Microwave Cost: What You’ll Pay to Repair or Replace

If your microwave suddenly stops heating, makes weird noises, or the turntable quits, the first question on everyone’s mind is “how much will it cost?”. The answer depends on what’s wrong, the model you have, and whether you choose a pro or a DIY fix. Below we unpack the most common price points so you can avoid surprise bills.

Typical Repair Costs

Most microwave issues boil down to three parts: the fuse, the magnetron, or the control board. A blown fuse is the cheapest fix – usually between £10 and £30 for the part, plus a £40‑£60 labour charge if you call a technician. Expect a total of £50‑£90.

The magnetron is the heart of the microwave that actually creates the heat. Replacing it costs more, typically £70‑£120 for the part and £80‑£120 in labour, so the overall bill lands around £150‑£240. Because the magnetron is a high‑power component, many technicians recommend replacement only if the rest of the unit is in good shape.

Control board failures are trickier. The board can cost £80‑£150, and labour to diagnose and install adds another £70‑£100. You’re looking at a range of £150‑£250. Some shops will suggest a full unit swap if the board repair approaches the price of a new microwave.

Don’t forget hidden costs like travel fees (often £15‑£30) and the minimum service call charge (usually £30‑£50). If you’re lucky and can order the part yourself, you might shave £20‑£40 off the total.

When Replacement Beats Repair

Even if a repair seems affordable, it’s worth weighing the age of your appliance. Microwaves typically last 7‑10 years. If yours is older than 8 years and the repair cost exceeds £150, a new unit often gives better value. Modern microwaves are more energy‑efficient and come with warranties that cover parts for a year or two.

Budget models can be purchased for £50‑£100, while mid‑range units sit around £120‑£180. If you need extra features like grill, convection, or child lock, expect to pay £200‑£300. Many retailers run sales where you can snag a decent model for under £150, beating a costly repair.

Another factor is frequency of breakdowns. If you’ve already fixed the door latch or turnedtable once, the next problem might be just around the corner. In that case, putting the money toward a reliable replacement saves time and future hassle.

Before you decide, ask for a written estimate that breaks down parts, labour, and any extra fees. Compare that total to the price of a comparable new microwave. If the repair is less than 50% of a new unit’s cost and the appliance is relatively new, fixing it makes sense.

Lastly, don’t overlook energy savings. An old microwave can use 10‑15% more power than a newer, efficient model. Over a few years, that difference adds up and can tip the scales toward replacement.

Bottom line: small fixes like a fuse are cheap and quick; bigger component failures hover around £150‑£250; and if your microwave is aging or the repair hits half the price of a new one, replacement is usually the smarter move. Knowing these numbers helps you choose confidently and keep your kitchen humming without breaking the bank.