Repair Cost: What You’ll Pay to Fix Home Appliances
Wondering how much it will cost to get your oven, boiler or fridge working again? The price can swing a lot depending on the part that’s broken, the brand, and whether you call a pro or try a DIY fix. Below we break down the most common appliances, the usual price ranges, and tips to keep the bill low.
Typical Prices for the Everyday Appliance
Oven (electric or gas) – A heating element replacement usually runs £70‑£120 for parts plus £50‑£80 for labour. If the thermostat or wiring is the issue, you could see £150‑£250 total. Older ovens often need more time to diagnose, which can bump the labour cost.
Boiler – Minor fixes like a faulty pump or pressure valve are about £80‑£150. A full gas‑fire replacement can jump to £1,200‑£2,000, especially if new pipework is required. Most homeowners end up paying £300‑£500 for a mid‑life fix.
Fridge – A broken compressor is the priciest part, typically £150‑£300 for the part and another £80‑£120 for labour. Simple seal or fan repairs are often under £150 total.
Washing Machine – Replacing a drum belt or pump costs £70‑£130. A motor swap can be £180‑£250. If the machine is older than ten years, you might consider a new one for about £400‑£600.
Glass Hob – Cracks that need a full glass panel run £150‑£250. Small scratches repaired with a polish kit are under £50 if you do it yourself.
What Drives the Price?
**Age of the appliance** – Older models often need harder‑to‑find parts, which pushes the price up. Some technicians charge a “senior‑model surcharge” for anything over eight years.
**Brand reputation** – Premium brands like Bosch or Miele carry higher part costs. Budget brands tend to be cheaper to fix but may need replacement sooner.
**Time of call** – Same‑day or out‑of‑hours service can add £30‑£50 to the bill. Booking in advance usually saves you that extra charge.
**DIY vs professional** – If you’re comfortable with basic electrical work, swapping a fridge seal or a washing‑machine pump can be done for the part price only. Safety should always come first; never tinker with gas‑related parts unless you’re qualified.
**Location** – Rural areas may have higher travel fees. In Rugby we typically see a £15‑£20 travel charge, which is lower than big‑city rates.
**Warranty** – Some appliances are still under manufacturer warranty. A repair claim can cover parts and labour, but you’ll need to follow the exact steps the warranty outlines.
Knowing these factors helps you decide whether a repair is worth it. A good rule of thumb is the 50% rule: if the repair cost is more than half the price of a comparable new unit, replacement might be the smarter move.
When you call a local service like Rugby Appliance Repair Services, ask for a detailed quote before work starts. A clear breakdown of parts, labour and any extra fees lets you compare offers and avoid surprises.
Bottom line: most common appliance repairs fall between £80 and £250. Keep an eye on the age of the item, the brand, and the specific part that’s failed. With that knowledge, you can negotiate a fair price or decide it’s time for a new purchase.