Oven Convection Fan Not Working? 6 Causes and What to Do
A convection fan that will not spin is usually a failed fan motor, a seized blade, a door switch or a relay on the control board. Here is how to narrow it down.
Read the guide
How do you decide whether to repair or replace?
Compare the repair cost to the price of a new appliance, then look at the appliance's age. If the repair is less than half the cost of replacing it and the appliance is in the first half of its normal life, repair it. If both are past the halfway point, replacing it is usually the better value.
This is often called the 50% rule. It is a guide, not a law. A high-end built-in refrigerator or range can be worth repairing much later in life, because replacing it may also mean new cabinetry or a custom install.
How long should each appliance last?
Most major appliances last about 10 to 15 years with normal use. The numbers below are approximate and vary by brand, model, and how well the appliance has been maintained.
| Appliance | Typical life (approx.) | Usually worth repairing until |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 10 to 15 years | About 8 years (longer for built-ins) |
| Washer | 10 to 13 years | About 7 years |
| Dryer | 10 to 13 years | About 8 years |
| Dishwasher | 9 to 12 years | About 6 years |
| Range or wall oven | 13 to 15 years | About 10 years |
To compare real prices, see our typical repair costs in Mountain View. Most common repairs fall between about $150 and $450 including parts and labor.
When does repair usually make sense?
- The fault is a common part such as a pump, fan, igniter, belt, door lock, or control relay.
- The appliance is a built-in or premium brand that is costly to replace or install.
- Your kitchen or laundry space was built around the current model's size.
- The rest of the appliance is in good shape, with no rust or repeated failures.
Repairs are often cheaper when you catch a problem early. This list of early warning signs that an appliance needs repair shows what to watch for before it breaks down.
When does replacing make more sense?
- A sealed system or compressor has failed on an older, lower-cost refrigerator.
- The tub, drum, or cabinet is rusted through.
- The appliance has needed several repairs in the last year or two.
- The control board has failed on an old model and the part is no longer made.
For fridges in particular, our guide to why a refrigerator stops cooling explains which faults are cheap fixes and which ones point toward replacement.
Not sure which way to go? A technician can diagnose the fault and give you a firm repair price first.
What should you do with the old appliance?
In Mountain View, you can book a free curbside bulky item pickup or drop the appliance at a recycling center. Do not leave an old fridge with its door on where children can reach it.
The City of Mountain View's bulky item and dump voucher page explains the free On Call Plus pickup, which accepts refrigerators, washers, and dryers. Recology Mountain View's bulky items page lists size limits and drop-off options. For refrigerators and freezers, the cold refrigerant must be recovered by certified handlers under the EPA's Section 608 rules, so never cut lines or vent it yourself.
Get an honest answer before you buy
A diagnostic visit tells you exactly what failed and what the repair costs, so you can make the choice with real numbers. Read our repair FAQ for what to expect, or call us any time to book.
Frequently asked questions
What is the 50% rule for appliance repair?
If the repair costs more than about half the price of a comparable new appliance, and the appliance is past half its usual lifespan, replacing it is usually the better value.
How long do home appliances usually last?
As a rough guide, refrigerators last about 10 to 15 years, washers and dryers about 10 to 13, dishwashers about 9 to 12, and ranges about 13 to 15. High-end built-in brands often last longer.
How do I get rid of an old appliance in Mountain View?
Mountain View residents can book a free bulky item pickup through Recology, or drop appliances off at a recycling center. Refrigerators need their refrigerant recovered properly.
