The cost to repair home appliances can quickly add up. Is it worth it to fix your old refrigerator, or would buying a new one be cheaper? Knowing the price of repair costs can help you weigh your options and make the right decision.
This is a list of common appliances with average repair costs to help you choose whether to repair or replace.
Is it worth it to fix an appliance?
Appliance repair costs can vary depending on the issue. Additional costs are incurred to hire an appliance repair technician, purchase parts, and to actually perform the fix.
If your appliance is under five years old, repairs are often the best option. Parts are likely still being manufactured. Likewise, elements that are still working can be expected to keep going for several more years. Sometimes even older appliances are still worth fixing if the repair cost is less than purchasing a new unit.
If these costs worry you, a home warranty plan covers home systems and appliances. Many appliances that break down due to regular use can be repaired under a good home warranty.
The best news is that a home warranty doesn’t care about an appliance’s age when it comes to coverage. This means – regardless of age – if it’s covered, it’s covered.
Did you know? A home warranty and homeowner’s insurance complement each other, giving you extra peace of mind when it comes to protecting your investment.
What appliances commonly need repairs?
There are six popular home appliances that commonly need repair or replacement.
Refrigerator Repair Costs
The average price to repair a refrigerator is $230-$300. Your final total without a warranty will depend on the type of repair, price of parts, and labor costs.
What parts are most likely to break?
- Automatic ice maker
- Compressor
How long should a refrigerator last?
A properly maintained refrigerator should last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. If you’re near the 15-year mark, it’s worth considering a new refrigerator if you’re having a lot of issues.
Is repairing a refrigerator worth it?
A new refrigerator costs between $1,000 and $4,000 dollars. It is almost always cheaper to repair your refrigerator rather than to replace it.
Oven Repair Costs
Problems with ovens and stoves will vary based on whether you have a gas or electric model. Typically, repairs to gas ovens cost $100-$500. The added cost comes from the hazards of working with the natural gas connection.
Meanwhile, an electric oven costs between $100 and $250 to repair. These appliances are safer to work on. Therefore, repair costs are lower.
What parts are most likely to break?
- Control board
- Igniter
- Heating element
How long should an oven last?
Electric ovens last 13 years on average, while gas ovens last 15 years if kept clean and properly maintained.
Is repairing an oven worth it?
The cost of a new oven averages between $700 and $1,500. Price isn’t the only thing to consider when deciding between replacement and repair for an oven. You also need to think about the size and fit, especially for built-in models. With this in mind, repairing is often your best option.
Dishwasher Repair Costs
Repairing a dishwasher is relatively cheap in comparison to other kitchen appliances. The average cost of repairs is between $150 and $160. Many issues related to dishwashers are also DIY repairs, so you’ll only have to pay for a new part and devote the time to the fix.
Of course, with home warranty coverage, you won’t have to do much more than make a claim and pay a modest day-of-service fee.
What parts are most likely to break?
- Seals
- Filter
- Door springs
How long should a dishwasher last?
A dishwasher should last about 10 years when properly maintained.
Is repairing a dishwasher worth it?
Many dishwasher problems can easily be repaired on your own. However, some issues, such as water pooling under the dishwasher and water not draining properly, may be related to plumbing.
In these instances, be sure to call in a professional to determine whether it’s an appliance or plumbing issue. Still, repair is almost always the best option with a dishwasher.
Have a plumbing problem? A home warranty can help!
Washing Machine Repair Costs
Average repair costs for a clothes washing machine fall between $125 and $250. However, the longer your washing machine is out of commission, the more money you’ll have to spend at the laundromat.
What parts are most likely to break?
- Motor
- Coupler
- Water pump
How long should a clothes washer last?
A clothes washer should last 10 to 13 years. Be sure to regularly clean and maintain your appliance to ensure a long and productive lifespan.
Is repairing a washing machine worth it?
As long as the machine is less than five years old, it’s worth it to repair. If your clothes washer is getting older, replacing your washing machine may save you from multiple repair costs in the future.
Clothes Dryer Repair Costs
Fixing a clothes dryer often costs between $150 and $350. This is for electric clothes dryers. If you have a gas dryer, expect the price to be $50 to $100 more, on average.
What parts are most likely to break?
- Drum
- Blower
- Heating element
- Dryer belt
How long should a clothes dryer last?
Much like a washing machine, a clothes dryer should last about 10 to 13 years on average.
Is repairing a clothes dryer worth it?
It depends on the repair cost and the price of your dryer. Clothes dryers are one of the pricier appliances to repair. While fixing premium dryers can cost over $1,500, an affordable model costs between $200 and $400 depending on the problem.
With clothes dryers, it occasionally makes more sense to buy a replacement.
Water Heater Repair Costs
The average price for a water heater repair costs about $500.
What parts are most likely to break?
- Water storage tank
- Thermostat
- Gas control valve
- Heating coils
- Temperature and pressure (T&P) valve
How long should a water heater last?
The lifespan of a water heater depends on the type of appliance you have in your home.
- Electric: 10-15 years
- Gas: 8-10 years
- Tankless: 15+ years
As with all home appliances, proper maintenance and cleaning can ensure that your water heater will last long.
Is repairing a water heater worth it?
If your water heater isn’t nearing the end of its lifespan, it is much cheaper to repair than to replace. New tank water heaters average $1,100, while a new tankless model costs around $2,500.
Avoid costly appliance repairs with a home warranty.
Knowing repair costs will make it easier to decide whether to repair or replace home appliances. It’s all about what expenses outweigh the others. However, with a home warranty, these costs may be completely covered.
No need to worry about hourly rates or replacement part prices. All you need to do is make a claim and pay a small service fee. Beyond that, our team and our network of expert repair technicians can take care of the rest.
We rely on appliances for our family’s daily needs. Having a plan in place for when breakdowns occur is vital. Select plans can also include coverage for non-essential – but still important – appliances and home systems, such as garbage disposals, ceiling fans, and garage door openers.
Concerned about the cost of a home warranty? They’re actually quite affordable! Find out what a home warranty costs or call us at 860-288-4791.
