Let’s face it—nobody cheers when an appliance breaks down.
Maybe you’ve been eyeing a sleek new range or a modern fridge, but when the timing’s off and your budget’s tight, a sudden failure can feel like a punch to the gut.
You’re left wrestling with a big question: shell out for appliance repairs or bite the bullet and replace it altogether?
Understanding the costs behind appliance repair vs replacement can light the way to a smart choice.
From the brand and repair type to local labor rates, this guide breaks down what drives appliance repair expenses and whether they’re worth it.
What You Can Expect to Pay for Repairs
The average homeowner shells out about $179 for appliance repairs—but that’s just a starting point.
This industry-wide figure doesn’t capture the full story, as costs swing widely depending on the appliance. Fixing a refrigerator typically runs around $250, while a range might set you back anywhere from $100 to $500.
Brand matters, too—a luxury model with intricate systems and pricier parts could push your bill past $1,000, especially for high-end repairs.
On the flip side, a simple fix might only cost you $100, but major overhauls can escalate fast. Pinning down your exact repair tab is tricky with so many variables at play, from the appliance type to the scale of the problem.
➜ Learn More: Is it Cheaper to Repair or Replace Appliances?
Why Do Appliance Repair Costs Vary?
It helps to look at all the criteria involved in appliance repair to develop a better understanding of your costs.
While you might not know exactly what your repair bill will be, these factors can help you gauge your estimated appliance repair service rate. This way, you will know if you are being overcharged.
- Appliance type: Some appliances are more complicated than others and have various systems that can break. This also makes them harder to repair. For example, a cooktop has complex electrical elements, while a dishwasher has both electric and plumbing systems.
- Parts availability: Major brands that sell diverse product lines are often easier to repair because service teams keep their parts on hand. If you have a less common brand, it might take longer to order your parts, and they might not be as affordable.
- Labor costs: Some systems are easier to repair than others. Repair teams might charge more if the work is manually complicated.
- Service fees: These fees vary by region. Most professionals charge a base fee to visit a house and then adjust their labor costs based on what needs to be done.
- Number of issues: There might be more than one problem with your appliance, increasing your costs as the number of repairs and parts needed grows.
Unfortunately, unless you diagnose the problem yourself before the repair team arrives, you might not know what is wrong with your appliance and how to fix it. This means you might not know the final cost of repairs until you meet with service technicians.
➜ Learn More: How to Prepare for a Home Appliance Repair Service Visit [COVID-19]
Repair vs. Replace: When Is It Worth Fixing?
Researching your expected appliance repair cost is essential for deciding whether you want to fix your unit or replace it with a new one. Here are a few things to consider as you weigh the costs of repairs with the price of a new model.
- The age of the appliance: Older appliances are worth less and are more likely to have additional repair needs in the future. Investing in repairs for an old unit might not be worth it.
- Warranty coverage: See if your appliance is still under warranty, which could reduce your repair costs.
- Repair costs: Get an estimate of your repair costs and weigh them against the price of a new unit. You could put the money you would spend on repairs toward a new unit instead.
The average appliance lasts 10 years, with some high-end models lasting 15 to 20 years. The closer your appliance is to the 10-year mark, the more it makes sense to replace it.
➜ Learn More: Refrigerator Not cooling? Here's Why
How to Find Affordable Repair Services
Once you’ve decided appliance repair is the way to go, it’s time to hunt for the right service.
You’ve got two paths: call around for quotes from multiple companies to gauge the average cost, or lean on a trusted repair team you already know. Gathering quotes helps you spot a fair deal—ensuring you’re not overpaying—while sticking with a reliable local company can save you time and hassle.
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we’re proud to offer affordable, trustworthy repairs. Our customers rely on us not just for top appliance picks but also for fair pricing and warranty checks that cut costs.
Wherever you look, peek at online reviews to weigh technician quality and pricing. A bargain’s great, but you need repairs that hold up for the long haul.
➜ Learn More: Your Guide to Appliance Repair in Phoenix
What Does It Cost to Fix Different Appliances?
Appliance repair costs vary depending on what needs to be fixed. While small kitchen appliance repair might cost less than $100, you could spend more than $500 for major repair issues on high-end brands. Here are a few common household appliances and the cost to repair them:
| Appliance | Repair Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | $125 – $500 |
| Cooktop | $100 – $300 |
| Oven | $130 – $350 |
| Dishwasher | $100 – $300 |
| Washer | $100 – $400 |
| Dryer | $100 – $300 |
Key Cost Factors
- Type of Repair: Minor fixes like replacing a thermostat cost less than major component failures.
- Brand & Model: High-end brands and specialty appliances typically have higher repair costs.
- Labor & Parts: Costs vary based on service rates and the availability of replacement parts.
For small kitchen appliances, repairs often cost under $100, while high-end appliances or complex repairs can exceed $500. Always compare repair costs with the price of a new appliance to determine if replacement is the better option.
Best Appliance Repair Services
At Spencers, we get it—a broken appliance can throw your whole routine off. A faulty dishwasher stalls your meal prep, and a busted washer leaves laundry towering.
That’s why we jump into action fast, tackling repair calls with speed and care to get you back on track.
Known across Arizona for affordable, high-quality service, we’re here to deliver value you can count on. When appliance trouble strikes, trust Spencer’s to fix it right—contact us today!
What’s the Right Repair Choice for You?
When your fridge or range quits, start by checking the expected repair cost—it’s your key to deciding between fixing or replacing that worn-out unit.
Weigh the price of a new appliance against repair expenses and ask if a fix will truly extend its life or just patch it temporarily.
Whether you choose repair or replacement, Spencers TV & Appliance has you covered with affordable, expert services and top-notch replacement options. Stop by today for the support you need!
Frequently Asked Questions
Most people will pay around $250 to repair a refrigerator; however, the price varies depending on the brand, issue, and region. High-end refrigerator repairs are more expensive and could cost up to $1,000. In some cases, it might be more economical to replace the refrigerator entirely.
Washing machine repair costs can be as low as $50 and as high as $500. The decision to repair or replace this appliance depends on the repair costs and the age of the unit. If your repair bill is high and the washer is older, replacing it might be a better option.
Read online reviews to see what other customers have to say about repair companies. They will mention whether they thought the pricing was fair or too high. You can also call around and ask for repair quotes to determine how much the project will cost.
Several factors contribute to the cost of appliance repair. You will need to factor in the brand, the nature of the repair, and local repair rates. More complex breaks with more expensive parts will drive up your repair costs.
Warranties can give you peace of mind that your repair cost will be lower if something goes wrong. Some warranties last several years and cover expensive parts that otherwise contribute significantly to your bill. Many people feel like appliance warranties are worth having.
Why Trust Spencers TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencers TV & Appliance has grown to 11 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. Our prices consistently beat those of big box stores like Lowe's and Home Depot! Unlike the often overwhelming atmosphere of larger retailers, Spencer’s provides a more intimate and attentive environment, ensuring that customers find exactly what they need at the best possible price.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Quality Appliances at Spencers
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop the best appliances for your home. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find the best Monogram refrigerator for your kitchen, no matter what! Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!