Cost of Repair: What You’ll Actually Pay to Fix Common Appliances

If your dishwasher is leaking or your washing machine won’t spin, the first thing you wonder is the price tag. Repair costs can feel like a mystery, but they’re not. Below we break down the usual fees, the reasons they change, and simple ways to keep the bill low.

Typical Price Ranges for the Most Used Appliances

Here’s a quick look at what most homeowners spend in the UK. These numbers are averages from local technicians; your exact quote may be a bit higher or lower.

• Dishwasher: £70‑£150 for a minor leak or pump fix.
• Washing machine: £80‑£180 for belt, motor, or drum repairs.
• Dryer: £60‑£130 for heating element or thermostat issues.
• Oven/electric hob: £90‑£200 for element, thermostat or control board work.
• Hot water heater: £100‑£250 for thermostat, heating element or gas valve faults.

Big jobs like a full boiler overhaul or a compressor replacement can push past £400, but they’re less common.

What Makes Repair Prices Jump Up or Down?

Knowing the drivers behind the cost helps you budget better.

Age of the appliance. Older units often need harder‑to‑find parts, which adds markup. If the model is more than 10‑12 years old, a replacement might be cheaper.

Type of fault. Simple things like a blown fuse or a loose wire usually cost under £80. Complex issues like a motor burn‑out or a control board swap can double the price.

Location and labour rates. Technicians in major cities charge more for travel and time. Some companies have a flat‑rate call‑out fee (often £30‑£50) that’s added on.

Warranty or insurance coverage. If your appliance is still under the manufacturer’s warranty, you may only pay a call‑out fee. Home insurance sometimes covers specific breakdowns, so check your policy.

DIY vs professional. For a confident DIYer, swapping a heating element or a simple sensor can save you £80‑£120. But if you’re unsure, a wrong move can cost more in the long run.

These factors combine in different ways, so two identical repairs can have slightly different totals.

Should You Repair or Replace?

A common rule of thumb is the 50 % rule: if the repair costs more than half the price of a new appliance, think about replacing. But there are other things to weigh.

Energy efficiency. Newer models often use less electricity or water, which saves you money after the purchase.

Frequency of breakdowns. If the same appliance has needed three fixes in the past two years, it’s probably on its last legs.

Environmental impact. Keeping a working unit longer reduces waste. If the repair is minor and the device still works well, fixing it is the greener choice.

Use these points to decide whether a £120 dishwasher fix is worth it or if a £350 replacement makes more sense.

Tips to Keep Repair Bills Low

1. Ask for a detailed quote. A good technician will break down parts, labour and any call‑out fee.

2. Shop for parts yourself. If you’re comfortable, order the part online and hand it to the tech – you’ll avoid their markup.

3. Schedule regular maintenance. A quick clean‑out of filters and checking seals can prevent costly breakdowns later.

4. Bundle jobs. If you have several appliances acting up, ask for a combined service call – many firms give a discount.

5. Consider a service plan. Some companies offer annual check‑ups for a flat fee; it can be cheaper if you have multiple appliances.

By being proactive and asking the right questions, you can keep your repair costs predictable and avoid surprise bills.

Bottom line: repair prices vary, but understanding the typical ranges, what drives the cost, and when to replace helps you make smarter choices. Whether you end up fixing a leaky dishwasher or buying a new oven, you’ll know exactly why the price looks the way it does.