Appliance Repair Cost Guide – What You’ll Actually Pay

Facing a broken fridge or a noisy washing machine? Before you call a plumber or throw the thing out, you’ll want to know the real cost of fixing it. In this guide we break down typical price ranges for the most common appliances, explain what drives the price up or down, and give you practical tips to keep the bill low.

Typical Repair Prices by Appliance

Here’s a quick snapshot of what most homeowners in South Shields pay for a standard repair. All figures are average estimates; your exact quote may differ based on the brand, age, and how badly the part is damaged.

• Washing machine: £70‑£150 for motor or pump issues; £120‑£250 for control board replacement.
• Dishwasher: £80‑£180 for spray arm or pump fixes; £150‑£300 if you need a new pump motor.
• Oven / Hob: £90‑£200 for heating element or thermostat swaps; glass hob cracks can cost £120‑£250.
• Refrigerator: £100‑£200 for compressor or fan problems; a full‑unit replacement may be cheaper after £400.
• Boiler: £120‑£250 for gas‑safe engineer service; part replacements (heat exchanger, pump) add £150‑£400.

These numbers include labour and a standard warranty on the part. If you need an emergency call‑out outside normal hours, expect an extra £40‑£80.

Factors That Influence Your Repair Bill

Understanding why a quote can jump helps you negotiate better and avoid surprise charges. The main drivers are:

1. Age of the appliance: Older units often need hard‑to‑find parts, which can be pricey.
2. Brand and model: Premium brands may use proprietary components that cost more than generic equivalents.
3. Fault complexity: A simple gasket leak is cheap, but a broken control board involves diagnostics, programming and a higher part cost.
4. Location and travel: Technicians travelling far from their base may add a mileage fee.
5. Warranty status: If your appliance is still under manufacturer warranty, you might get a free fix or a reduced fee.

Ask the technician for a breakdown before they start work. A clear itemised quote lets you decide if the repair is worth it.

So, when does a repair make sense? A good rule of thumb is the “50 % rule”: if the repair costs less than half the price of a comparable new appliance, it’s usually worth fixing. For high‑energy devices like boilers or fridges, also factor in running costs – an older unit may be cheap to fix but expensive to run.

Want to lower the cost even more? Here are three easy steps:

• Regular maintenance: A quick clean‑out of lint filters, fridge coils and boiler pressure can prevent costly breakdowns.
• Get multiple quotes: Even in South Shields, a quick phone call to two local repair services can shave off £20‑£40.
• Ask about refurbished parts: Many reputable shops offer reconditioned components that work like new for a fraction of the price.

Remember, a cheap repair today might turn into a bigger problem tomorrow if the root cause isn’t fixed. Choose a certified technician who explains what’s wrong, not just what to replace.

Bottom line: Knowing the typical cost ranges, the factors that push prices up, and simple ways to save puts you in control. Whether you’re dealing with a noisy dishwasher or a leaky boiler, you now have the facts to make a smart decision without breaking the bank.