Liz Weston: When to repair or replace your appliances

By LIZ WESTON of NerdWallet

The decision about whether to repair or replace appliances can be a lot more complicated than general rules of thumb imply. Getting more useful years out of your appliances can save money and keep your appliances out of landfills where they may harm the environment. On the other hand, repairs can be expensive, a replacement could be much more energy efficient and your unit could be at the end of its useful life.