Kitchen Appliance Costs: A Practical Guide to Repair and Replacement

When a dishwasher starts leaking or a hob stops heating, the first question most of us ask is – how much will it cost? Knowing the typical price ranges for common kitchen appliances helps you decide whether to call a pro, tackle a DIY fix, or start shopping for a new unit.

How Much Do Repairs Usually Set You Back?

Repair costs vary a lot, but you can use a few rule‑of‑thumb figures to keep budgets realistic. A simple hob reset or element swap often stays under £100, while a full oven control board replacement can climb to £250‑£350, parts and labour included. Hot water heaters sit in a middle range; a minor thermostat fix might be £80‑£120, but a faulty heating element can push the bill past £200.

What drives these numbers? Age, brand, and the specific fault all matter. Older appliances tend to need more labour because parts are harder to find. Premium brands charge more for OEM components, while generic models usually have cheaper alternatives. If you’re dealing with a well‑known issue – like a clogged dishwasher pump – expect a quicker, cheaper fix because technicians see it every day.

When Is It Smarter to Replace Instead of Repair?

Sometimes the repair bill nears or exceeds the price of a brand‑new appliance. A common benchmark is the “50 % rule”: if the repair estimate is more than half the cost of a comparable new unit, replacement is often the better choice. This rule also considers future reliability – a fresh fridge or oven typically comes with a warranty and better energy efficiency.

Look at the appliance’s lifespan, too. Washing machines usually last 8‑12 years; if yours is approaching that mark and needs a major component like a motor, replacement makes sense. For ovens, if you’re over ten years old and the heating element or control board is giving you grief, swapping it out could save you repeated service calls.

Don’t forget hidden costs. Older models may use more electricity, bumping up your utility bills. A brand‑new dishwasher with an A+++ rating can shave a few pounds off your monthly power bill, helping offset the upfront purchase price.

Finally, think about your own DIY confidence. Simple jobs – resetting a hob, cleaning a fridge coil, or tightening a dishwasher latch – can be done in under an hour with basic tools. If you’re comfortable with those, you’ll keep your out‑of‑pocket costs low. Complex electrical work, gas connections, or sealed‑system repairs should stay in the hands of certified technicians to avoid safety hazards and further expense.

Bottom line: gather a few quotes, compare them against the current market price for a new appliance, and factor in age, energy use, and your own skill set. With that information, you’ll make a confident decision that protects both your wallet and your kitchen’s performance.