Appliance repairs involve costs for labor, parts, and potentially additional service fees. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect.
Average Appliance Repair Costs by Type
| Appliance | Average Cost Range |
|-------------------------|--------------------------|
| Refrigerator | $200–$300 |
| Freezer | $90–$500 |
| Cooktop/Range/Oven | $100–$500 |
| Microwave | $50–$400 |
| Dishwasher | $160–$300 |
| Garbage Disposal | $70–$250 |
| Washing Machine | $50–$450 |
| Dryer | $100–$400 |
Factors Influencing Repair Costs
- Labor Costs
- Typical Range: $50–$150/hour.
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Master technicians may charge up to $200/hour.
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Parts Costs
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Can vary significantly depending on the component:
- Dryer control boards: $250+
- Refrigerator condenser: $200–$450
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Service Fees
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Typical Fee: $50–$100 for technician travel and diagnostics.
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Energy Source
- Gas appliances: ~20% more expensive than electric.
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Solar-powered appliances: Higher costs due to complexity.
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Emergency Repairs
- Add $50–$200 for after-hours or weekend repairs.
Repair Costs by Appliance Type
Refrigerator Repair
- Average Cost: $200–$300
- Common Issues: Leaking, ice machine failure, cooling issues, odd noises.
Freezer Repair
- Average Cost: $90–$500
- Notes: More complex mechanics lead to higher costs compared to fridges.
Cooktop, Range, and Oven Repair
- Average Cost: $100–$500
- Common Fixes: Burner replacement, control panel repair, or glass-top fixes.
Microwave Repair
- Average Cost: $50–$400
- Tip: Replacement is more cost-effective if repair exceeds 50% of new unit price.
Dishwasher Repair
- Average Cost: $160–$300
- Issues: Motor/pump failure, drainage problems.
Garbage Disposal Repair
- Average Cost: $70–$250
- Tip: Replacement may be more economical for older units.
Washing Machine Repair
- Average Cost: $50–$450
- Common Issues: Seal replacement, clutch, transmission, or pump issues.
Dryer Repair
- Average Cost: $100–$400
- Common Fixes: Belt replacement, motor repair, or heating element replacement.
Add-Ons and Maintenance Costs
- Maintenance Plans
- Cost: $100–$300/year.
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Includes tune-ups, cleaning, and inspections.
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Extended Warranties
- Cost: $200–$400.
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Covers repairs beyond standard manufacturer warranties.
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Appliance Refinishing
- Cost: $150–$750.
- Improves aesthetics without replacing the appliance.
DIY vs. Hiring a Professional
- DIY Costs: Limited to parts and tools for minor fixes.
- Professional Costs:
- Hourly Rate: $50–$200/hour.
- Safer for complex repairs involving plumbing or electricity.
Tip: Consider hiring a pro if unsure about safety or long-term reliability of DIY repairs.
5 Ways to Save on Repairs
- Check Warranties: Repairs may be covered by manufacturer or extended warranties.
- Inspect First: Look for clogs, loose connections, or minor damage before calling a pro.
- Regular Maintenance: Clean filters, vents, and avoid overloading appliances.
- Compare Quotes: Get estimates from multiple repair services.
- Invest in Quality Appliances: Durable models require fewer repairs over time.
Keep your appliances running smoothly by balancing repair costs with long-term maintenance strategies.
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