Your appliance breaks. You face the same question everyone asks: repair or replace? The answer isn't always obvious. Here's the framework we use when advising our own customers.

The 50% Rule

If the repair cost exceeds 50% of the replacement cost AND the appliance is more than 8 years old, replace it. If either condition is false, repair it.

Example Calculations

Scenario 1: 10-year-old fridge. Replacement cost KSh 40,000. Repair quote KSh 22,000 (55% of replacement). Replace.

Scenario 2: 4-year-old washing machine. Replacement cost KSh 35,000. Repair quote KSh 12,000 (34% of replacement). Repair.

When to Repair Even If It's Expensive

• High-end appliances (Miele, Bosch, Liebherr) — replace costs 3-5x standard brands
• Built-in appliances that require cabinet modifications
• Appliances with sentimental value (inherited, wedding gift)
• When the replacement model is less reliable (some newer models have more failures)

When to Replace Even If It's Cheap to Repair

• Appliance is 12+ years old and has had 3+ repairs in the last 2 years
• The part is discontinued (waiting weeks or months)
• The repair is temporary (leaking refrigerant, failing compressor)

The Nairobi-Specific Factor: Spare Parts Availability

Some brands (LG, Samsung, Ramtons) have excellent parts availability in Nairobi. Others (European brands) may require weeks to import parts. We tell you honestly if a part is available locally or needs to be ordered.

"Repair Ready told me to replace my 14-year-old fridge instead of fixing a compressor leak. I was hesitant but followed their advice. They were right — the new fridge uses half the electricity." — David, Karen

📞 Call 0707 790 099 for an honest repair vs replace assessment. We'll tell you what we would do for our own family.