cost of parts starts at $150, replacing them will cost a pretty penny.
After analyzing the above factors, you will be able to make the right choice. If in doubt, you should consult with a specialist who will give you the preliminary cost of repairs. Compare the prices of spare parts with the price tags for washing machines in stores and then decide whether repairs make sense.
The quality of spare parts is decreasing
Professional washing machine repairmen say that the quality of spare parts for washing machines is constantly decreasing. This is especially true for bearings, which fail most often. So does it make sense to change them or is it better to buy a new washing machine?
Often, manufacturers themselves put low-quality parts into machines, which reduces the life of the equipment. On the one hand, it seems that in this case it is reasonable to replace the bearings. But the fact that most spare parts are of poor quality indicates the pointlessness of repairs. After replacement, such parts will last at most another couple of years, after which the same procedure will be required again.
It is worth noting that replacing bearings yourself is not an easy task for a beginner. You can change them yourself if you have similar experience. But if you doubt your abilities, it is better to seek the help of a professional.
After analyzing all the pros and cons of repairs, we come to the conclusion that it is better to purchase a new washing machine. After the purchase, you will have a warranty period; if necessary, parts will be replaced free of charge. In addition, many washing machines are of high enough quality, you can use them for at least 5 years without any repairs.
Replacing washing machine bearings is a fairly expensive procedure. The question is especially acute in relation to an old washing machine, because it is not clear whether it is wise to change the bearings of a washing machine or is it better to buy a new one? Is there any point in expensive maintenance or would it be a waste of money? The decision is made based on several factors, which we have outlined below.
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