Home appliances have become a vital part of our lives. It’s hard to imagine our homes without our go-to appliances. So, when an appliance suddenly conks out, we need to decide whether to repair or replace the unit. In most cases, repairing the appliance is the best option when considering warranty and cost.
With the rapid advancements in technology, like smart technology and energy-efficient parts, modern appliances have an average life expectancy of six to ten years – and are much shorter than older models. Typically, these parts are more expensive, thus jacking up the average repair cost.
The cost of appliance repair depends on many factors such as the type and model of appliance, nature of the trouble, and the part/s involved. On average, simple appliance repairs can cost between $100 and $250, but they can go as high as $500 to $1,000 for major appliance troubles.
It’s really hard to give an exact estimate of appliance repair. Repairing a washing machine with a broken belt isn’t going to cost the same as a similar unit with a damaged tub. Here, let’s look at the average cost to repair different home appliances.
Refrigerators and freezers
Refrigerators make sure your foods are fresh, and beverages are cold. These appliances are a must in every modern kitchen. Whether providing the desired cooling or producing unusual noises, when the fridge is on the fritz, you need to call a professional to repair it. The average cost to repair a refrigerator is around $250 to $400, covering labor costs and replacement parts. Meanwhile, a refrigerator/freezer unit would be costlier to repair and run anywhere between $500 and $10,000.
Cooktop and oven
If your cooktop or oven isn’t working, prepare to pay between $100 and $250 for its repair. However, depending on the extent of damage or the parts to be fixed, it can even cost a little more than this amount.
Dishwasher
Dishwashers are sturdy machines built to last for almost a decade. But because it is used daily, it is vulnerable to wear and tear, especially the pump, valves, and motor. Likewise, the accumulation of grime and food particle build-up can also drain problems. If you need to have, the dishwasher fixed, be ready to pay around $150 to $300.
Microwave
The average cost to repair the microwave is between $60 and $350. However, modern, high-end microwaves equipped with smart technology can cost around $100 to $2,000. So, before you decide to get the microwave repaired, it is best to consult a trustworthy appliance technician.
Washing Machine
Another certified workhorse, the washing machine, is vulnerable to damage. Depending on the severity of trouble and the part involved, repair costs range between $100 and $300. You also need to consider the cost of the parts to be used during repairs. Don’t wait for your washing machine to suffer more troubles if you want cheaper repair costs before calling a technician.
Dryer
Like the washing machine, the dryer is also a guaranteed heavy-duty machine. Instead of hanging your clothes out on a line, the automatic dryer makes sure your clothes are dry within minutes. But while it is durable, it can have several troubles. In general, fixing a dryer costs around $100 to $400, depending on what parts are broken.
According to technicians at Hartman’s Appliance Repair, these are the appliances that most commonly require repair. While it can be tempting to attempt DIY appliance repair, it is not advisable in all cases. Without proper training and equipment, instead of fixing the appliance, you may end up completely damaging it. Many appliance troubles require dealing with electricity, which requires expertise and is a major safety hazard. Contact a professional technician for the right repair and ensure your safety.
Note that hourly rates, supplies, and replacement parts may vary depending on location. This can impact the repair cost of your appliance. Make sure to get estimates from at least three contractors in your area to give you an idea of the prevailing rates. Warranty coverage can also reduce the amount you’ll spend on repairs, so it’s wise to keep those receipts and warranty certificates. But most importantly, you can prevent unwanted breakdowns with proper appliance maintenance.