What’s the Price of Appliance Repair?

Breaking Down the Costs of Appliance Repairs

Several significant factors contribute to the cost of appliance repairs. Here’s a brief breakdown of the elements impacting your budget.
Labor
When it comes to labor, the majority of local appliance repair professionals typically charge between $90 and $190 per hour. For master technicians with exceptional expertise, rates may climb as high as $240 per hour.
Parts
Labor costs can be significant, but parts can often surpass this expense, depending on the appliance you’re repairing. For instance, installing a control board for a dryer may only require 10 minutes of labor but could entail a cost exceeding $290 for the board alone. Similarly, fixing a fridge might involve a quick condenser replacement, but these parts can range from $240 to $490.
Service Fees
On top of their hourly rate, certain professionals may impose a service fee ranging from $90 to $140 per job. This fee covers the technician’s travel expenses incurred in reaching the job site.

Appliance-Specific Repair Expenses

The most significant variable impacting your appliance repair expenses is the type of repair needed and the appliance’s model. Repairing smart appliances tends to be the most costly, whereas simpler, basic models are typically less expensive. Here’s an overview of your expectations regarding the budget for these various appliance repairs.
Refrigerator Repair
On average, a standard refrigerator repair typically costs $200 to $300, though prices vary widely from $80 to $390. Common signs indicating the need for refrigerator repair include leaks, malfunctioning ice machines, inadequate cooling, or unusual buzzing, humming, or rattling noises. If you notice any of these issues with your fridge, it’s advisable to promptly engage an appliance repair technician to prevent the problem from escalating.
Freezer Repair
The cost of freezer repairs generally ranges from $130 to $540. Due to the intricate inner workings of freezers compared to refrigerators, the expenses for repairing a freezer are typically higher. Minor repairs like thermostat adjustments or fixing dings in the door are often more economical, whereas larger tasks such as installing a new control panel tend to be pricier.
Cooktop, Range, and Oven Repair
Repairing cooktops, ranges, and ovens typically costs between $100 and $500. However, costs can fluctuate significantly depending on factors such as the stove’s model, energy source, and the specific repair needed. For instance, replacing burner coils tends to be on the lower end of the price spectrum, whereas more expensive repairs may include fixing a broken glass top or addressing control panel failures.
Microwave Repair
Microwave repairs typically cost between $90 and $440. However, given that brand-new microwaves generally cost between $90 and $2,040, repairing this appliance may not always be justified. Typically, if the repair expenses exceed half the price of a new unit, opting for a replacement is often more sensible.
Dishwasher Repair
Repairing a dishwasher typically costs between $200 and $340, with an average cost of around $240. Common issues with dishwashers often revolve around the motor, pump, valve, or filter. If drainage problems arise, a local plumber may be necessary to properly diagnose and address the issue.
Washing Machine Repair
Repairing a washing machine can cost from $90 to $490, depending on the complexity of the repair required. Minor fixes like replacing seals or repairing the loading door typically incur lower costs, whereas replacing components like the transmission, clutch, or pump tends to be more expensive. While washing machines generally have a lifespan of around ten years, it’s not uncommon to require repairs after five years of regular usage.
Dryer Repair
Typically, repairing a dryer costs between $140 and $440. Minor repairs, such as installing new bearings or replacing a broken belt, tend to be at the lower end of the cost spectrum. Conversely, more significant fixes, such as replacing the motor or installing a new heating element, are likely to be the most expensive options.