We are happy to share our national appliance report to help consumers make the best appliance purchase decisions using our data on affordability, the best value for money, ease of use, and more.
In our second annual National Appliance Repair Report, we surveyed our nationwide network of appliance repair technicians and Puls+ members to identify the most reliable brands with the longest life-cycle and the best value. By analyzing proprietary data compiled from our own appliance repair jobs and Puls+ members, we have assembled the most valuable data from the experts—the people that use the appliances and the people that repair them. All data is the weighted average of all tech categories to supply the most accurate comparisons.
The majority of homes in the U.S. have more than one major appliance including a refrigerator, stove, washing machine, dryer, and dishwasher. With consumers spending more time in their homes today, their appliances are getting more use than ever. Here is our ranking of the top brands for reliability and value for the money:
Puls Appliance Brand Reliability Winners
Maytag and Whirlpool—according to the Puls technicians, both brands offer the most reliable products across all product types. Whirlpool has a slight edge as it gives its customers the most value for their money, is the most cost-efficient to repair, and is the most user-friendly.
Our Puls+ members agree that Whirlpool products are all manufactured with high quality components, provide the most value for the money, and win the category for ease of use.
Our technicians recommend the following brands for specific household appliances: a Whirlpool refrigerator, a Bosch dishwasher, a GE range/stovetop, and Whirlpool for a washing machine and dryer.
A Puls+ member recommends to "Get something reliable, not just something that's on sale. Buying an appliance that will last long through over-usage and gives you the best value for your money is key." Knowing what their peers are saying about their own appliances can help consumers make the right decision on which brands will work best for their family's needs.
Most Repaired Appliances and Average Costs
Another consideration when buying an appliance is how often it will need to be repaired and how much the average repair costs.
#1—Refrigerator
According to the Puls' data in 2020, the refrigerator is the most repaired appliance in the home with an average repair cost of $190. It is the most-used equipment and takes the heaviest beating. Buying a top brand refrigerator will save money and aggravation in the future.
#2—Dryer
Ranked as the second-most repaired major appliance is the dryer. There is no difference between gas or electric models and the average repair is $186.
#3—Washer
Coming in third for big-ticket item repairs is the washing machine. Consumers pay an average of $159 for repairs.
Based on data from the Puls Second Annual Appliance Report 2020, purchasing high-quality appliances such as Whirlpool or Maytag will give the best opportunity for fewer repairs but they do occasionally break down. When they do, it will be important to get them fixed quickly.
Puls+ Membership—Providing Peace-of-Mind for Home Repairs
Puls offers 3 different types of Puls+ programs to help its customers take care of their homes in a less costly and more efficient manner. Choose from Puls+ Essential, Puls+ Standard, or Puls+ Pro to suit your specific needs. Membership has 4 main advantages over a home warranty program:
Puls membership programs cost less.
Home warranty programs can take up to 2 weeks to send a technician. Puls has early, same-day service.
In addition to steep home warranty annual fees, service fees are required for every call. Puls has a lower initial cost and a 20% discount on every service.
Home warranty technicians may not be vetted. All Puls' expert technicians are thoroughly checked for the highest level of security.
All Puls+ memberships include a 20% continued discount on every service, fixed-rate service fees, waived security and support fees, extended warranties on every service, free home check-ups and more.
Don't get stuck with a broken down appliance or other repair, explore the Puls+ membership programs to find solutions to all your home maintenance needs.