Cost of Repair: What You’ll Actually Pay to Fix Household Appliances

Got a broken washing machine, a humming fridge, or an oven that won’t heat? Before you panic, it helps to know the real cost of repair. Prices differ a lot, but most fixes fall into a few clear ranges. Knowing those ranges lets you decide if a quick call to a local pro makes sense or if a DIY patch could save you a few pounds.

What Determines the Price?

First, look at the part that’s broken. A simple thermostat or a blown fuse usually costs under £30 for the part plus a basic service fee. More complex components—like a compressor in a fridge or an induction hob coil—can push the parts price to £150 or more. The labour charge follows a similar pattern: straightforward jobs take 30‑45 minutes and are billed around £50‑£80, while a full‑time replacement of a heat pump or a water‑heater might run an hour or two, costing £100‑£150.

Second, think about the appliance’s age. A ten‑year‑old fridge is often cheaper to replace than to keep fixing, because parts become scarce and the unit’s efficiency drops. Newer machines, especially those still under warranty, usually cost less to repair because the labour is covered or the parts are readily available.

Third, the location matters. Technicians in Northampton charge similar rates to the rest of the UK, but travel fees can add £10‑£20 if you’re on the outskirts. Some companies bundle travel into a flat service fee, so it’s worth asking up front.

Repair vs Replace: When to Call a Pro

If the repair cost tops 50‑60% of a brand‑new replacement, it’s a good sign to start looking at a new model. For example, a dishwasher repair that costs £250 is usually more than half the price of a decent new unit, so swapping out makes more sense.

On the other hand, a small fix—like replacing a broken oven door seal for £40—pays for itself in a few months of saved energy. In those cases, a quick call to a local repair service gets you back to cooking without a big bill.

DIY can work for the brave, but only for tasks you feel comfortable with. Changing a fridge light bulb, cleaning a filter, or tightening a loose hose are safe projects. Anything involving electrical components, gas lines, or refrigerant should be left to certified technicians. A botched DIY job can turn a £50 fix into a £300 nightmare.

Finally, ask for a written estimate before any work starts. A reputable Northampton repair service will break down parts, labour, and any extra fees. This transparency helps you compare options and avoid surprise charges.

Bottom line: most everyday appliance repairs fall between £50 and £180, with the exact price depending on the part, age, and complexity. Use the cost‑vs‑replace rule of thumb, check warranty coverage, and get a clear quote. With that info in hand, you’ll know whether to call a pro or roll up your sleeves for a simple fix.