10 Year Old Oven: Should You Repair or Replace?

Ten years is a long time for any kitchen appliance. By the time your oven hits the decade mark, you’re probably asking yourself: Is it still worth fixing, or is it smarter to replace it? The answer isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all, but you can decide with a few simple checks.

Common Issues in a Decade‑Old Oven

After ten years most ovens start to show wear in predictable places. The heating elements may become uneven, causing cold spots or longer bake times. Thermostats can lose accuracy, so the temperature you set isn’t the temperature inside. Door seals often shrink, letting heat escape and increasing energy bills. Electronic controls may glitch, especially on models with digital displays. Finally, frequent use can thicken grease and soot, leading to smoke or a burnt smell.

These problems are usually easy for a qualified technician to diagnose. A quick visual inspection can reveal a cracked element or a broken door gasket. Faulty thermostats are swapped out in under an hour. Digital control boards are the most expensive part, but even they can be repaired if the issue is a loose connection rather than a full board failure.

Choosing Repair or Replacement – Quick Guide

Cost vs. value. If a repair costs less than 30% of a new oven’s price, fixing it usually makes sense. A new mid‑range oven costs around £400‑£700 in Glastonbury; a repair under £150 is a clear win.

Frequency of breakdowns. One big fix is fine, but if you’re calling for service every few months, the appliance is probably at the end of its useful life. Multiple small problems add up quickly.

Energy efficiency. Modern ovens are far more efficient. An old 10‑year model can waste up to 20% more electricity. Upgrading can lower your bills and reduce your carbon footprint.

Features you need. New ovens offer convection fans, smart controls, and self‑cleaning cycles. If those features would make cooking easier, it’s worth the upgrade.

When you weigh these factors, the decision becomes clearer. A solid, well‑maintained oven can last another 5‑7 years with a simple part replacement. If the core components are failing, start looking at new models.

Regardless of what you choose, regular maintenance can extend any oven’s life. Clean the interior after each use, check the door seal for cracks, and schedule a professional tune‑up every 2‑3 years. A quick check of the heating element for visible breakage can catch problems early.

If you’re in Glastonbury and need a reliable opinion, our local team at Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services can do a fast inspection. We’ll tell you exactly what’s broken, give you a transparent quote, and suggest whether repair or replacement gives you the best bang for your buck. No hidden fees, no jargon—just straight answers.

Bottom line: don’t automatically discard a 10‑year‑old oven. Look at the specific fault, compare repair costs with a new unit, and think about energy savings. With the right info, you’ll make a decision that keeps your kitchen running smoothly and your wallet happy.