The modern home holds a wide range of different appliances. They’re designed to make our lives simpler and easier, but they’re definitely not created equal. Some home appliances are much more expensive than others, which means that you might want to bother insuring them. Not sure which appliances will cost you the most to replace? Here’s a quick rundown of the 10 most expensive home appliances.
10 – Microwave
Finally, we come to the humble microwave. It’s not the most expensive option on our list, but some of the new models available can cost several hundred dollars to replace if they fail. If you have a combination inverter/convection oven, you can plan on spending upwards of $500 to $1,000.
09 – Garbage Disposal
If you have a garbage disposal in your kitchen sink, chances are good you rely on it more than you realize. Replacing that unit could cost you almost $400 not counting installation fees.
08 – Window AC Units
If you don’t have central air conditioning, then chances are good that you have at least one window unit in your home. Depending on the type, size, and performance rating, this could cost anywhere from $200 to $600 or so.
07 – Dryer
You knew this one was coming! While they’re not usually as expensive as washing machines, dryers can be pretty costly to replace, particularly if you’re going for a matched set with the washer. Plan to pay between $400 and $1,000 depending on brand, model, and features.
06 – Washing Machine
Being able to wash laundry at home is a greater convenience than many of us realize. That point will be driven home if you find yourself having to replace your washer. A new one will set you back between $700 and $1,000 depending on brand and features.
05 – Water Heater
It’s probably not on your radar when it comes to home appliances, but as soon as it goes out, you’ll miss it. Replacing a water heater can be pretty costly and may set you back up to $1,500 with installation.
04 – Dishwasher
Sure, you can buy a new dishwasher for about $400, but that model is probably going to look like it came from last century and isn’t going to offer much in the way of features. A higher-quality dishwasher may set you back $700 to $1,000 depending on the size of the unit and the features offered. Noise reduction technology will also kick the price up.
03 – Refrigerator
Yes, the refrigerator is one of your most expensive home appliances. Even a basic model is going to cost you hundreds of dollars, but if you want an upgraded option, stainless-steel finish, counter-depth design, or any advanced features, you can plan on ponying up $3,000 or $4,000. A truly high-end fridge will set you back as much as $8,000.
02 – Stove
The stove is another expensive appliance, with some models topping out well over $2,000 for a basic, bottom-of-the-line option. A high-end stove could run you $5,000 or even more depending on the brand you choose, and the features offered.
01 – HVAC
This one is that proverbial “no-brainer”. Your home’s heating and cooling system is the single most expensive appliance, although it’s technically multiple appliances that work together to keep you and your family comfortable throughout the year. Replacement costs can reach as high as $17,000 depending on the system and home.
How to Protect Yourself from Appliance Failure
Life has a way of throwing us curveballs. When it comes to household appliances, you can almost count on something failing without much warning. The best way to prepare for this is to ensure that you have protection. While your homeowner’s insurance will help offset the costs of replacement if your appliances are damaged in a fire or flood, it won’t do anything if the appliance fails on its own. You’ll be left to foot the bill on your own.
Most Americans can’t afford to shell out hundreds or thousands of dollars without going deeper into debt, so it pays to consider a home warranty that covers your appliances in case of failure. There are plenty of home warranty companies out there that offer good coverage for affordable rates, ensuring that you have the help you need when one of these appliances fails.