Repair vs Replace Calculator EU

How the Repair vs Replace Calculator Works

The decision to repair or replace a broken product is one of the most common dilemmas faced by consumers. This calculator helps you make an informed choice by comparing the cost-effectiveness of both options on a per-year basis. It divides the repair cost by the estimated remaining years of life if repaired, and divides the new product cost by its full expected lifespan. The option with the lower cost per year represents better value. This per-year comparison is more meaningful than simply comparing the repair cost to the replacement cost, because it accounts for how long each option will continue to serve you.

The EU right-to-repair directive, which takes effect in July 2026, significantly changes the repair versus replace equation in favour of repair. Under these new rules, when a consumer chooses to repair a product that is within the legal guarantee period, the guarantee is automatically extended by one additional year from the date the repair is completed. This means that repairing a faulty product not only fixes the immediate problem but also gives you an extra year of legal protection against further defects. The guarantee extension applies to all repairs carried out under the legal guarantee, whether performed by the manufacturer, an authorised service provider, or an independent repairer. This calculator factors in this guarantee bonus when providing its recommendation.

Several important factors influence the repair versus replace decision beyond pure cost calculations. A repaired product keeps functioning immediately without the time and effort of researching, purchasing, and setting up a new one. Repair is also significantly better for the environment: manufacturing a new appliance generates substantial carbon emissions and uses raw materials, while repair extends the useful life of existing products. The EU estimates that promoting repair over replacement could reduce electronic waste by millions of tonnes annually. Conversely, a new product offers the latest energy efficiency, features, and technology, which may provide ongoing benefits such as lower electricity consumption or improved performance that partially offset the higher purchase price.

The expected lifespan of a product varies significantly by category and quality. Washing machines typically last 10 to 14 years, dishwashers 9 to 13 years, refrigerators 12 to 20 years, smartphones 3 to 5 years, televisions 7 to 12 years, laptops 5 to 8 years, and vacuum cleaners 6 to 10 years. Products that have been well-maintained and are within the first half of their expected lifespan are generally better candidates for repair. Products that are near the end of their expected lifespan or have already undergone multiple repairs may be better candidates for replacement, especially if newer models offer significantly better energy efficiency or performance.

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