Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace an Oven?

When your oven stops working, the first question isn’t just "How do I fix it?" - it’s "Should I even bother?" Repairing an oven can feel like throwing good money after bad, especially if it’s older than five years. But replacing it isn’t always the smart choice either. So, is it cheaper to repair or replace an oven? The answer isn’t simple. It depends on the problem, the age of the oven, and what you’re willing to pay upfront versus over time.

When Repair Makes Sense

Not every oven issue needs a full replacement. Simple fixes can save you hundreds - sometimes even more than half the cost of a new unit. If your oven isn’t heating evenly, the heating element might be burnt out. Replacing that costs between $50 and $150, including labor. That’s less than 10% of what a new oven costs. Same goes for faulty door seals. A broken seal lets heat escape, making your oven work harder and raising your electricity bill. Replacing the gasket? Around $30. Done in under an hour.

Thermostat problems are another common fix. If your oven runs too hot or too cold, the thermostat might be off by 20 degrees. Calibration or replacement costs $80-$150. Many people don’t realize that ovens can be recalibrated without replacing parts. A technician can adjust it on the spot. That’s not a repair - it’s a tune-up.

Control panels and touchscreens are tricky. If buttons stop working or the display goes dark, it’s tempting to panic. But if the oven still heats properly, the panel might just be faulty. Replacing it costs $120-$250. Compare that to a new oven, which starts at $600 for a basic model. If your oven is under 10 years old and the rest of it works fine, repairing the panel is almost always the better move.

When Replacement Is the Only Smart Choice

There’s a point where repair stops being cost-effective. If your oven is 15 years old or older, it’s likely using outdated technology and inefficient insulation. Modern ovens use 20-30% less energy. That adds up. Over five years, a newer, energy-efficient oven can save you $150-$300 on your electricity bill. That’s money you’re already losing by keeping the old one.

Major component failures are another red flag. If the main control board is fried, or the oven cavity is cracked, those are signs of structural wear. Replacing a control board can cost $300-$500 - and that doesn’t guarantee other parts won’t fail next month. A cracked cavity? That’s a safety hazard. Heat leaks can warp surrounding cabinetry or even start a fire. No reputable technician will repair that. You’ll be forced to replace it anyway.

Also consider this: older ovens often use parts that are no longer manufactured. Finding a replacement igniter or fan motor for a 2012 model might take weeks - or cost more than a new oven. Manufacturers stop producing parts after 7-10 years. If your oven is past that, you’re not fixing it. You’re playing a waiting game with your kitchen.

Cost Comparison: Repair vs Replace

Let’s break it down with real numbers. Based on average prices in Wellington as of early 2026:

Notice something? Once repairs start adding up past $300, you’re already halfway to buying a new oven. And if you’re paying for multiple repairs over a year, you’re not saving money - you’re just delaying the inevitable.

Hidden Costs of Keeping an Old Oven

Most people forget the hidden costs. An old oven doesn’t just cost money to fix - it costs you in time, safety, and comfort. If your oven takes 45 minutes to preheat, you’re wasting electricity. If it shuts off mid-bake because the fan overheated, you’re wasting food and patience. If you’ve ever had to stand in the kitchen holding the door shut because the seal broke, you know what I mean.

There’s also the risk of fire. Older heating elements can spark. Faulty wiring in 10-year-old ovens is a leading cause of kitchen fires in New Zealand. Insurance claims from oven-related fires have risen 18% since 2022. A $700 oven might seem expensive. But a $20,000 fire damage claim? That’s not even close.

And let’s not forget resale value. If you’re thinking of selling your home, a modern oven adds appeal. Buyers notice when appliances look worn, smell like burnt grease, or rattle when turned on. A new oven isn’t just a convenience - it’s a selling point.

How to Decide: A Simple Rule

Here’s the rule I use when advising homeowners in Wellington:

• If your oven is under 8 years old and the repair cost is less than 50% of a new unit → repair.
• If your oven is 8-12 years old and the repair cost is over $200 → consider replacement.
• If your oven is over 12 years old → replace, unless it’s a high-end model with a known reliability record.
• If the repair requires replacing two or more major parts → replace.

Also, check if your oven is still under warranty. Some brands offer 5-year parts warranties. If you’re within that window, get it fixed - even if it’s expensive. The warranty covers the cost, not you.

What to Do Next

Don’t guess. Get a quote. Most repair services offer free diagnostics. A good technician will tell you if the oven is worth saving. If they hesitate, or say "it’s on its last legs," take that seriously.

If you’re replacing, look for models with energy ratings of A++ or higher. In New Zealand, Energy Efficiency labels are mandatory. A top-rated oven uses 30% less power than a basic one. You’ll break even on the cost difference in under three years.

And don’t forget about disposal. Many retailers offer free removal of your old oven when you buy a new one. Some councils even offer rebates for upgrading to energy-efficient appliances. Wellington City Council gives up to $200 off for approved replacements. Check their website - you might be eligible.

Final Thought

Repairing an oven feels like the frugal choice. But sometimes, the cheapest option isn’t the one that costs the least today. It’s the one that costs the least over time. A new oven doesn’t just fix your cooking problems - it saves energy, reduces risk, and gives you peace of mind. If your oven is older than 10 years, and you’re spending more than $200 on fixes, you’re not saving money. You’re just paying to keep a relic running.