Don't Toss It -- Fix it!

When your latest gadget breaks, do you toss it or fix it? We are now living in a world of planned obsolescence where it costs more to repair items than chuck them out and replace them. Not only is that disposable approach costing us more financially, but it's a massive waste of the earth's resources. Our throwaway culture is leading to landfills overflowing with stuff that we could easily repair and reuse.

Why fix it myself?

Whether you are a business professional, a cash-strapped student or a crafty mom, learning how to repair things yourself has many benefits. You gain knowledge about how things work, spend quality time with children or family members, gain a sense of accomplishment, and preserve heirloom items— while saving money! For the budding DIY enthusiast, once you learn the basics of one skill, you’ll gain the confidence to work on your next project.

What should I repair?

When deciding whether it is more cost effective to fix an item than to replace it, remember the 50 percent rule— if the estimate for repair is less than 50 percent of the item’s replacement value, it makes more sense financially to repair it. For example, when a button pops off your favorite shirt, buy a needle and thread and use an online tutorial to learn how to sew on a button is definitely less expensive than buying a new shirt. For the most part, simple fixes that involve glue or tape can mend knick-knacks, picture frames, dishes and clocks. Unless you have some experience with DIY projects, leave more complicated repairs to the professionals.

What should I have repaired?

When considering whether to replace an item rather than having it repaired, weigh the possibility that the item may retain its value or appreciate over time, as well as the 50 percent rule. For example, while it may be obvious that the investment of reupholstering a well-made piece of furniture would be wise, those dusty speakers in the garage that you want to throw away could be classic JBL speakers worth quite a bit if repaired. If you are in doubt about the possible value of an item, check out a product bluebook site such as WorthMonkey.com.

The repair cost for having your Doc Martens re-soled, gluing the heel of your Jimmy Choo back on, or having your Stella McCartney handbag’s strap fixed by a cobbler would definitely cost less than replacing them.

Large appliances.

For repairs that are out of your skill range, such as major appliances and automobiles, call in a qualified repair person. If you can find the parts, and someone to do the work, well-made older appliances may be worth fixing. ConsumerReports.com has a helpful guide to what products you should consider repairing. If all your spa needs is some simple replacement parts from HotTubWorks.com, it would make no sense to buy a new one. However, since many other older household appliance models aren’t as energy efficient as the newer ones, you’ll need to factor that into your decision when the dishwasher stops working. EnergyStar.gov offers a variety of methods to compare the cost savings of newer appliances.

Remember, a vast amount of natural resources are needed to make new stuff when you add up the water, metals, minerals, timber, and petroleum products used in manufacturing. Buying new creates more transportation and storage costs, as well as packaging materials. According to the experts at ProductPolicy.com, products and packaging are responsible for an estimated 44 percent of U.S. global warming emissions. Repairing items means you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint, while saving money!

Taken from: Guest Post (article, By George Iverson), Google (images).