Fix or Replace Washing Machine: When to Repair and When to Buy New

When your washing machine, a household appliance designed to clean clothes using water and detergent. Also known as a laundry machine, it’s one of the most used devices in your home. stops spinning, leaks, or makes strange noises, you face a simple but costly question: fix or replace washing machine? Most people assume a broken machine means a new one is needed—but that’s not always true. Many washing machines can be repaired for less than half the cost of buying new, especially if they’re under 8 years old. The key is knowing what’s broken, how expensive the fix is, and whether it’s worth the investment.

One of the most common reasons washing machines fail is a worn-out door seal, a rubber gasket that keeps water from leaking during the wash cycle.. Replacing it costs under £50 and takes an hour. A faulty pump, a small motor that drains water from the tub. is another frequent issue, often fixable for under £100. But if your machine is over 10 years old, and you’re spending more than half the price of a new model on repairs, it’s usually smarter to replace it. Older machines use more water and electricity, and parts become harder to find. You might also notice signs like clothes coming out still dirty, excessive vibration, or repeated error codes—these point to deeper problems like a failing drum bearing or motor, which are rarely worth fixing.

Don’t just look at the price tag. Think about how often you use it. A family of four running daily loads needs reliability. A single person might be fine with a used machine or a budget repair. Check if your model is still supported by the manufacturer—some brands stop supplying parts after 7 years. Also, consider energy ratings. A new A+++ machine could save you £50 a year on bills, which pays for itself in a few years. But if your current machine still runs well and the fix is cheap, there’s no rush to replace it. Many people replace washing machines too early because they don’t know what’s wrong. A quick diagnostic by a local technician can save you hundreds.

In Rugby, appliance repair services see hundreds of washing machines each year. Most aren’t beyond saving. Whether it’s a blocked filter, a broken belt, or a faulty control board, many issues are simple to fix. You’ll find real-life examples below—cases where people saved money by repairing instead of replacing, and others who avoided bigger problems by replacing at the right time. These aren’t guesses. They’re real repairs done by local technicians who know what works and what doesn’t in UK homes. Whether you’re dealing with a leaking drum, a machine that won’t spin, or just wondering if it’s time to upgrade, the posts here give you the facts you need to decide—without the sales pitch.