10‑Year‑Old Oven: Repair or Replace?

If your oven has been cooking for a decade, you might wonder whether it’s still worth fixing. The answer isn’t a simple yes or no – it depends on how it’s performing, what’s broken, and how much a new unit would cost.

First, take a quick look at the most common culprits: the heating element, thermostat, control board, and door seal. If your oven heats unevenly, takes forever to warm up, or makes weird noises, one of these parts is probably to blame.

How Much Will a Repair Cost?

Repair prices for a 10‑year‑old oven usually range from £50 to £150 for simple fixes like a new element or thermostat. More complex jobs – such as swapping out a control board – can hit £200‑£300. Compare that to the price of a brand‑new oven, which often starts around £400 and can go up to £1,200 for high‑end models.

When you add labour, parts, and the chance of another failure soon after, the total repair bill can start to look like a down‑payment on a fresh oven.

Energy Efficiency and Safety

Older ovens are typically less energy‑efficient than newer ones. A modern oven can save you up to 30% on electricity bills each year. Over five years, that adds up and may offset the cost of a replacement.

Safety is also a big factor. Worn‑out wiring or a cracked door seal can cause fire hazards. If you spot any exposed wires, sparks, or a door that won’t stay closed, call a professional right away – it’s not worth the risk.

Here’s a quick checklist to decide your next move:

• Is the oven still heating to the right temperature? (Use an oven thermometer.)
• Do you hear unusual sounds or see smoke?
• How old is the oven compared to the average lifespan (10‑15 years for most units)?
• What’s the estimated repair cost?
• Would a new oven save on energy bills?

If you answer “yes” to most of these, replacement is probably the smarter choice. If the oven still heats well, the fault is minor, and the repair cost is under £100, fixing it makes sense.

Remember, a repair can extend the life of a good oven for another few years, but it won’t turn a decade‑old unit into a brand‑new one. Weigh the short‑term savings against long‑term benefits.

When you’re ready to make a decision, get a quote from a trusted local repair service. They can diagnose the issue, give you a clear price, and advise whether a replacement would be more cost‑effective.

Bottom line: a 10‑year‑old oven can still be reliable, but only if the problem is small and the repair cost is low. If the repair approaches the price of a new oven, or if energy efficiency and safety are concerns, start looking at replacement options.

Need help figuring out the best move? Contact our experienced technicians – we’ll assess your oven, explain the options, and help you choose the right path for your kitchen.