Sir, – With regard to wasteful obsolescence, as John O'Rourke states (Letters, February 11th), the manufacturing companies really do not want us to repair old appliances.
I cracked the ceramic top of a freestanding electric cooker. I dismantled it and took out the broken ceramic pieces. I attempted to buy the ceramic cover to discover that the company wanted €490 for the part, while a new cooker of the same model and make was €550.
All other parts of the cooker were working perfectly – the elements, grill, oven and all electrics.
In these days of wasteful practices, and in order to safeguard the environment, we must confront these manufacturers with regard to providing affordable spare parts. – Yours, etc,
PADDY HENNESSY,
Crumlin,
Dublin12.
Sir, – Most white goods such as washers and driers are “badge engineered” and consist of many interchangeable parts behind the outer case.
In past times everyone with a bit of “spanner” skill went to the scrapyard for a replacement part for their car, bike or whatever. This option is still there at the back of electrical shops and recycling centres. Get your vice-grip and spanner, set out, and save a fortune and the planet. – Yours, etc,
JOHN K ROGERS,
Rathowen,
Co Westmeath.