Questions to Consider When Purchasing Replacement Parts for Your Appliances
Like any other manufactured item, your commercial appliances like refrigerators, HVAC systems, or cookers can break down due to accidents or old age. If the breakdown happens when the item is still in good condition, you can opt to repair it instead of replacing it.
Since repairs involve replacing the damaged part with a similar functional part, you must source replacement parts online or from local stores. So, how do you ensure that your chosen replacement part matches the old one and is high-quality?
Below are some questions to consider when purchasing replacement parts for your appliances.
Does the Replacement Part Fit Your Appliance?
Nowadays, the variety of appliances available in the market is wide. Even a single appliances manufacturer may have several models of a particular product to meet varying user needs. For example, refrigerators from the same manufacturer may vary in size and design.
Therefore, before you purchase a replacement part, ensure that it is the right size and design for your appliance. If your purchased part is not the right fit, you may lose your money or experience delays in the repair project.
The best way to avoid confusion when purchasing replacement parts is to carry the faulty part if you buy the parts from a physical store. Know your unit's model if you purchase the replacement parts online.
Is the Replacement Part OEM or a Generic Aftermarket?
Most replacement parts are either OEM or aftermarkets. OEMs are the replacement parts manufactured by the appliance's manufacturer, while aftermarkets are parts manufactured by third-party manufacturers.
Aftermarkets are less expensive than OEM parts, but they may not last as long as OEM parts. You may also void your warranty if you repair your appliance with substandard aftermarket parts. Therefore, before you purchase an aftermarket replacement part, ensure that the amount of money you save is worthwhile.
Are the Parts New or Used?
Some shops also stock used OEM and aftermarket replacement parts. These parts are primarily from severely damaged appliances. Despite their used status, some of these parts are in good condition, meaning they perform like their new counterparts. Hawkins however, does not stalk any used parts nor sells them.
You can consider used replacement parts if you are on a budget, but we suggest they only be parts like door hinges or gaskets; nothing else that would be an interior part on a unit, regulating heat or cold, that could cause a safety issue.
How Is the Pricing?
Different replacement parts retailers may have varying prices for similar parts. Therefore, compare several shops before choosing the right one. However, only use the prices to identify the average selling price of the parts, not to find the least expensive option.
While less expensive parts are tempting, the least expensive replacement parts may not be of the highest quality.
Does the Manufacturer Give Recommendations?
Sometimes, manufacturers give recommendations for parts that work best with their products. Most manufacturers recommend using OEM parts, especially for the crucial parts of an appliance. In such a scenario, avoid buying other parts because they may not be fully compatible with your appliance.
Though various parts may work as a replacement for your appliance's damaged parts, not all can offer optimal performance and durability. Therefore, be extra cautious when buying replacement parts.
At Hawkins Commercial Appliance Service Inc., we offer a variety of OEM parts from leading manufacturers of commercial appliances. Contact us today to order any replacement part, and we will deliver it as soon as possible. We look forward to providing the replacement parts your commercial appliance needs.
