Why Are Some Parts More Expensive Than Others? How Brand Affects the Price of Parts

Why Are Some Parts More Expensive Than Others? How Brand Affects the Price of Parts

Written for PRS Parts Inc.

When shopping for appliance parts, one question we often hear is: “Why is this part more expensive than the other?” While several factors influence the price of a part — such as materials, complexity, or rarity — one of the biggest contributors is the brand behind the part.

Let’s take a closer look at why brand matters, how it affects pricing, and what you should know as a consumer or technician.

🔧 OEM vs. Aftermarket: What’s the Difference?

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the same manufacturer that produced your appliance. These parts are specifically designed to fit and function perfectly with your appliance model.

  • Pros of OEM: Guaranteed compatibility, trusted quality, often come with warranty

  • Cons of OEM: Typically more expensive

Aftermarket parts are produced by third-party companies. These can be cheaper alternatives, but they may not always meet the same standards or fit as well as OEM parts.

  • Pros of Aftermarket: Lower cost, widely available

  • Cons of Aftermarket: Variable quality, may void appliance warranties

💰 Why Do Brand-Name Parts Cost More?

Here’s why you might notice higher price tags on parts from big-name brands:

  1. Engineering and Testing: Brands like Whirlpool, GE, Samsung, LG, and Bosch invest heavily in research and development. Their parts go through rigorous testing to meet strict standards.

  2. Material Quality: Premium brands often use higher-grade materials to ensure durability and efficiency — which raises the cost.

  3. Distribution and Packaging: OEM brands maintain controlled supply chains. Their parts are often individually packaged and labeled, increasing overhead.

  4. Brand Reputation and Support: The price includes the customer support, warranty service, and reputation for reliability that established brands offer.

🏷️ Examples of Price Differences by Brand

  • A Whirlpool refrigerator water valve might cost significantly more than an aftermarket equivalent — but the Whirlpool valve is tested to work perfectly with your unit and may last longer.

  • Bosch dishwasher drain pumps are known for quality and durability but come at a premium due to brand reputation and engineering.

⚖️ Should You Pay More for the Brand?

That depends on your needs. For professional repairs or newer, high-end appliances, OEM parts are often worth the investment to maintain warranty and performance. However, if you're working with an older unit or looking for budget-friendly solutions, reliable aftermarket parts can still get the job done — with caution.

💡 Pro Tip from PRS Parts Inc.

If you’re unsure whether to go with an OEM or aftermarket part, bring in your model number or the broken part, and let our experienced team help you find the best option. We stock both OEM and high-quality alternatives and can walk you through the pros and cons of each.

📍 Visit PRS Parts Inc. at 540 Lagoon Dr. for authentic appliance replacement parts and expert repair assistance. Whether you're a DIYer or a seasoned tech, we’ve got the knowledge — and the parts — to help you make the right call. Service with the spirit of aloha!

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