Re^2: When I need money for a bigger acquisition, I usually ...

[Gavin]

That's not a bad run for your money.

I bet the replacements won't last as long as your originals!

[talexb]

I bet the replacements won't last as long as your originals!

I've heard that from a couple of folks. It's a little frustrating to think that with all of the scientific advances we still can't make an appliance that lasts 20-30 years. Then again, when the technician came to the house yesterday to look at the hot water heater, he checked the age and said "Replacement." right away. They're not going to spend any time repairing a 20+ year-old unit -- and that's fair. Presumably they can do a pile of recycling on the old unit.

[soonix]

with all of the scientific advances we still can't make

Yes, we can - but we won't, because it's the economy.
You might be willing to pay more for a device with more longevity, but most buyers cope with a much shorter lifespan because they want to pay a little less.