Appliance Cost: What You’ll Actually Pay for Repairs
When a fridge stops cooling or a washing machine won’t spin, the first thing on most people’s minds is the bill. Knowing the typical price range for each job helps you avoid surprises and decide if it’s worth fixing or replacing.
Typical Prices for the Most Common Jobs
Fridge repair – Most issues, like a faulty thermostat or a broken door seal, run between £70 and £150. A full compressor replacement can push the cost up to £300‑£400.
Washing machine fixes – A leaking door seal or a worn pump usually costs £80‑£130. Replacing a drum motor may cost £200‑£250.
Oven and hob repair – Simple heating element swaps are around £100‑£150. If you have a cracked glass hob, expect £150‑£250 for parts and labour.
Boiler repair – Minor valve or pressure issues typically cost £90‑£150. Major faults like a heat‑exchanger rebuild can exceed £500.
Heat pump service – Routine checks are about £70‑£120. Replacing a fan motor or refrigerant leak can bring the total to £250‑£350.
What Drives the Cost?
Labor is the biggest part of any invoice. Technicians charge by the hour, and rates vary from £40 to £80 depending on the appliance and the complexity of the job.
Parts also add up quickly. Brand‑name components are usually pricier, but they tend to last longer. For older models you might find cheaper third‑party parts, though they can sometimes cause fit‑issues.
Location matters too. If you live in Rugby, travel time is low, so you’ll often see the lower end of the national price range. Rural areas may add a travel surcharge.
Finally, the age of the appliance plays a role. A brand‑new unit is often cheaper to fix because parts are readily available. With a 15‑year‑old oven, a technician might suggest replacement if the repair cost exceeds 50% of a new one.Here are three quick ways to keep repair costs down:
- Schedule regular maintenance – a simple cleaning can prevent pricey breakdowns.
- Ask for a written estimate before any work starts – it helps you compare offers.
- Consider warranty or insurance coverage – many policies cover parts but not labour.
At Rugby Appliance Repair Services we’re transparent about our pricing. We’ll explain what’s broken, give you a clear cost before we start, and only charge for the work you approve.
So the next time an appliance hiccups, you’ll know the ballpark cost, the factors that influence it, and how to get the best value for your money.