When your oven stops heating or throws error codes, the first question is always – do I fix it or do I replace it? The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all. It depends on the age of the unit, the exact fault, and how much you’ll spend to make it work again. Below we break down the most common scenarios and give you a simple way to decide.
Most oven headaches come from a few parts: the heating element, thermostat, control board, or door seal. An element that’s burnt out or a thermostat that won’t read temperature correctly can usually be swapped for under £100. If the control board is fried, the part can run £150‑£250, plus labour.
Older ovens (15+ years) often have outdated parts that are hard to find. In those cases the price of a new control board can approach the cost of a brand‑new oven. That’s when you start to question the value of a repair.
Take three numbers: the repair quote, the price of a comparable new oven, and the expected remaining life of your current unit. If the repair is more than 30% of the new price, or if the oven is already 10‑12 years old, buying new usually makes more sense.
For example, a 12‑year‑old electric oven with a £180 control board fix will still need another 3‑5 years before major parts wear out. If a new mid‑range oven costs £500, you’d spend about 36% of that on a fix that only extends life a few years. That’s a tough sell.
On the other hand, a 5‑year‑old model with a £70 element replacement will likely run another decade. Here the repair is a clear win.
Energy efficiency also matters. Newer ovens use less electricity, so even a modest price difference can be offset by lower bills over time.
In short, use this quick rule of thumb: if repair cost < 30% of a new oven and the unit is under 10 years old, fix it. Otherwise, start looking at replacements.
Need help diagnosing the exact issue? Our technicians can test the element, thermostat, and board on the spot. We’ll give you a transparent quote and a clear recommendation, so you never have to guess.
Remember, a well‑maintained oven can last 15‑20 years. Regular cleaning, checking seals, and not slamming the door go a long way in avoiding costly repairs.
Whether you end up fixing or buying new, you’ll save time and money with the right information. Got a specific problem? Tell us what’s happening and we’ll point you to the best solution.
1 May 2025 · 0 Comments
Wondering if you should repair your 15-year-old oven? This article breaks down how to decide if fixing it makes sense, what costs to expect, and when it’s better to move on. Get tips on spotting easy fixes, finding affordable repair help, and real stories from people in the same spot. Make a smart, wallet-friendly choice for your kitchen without the stress.
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