Comparing repair quotes? Request a written diagnosis and itemized total, then compare complete repair and installed replacement costs.
Start with a confirmed fault and a complete quote
- Copy the full model and documented failure.
- Request a written repair scope and complete price with date, currency and inclusions.
- Compare against the complete installed cost of a suitable replacement, not its advertised appliance price.
Choose the observation that matches
You only have a part price
Add diagnosis, labor, visit fees, tax, shipping and any required associated work. A part listing is not a complete installed repair cost.
The quote does not explain the failed part
Ask which findings support the diagnosis and which alternatives were ruled out. Expensive speculative parts make a cost comparison unreliable.
Warranty or coverage may apply
Verify the applicable terms, covered work, exclusions and authorized route. Do not assume coverage from age or brand alone.
Several repairs or access problems are involved
Include all confirmed work and access costs in the repair scope. Compare with a replacement that actually fits and can be installed.
Compare like-for-like totals
Repair scope
Diagnosis/visit, verified parts, labor, required associated work, transport/shipping, tax and any return visit. Record quote date, currency and inclusions. Ask whether any diagnosis or visit fee is included in the total or credited toward the repair.
Replacement scope
Suitable exact model, delivery, installation, removal, required hoses/accessories, site changes, tax and applicable warranty terms.
Decision context
Current condition, other known faults, parts availability, suitability for your laundry and household disruption. No universal economic cutoff is assumed.
Choose a next action from the evidence
If the diagnosis or either quote is incomplete, obtain the missing information first. If a defined repair restores a suitable washer at acceptable cost and scope, repair can be reasonable. If major work, other faults or installation needs change the comparison, assess a suitable replacement.
Sources and applicability
- ENERGY STAR: clothes washer buying guidance: EnergyGuide comparison and household/space needs; no rankings, cost estimates or universal savings claims.