What to Do with Broken Shelves, Handles, and More: A Guide to Appliance Part Replacement

What to Do with Broken Shelves, Handles, and More: A Guide to Appliance Part Replacement

When it comes to appliances, everyday use naturally leads to wear and tear. Broken refrigerator shelves, cracked oven handles, or damaged washer knobs may not seem like major issues at first—but ignoring them can make your appliance harder to use and even unsafe. The good news? Many of these parts are replaceable, and in most cases, you don’t need a brand-new appliance.

At PRS Parts Inc., we specialize in helping you find the right OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) replacement parts so your appliances can keep running smoothly for years to come.

Common Appliance Parts That Break

  1. Shelves & Drawers – Refrigerator shelves and bins often crack under heavy loads. Once broken, they may no longer hold weight safely.

  2. Handles – Oven, microwave, dishwasher, and refrigerator handles can wear down or snap from constant pulling.

  3. Knobs & Buttons – Washers, dryers, and ranges rely on knobs for controls, which can strip or break over time.

  4. Door Hinges & Latches – Doors that don’t close properly can cause leaks, poor cooling, or heat loss.

  5. Trays & Racks – Dishwasher racks or oven trays can rust, warp, or break.

Why Replacing Is Better Than Repairing

  • Cost-Effective – A new shelf or handle is far less expensive than replacing the whole appliance.

  • OEM Fit – Original parts ensure proper fit and durability.

  • Improved Safety – Handles, latches, and hinges help your appliance function correctly and securely.

  • Extend Appliance Life – Regularly replacing worn parts prevents bigger issues.

How to Replace Broken Parts

  1. Identify the Part Number – Look for the model and part number on your appliance or manual.

  2. Choose OEM Parts – OEM replacements guarantee compatibility and reliability.

  3. Install with Basic Tools – Many parts like shelves, bins, and knobs simply snap into place. For others (hinges, latches), a screwdriver may be all you need.

  4. Know When to Call a Technician – If electrical or mechanical parts are involved, consider professional help.

When to Retire Instead of Replace

If you find multiple parts breaking frequently, or your appliance is already 10+ years old and showing signs of inefficiency, it might be time to weigh replacement costs versus repair.

Final Thoughts

Broken shelves, handles, and knobs don’t mean your appliance is at the end of its life. With the right OEM parts, you can restore its functionality quickly and affordably.

Visit PRS Parts Inc. at 540 Lagoon Dr. for authentic appliance replacement parts and expert repair assistance.

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