The average home is likely to have at least a few thousand dollars worth of electronics equipment. Everything from cameras, phones, computers, TVs and all the little gadgets that make life fun and easier.
So how do you decide whether something is worth fixing or if you would be better off throwing it away and getting a new one?
The decision is not always that difficult but more often then not it can be emotional. The first thing you have to do is find out if the item even can be repaired.
Unfortunately if you are talking about older entertainment products there might not be a supply of parts to fix your item but even if there is how difficult will it be to find a shop that can do the work.
In this case if you are totally in love with your 1986 game box you might want to look on an auction site for a used one that works.
Cameras can keep their value if not for function then for collectability. Today most professionals do not rely on film based cameras. And since a $150 10Mpixel camera can give the same results as a 35mm slr there is no real reason for consumers to hold on to older film based cameras.
For the most part selling your old equipment should bring enough money that you can purchase a standard grade comparable digital camera.
If you have a broken digital camera that is over 3 years old you probably shouldn’t even think about repairing it. The cost to ship the camera in for repair might be close to the cost of a new camera with the same or better function.
Computers
Since computers are modular they are relatively easy to fix and upgrade. If your Hard Drive, dvd or video card goes bad you can replace it and as new products are made the replacement parts are better and cost less.
However there is a cutoff point where upgrading parts costs more then buying a new low end computer on sale. If your computer is more then 3 years old you should factor any upgrades or repairs against the cost of a barebones or entry level computer that will most likely have twice the power and features of your current model.
Appliances
Stoves, Ranges, Ovens, Washer Dryers and other large appliances can often be repaired for less then the cost of a new one. Your decision to repair vs fix really has a lot to do with your ability to do the work yourself. Labor costs are often the limiting factor.
The most important part of repairing a large appliance is your ability to diagnose the problem and order the parts. Most manufacturers will continue to stock things like heating elements in stoves and ovens that are very easy to replace. Washers and dryers often only need the replacement of a belt, motor or heating element which can be ordered either online or at your local appliance store.
If you think you can do the work yourself then try. The cost for parts is relatively low and the tools and skill needed is often very basic. A screw driver, Pliers and a basic wrench set should get you through most repairs.
If you want to upgrade or replace the appliance then look for discounts. Find Government rebates or ask your local electric and gas company about any deals they may have. And always buy products that are on sale.
Small Appliances
Often you can fix a toaster or coffee maker if you understand what is wrong and it is not a major part of the appliance. In other instances such as a Microwave you do not want to attempt repairs and sending a Microwave out for repairs is probably not a great idea.
Small appliances are basically throw away. If you can clean a jam, replace a spring or knob then fine but buying new is often your best bet.
Final Note
For the most part finding parts and repair manuals are a major part of being able to repair products in your home. Almost every manufacture will supply parts under government rules for a certain number of years after they discontinue the product but you should always factor cost against the total value of the item you are repairing.
Large appliances or devices like your Furnace and Air Conditioner should be serviced by a professional if you can not do the work yourself.
But when the cost of the repair is more then half the cost of a new item you have to decide if the repair will last you and if you will want to keep the item for the years it may take to see a return in the repair cost.
The YouRepair Store sells repair parts for many large and small appliances everything from heating elements for your stove to replacement belts for your vacuum cleaner or pumps for your Washing Machine.