Cost guide: domestic appliance repairs

We’ve asked our Which? Trusted Traders for a rough guide to appliance repair costs, from how much it costs to fix an oven to washing machine repair costs.

In this article

We’ve spoken to the professionals to find out how much you might need to pay¹ for 12 common repairs to washing machines, dishwashers and other household appliances.

Our figures are only a guide to average costs, and there are several factors that can affect how much you’ll be charged, including:

  • where you live
  • the age and condition of your appliances
  • how long the job takes
  • the make and model of the appliance
  • the cost of any new parts that are needed (which will vary depending on the manufacturer and appliance).


Many appliance repairers will charge an initial call-out fee that typically covers the first hour - and is likely to be more if they live at a distance - followed by an hourly rate, depending on how long the job takes.

Call-out charges will vary depending on your region, and can range from £45-£125. Hourly rates tend to be lower. Make sure you ask your repairer upfront about their charges. 

All prices below include labour and materials but exclude VAT, and are based on a standard, mid-range appliance. Completion times are based on the trader already having any necessary parts needed for the repair.

Find trusted repairers near you by searching for appliance repairs and servicing. Only repairers who have passed an assessment by our trading standards professional, and who follow our Code of Conduct, can become a Trusted Traders.

Tumble dryer and washing machine repair costs

Job

Typical price quoted

Price range

Time to do job

Washing machine – supply and fit new door seal

£86

£79-£102

0.5-1 hour

Washing machine – supply and fit new motor brushes

£79

£63-£99

0.5-1 hour

Washing machine – supply and fit new motor

£230

£201-£275

1 hour

Washing machine – supply and fit new pump

£98

£89-£105

0.5-1 hour

Tumble dryer – supply and fit new heating element

£102

£92-£114

0.5-1 hour

 

You might want to take a look at our guides on how to fix common washing machine problems and tumble dryer maintenance tips in case you're able to rectify the issue yourself.

If your machine is beyond repair, don't buy new before checking out our tumble dryer and washing machine reviews based on expert lab testing.

How much does it cost to fix an oven?

Job

Typical price quoted

Price range

Time to do job

Electric fan oven – supply and fit new element

£87

£83-£98

0.5-1 hour

Electric fan oven – supply and fit new thermostat

£86

£89-£104

1 hour

 

If you need a new oven, visit our reviews of built-in ovens, freestanding cookers and range cookers

Dishwasher and fridge-freezer repair costs

Job

Typical price quoted

Price range

Time to do job

Dishwasher – supply and fit new pump

£102

£93-£127

0.5-1 hour

Dishwasher – supply and fit new motor

£205

£174-£250

1-2 hours

Dishwasher – supply and fit new heating element

£138

£109-£184

1-2 hours

Fridge freezer – supply and fit new door seal/gasket

£85

£76-£115

0.5-1 hour

Fridge – supply and fit new thermostat

£86

£77-£110

0.5-1 hour

 

We have a collection of articles on how to fix common dishwasher issues in case you have a glitch that you can tackle.

If your dishwasher or fridge-freezer is a lost cause, take a look at our dishwasher and fridge-freezer reviews to find one that will last.

The cost of appliance parts

If the trader needs to use parts during the repair, discuss the cost of these in advance so that you can weigh up whether it’s worth repairing your faulty appliance or replacing it instead.

Most traders can offer you a choice between genuine parts (manufacturer approved) or generic ‘pattern’ parts, which usually cost much less. Whichever you choose, ensure your new part comes with a warranty.

Trader vs manufacturer repair

If you have a fault with your machine, you might be wondering whether you should call the manufacturer and get a repair for free as opposed to calling in a sole trader. The first thing to think about is whether the machine is still covered by a guarantee or warranty. 

Guarantees are essentially an assurance that the manufacturer will repair or replace the product if it doesn’t live up to the quality or lifespan claimed. They are free, but you’re often required to fill out a registration card to validate it.

Warranties, which often cost but can last longer than a guarantee, may offer wider protection, such as in cases of accidental damage.

If the issue happens while one of these is still in place, you should contact the manufacturer. Do check the terms and conditions first to see exactly what the guarantee or warranty covers – they don’t always apply to everything.

Even if you don’t have one of these, you do have statutory rights to a repair or replacement if the product doesn’t live up to its promises, depending on how long you have had it.

Visit our guides to guarantees and warranties and your statutory rights to find out more about what to do in these situations and what your rights are.

If you decide to use a trusted trader anyway while a guarantee or warranty is still valid, just be aware that this may void them. It’s the same if you attempt to repair it yourself.

If your machine is out of warranty and guarantee and needs a repair, find a trusted appliance repairer near you using Which? Trusted Traders.

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¹Costs were checked and updated in 2018.