Appliance repair costs: repair or replace?

Updated October 2026.

How repair pricing usually works

Most independent technicians charge:

1. A service-call or diagnostic fee to come out and diagnose the problem. Many credit it toward the repair if you go ahead, so ask.
2. Parts, which range from inexpensive (switches, fuses, igniters) to costly (control boards, compressors).
3. Labor, often quoted as a flat rate per repair type rather than hourly.

Ask for the total price in writing before work starts, along with the warranty on parts and labor.

What drives cost up

• Premium and built-in brands, with more expensive parts and specialized training
• Sealed-system refrigerator repairs (compressor, refrigerant leaks)
• Control boards and electronics
• Parts availability for older or discontinued models
• Hard-to-access installations (stacked laundry, built-ins)

Typical lifespans (rough guide)

Lifespans vary with brand, use and maintenance.

A simple repair-or-replace framework

• Repair when the appliance is less than halfway through its typical lifespan, or the repair costs less than about half the price of a comparable new unit.
• Lean toward replacing when the appliance is near the end of its lifespan and the repair is a major component (compressor, transmission, main control board), or it has needed several repairs recently.
• Usually repair built-in refrigerators, pro-style ranges and other high-end appliances, where replacement costs are high and installation is custom.

Warranties to check first

• Manufacturer warranty (often one year, with longer coverage on some components like sealed systems or motors)
• Extended warranty from the retailer
• Home warranty plan: you'll usually need to start the claim through the plan
• Credit card purchase protection, which some cards add to the manufacturer warranty

Get a diagnosis

When you're unsure, a diagnostic visit gives you the facts to decide. Call the number on this page to connect with a local technician.