On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Appliance Buyers Guide
Wall ovens are essential kitchen appliances, but deciding whether to repair or replace them can be tricky. Here’s a guide based on costs, repair complexity, and lifespan considerations:
Age of the Oven:
- Wall ovens older than 10 years may warrant replacement, especially if repair costs are high.
- Newer models often justify repair since they have years of service left.
Cost of Repair vs. Replacement:
- Median repair cost: $264.
- Wall ovens range in price from $2,000 to $6,000. Repairing is often more economical than replacing.
Warranty Status:
- If your oven is still under warranty, contact the manufacturer or retailer.
- Typical warranties last one year, though pro-style models may offer extended coverage.
Environmental Impact:
- Repairing helps reduce waste. In 2018, 5.3 million tons of appliance waste were generated, with 2.1 million tons ending up in landfills.
Avoid complex repairs due to the risk of electric shock and difficulty accessing components.
Hiring a Professional:
The repair cost is less than half the cost of a new oven.
Replace if:
If replacement is the best option, choose models with high predicted reliability. Check wall oven ratings for:
- Performance scores.
- Reliability data.
- User reviews to avoid recurring issues.
Repairing is often the greener and more cost-effective choice unless your wall oven is outdated or excessively expensive to fix. If replacing, choose a reliable brand, and consider recycling the old unit to minimize environmental impact.
Wall ovens are essential for baking and roasting, but when they break, deciding between repair and replacement requires careful consideration. Here's how to evaluate your options and ensure the best outcome for your kitchen and budget.
Age of the Wall Oven
- Under 10 years old: Repairs are typically more economical.
- Over 10 years old: Consider replacement, especially for recurring issues or outdated performance.
Cost of Repair vs. Replacement
- Median repair cost: $264 (per CR survey data).
- Replacement costs range from $2,000 to $6,000 for most wall ovens.
- Repair is usually the better choice for premium models or newer units.
Warranty Coverage
- Most wall ovens have a 1-year warranty covering parts and labor.
- Check for extended warranties or manufacturer recalls for specific issues.
Environmental Impact
- 2.1 million tons of large appliances end up in landfills yearly.
- Repairing instead of replacing helps reduce waste and emissions.
Use WiFi Diagnostics
- Many modern wall ovens can self-diagnose issues using a smartphone app.
Research Repair Costs
- Use tools like Angi or HomeAdvisor to estimate repair expenses.
Find a Trusted Technician
- Ask for referrals or use services like Thumbtack.
- Review ratings and ensure upfront clarity on diagnostic fees and terms.
If replacement is necessary:
Recycle Responsibly
- Use tools like Earth911 or the EPA’s RAD Program to locate recycling centers.
Choose Reliable Brands
- Experts' wall oven ratings highlight durable and dependable models.
Invest in Energy Efficiency
- Look for models with eco-friendly features to reduce energy consumption.
Wall ovens are a significant investment, and repairing is often the smarter, more sustainable option—especially for newer or high-end models. For older, low-cost units, replacement may be more practical. Whichever you choose, consider your budget, environmental impact, and the long-term reliability of your kitchen appliance.