Appliance Repair Prices

$80–$400

Typical range · Updated March 2026

Real pricing for washing machine repair, fridge repair, oven repair, dishwasher repair and more across Australia, UK, USA, Canada and New Zealand.

Appliance Repair Prices by Type \u2014 Australia

National average prices \u2014 including labour and GST (parts additional)

ServiceUnitFromAverageUp to
Diagnostic / Callout Fee/visit$80$110$150
Washing Machine Repair/job$150$250$400
Dryer Repair/job$130$220$360
Dishwasher Repair/job$150$230$350
Fridge / Freezer Repair/job$200$320$500
Oven / Cooktop Repair/job$150$260$450
Microwave Repair/job$80$140$220
Rangehood Repair/job$100$170$280
Washing Machine Installation/job$100$150$220
Dishwasher Installation/job$120$175$250
Fridge Seal Replacement/job$80$130$200
Hot Plate Element Replacement/job$80$140$220

Based on verified quotes from appliance repair technicians. All prices AUD including GST. Parts costs are additional. Last updated March 2026.

Common Appliance Repair Jobs and What They Cost

Real project costs based on typical faults \u2014 including callout, diagnosis, and labour.

JobTypical scopeTypical priceTimeframe
Washing machine not draining — pump faultDiagnose fault, replace drain pump, test cycle to confirm resolution$180–$3201–2 hours
Fridge not cooling — thermostat replacementDiagnose cooling fault, replace thermostat or temperature controller, test and confirm$220–$3801–2 hours
Oven not heating — element replacementDiagnose heating fault, replace bake or grill element, test oven temperature$150–$3001–2 hours
Dishwasher not cleaning — spray arm and pump serviceDiagnose cleaning fault, clean or replace spray arms, service pump, run test cycle$160–$3001–2 hours
Dryer not heating — heating element replacementDiagnose heating fault, replace element and thermostat, test drying cycle$150–$2801–2 hours
Dishwasher installation — new applianceConnect dishwasher to existing plumbing and power, test fill, drain and wash cycle$120–$2501–1.5 hours

What Affects the Price of Appliance Repair?

Appliance type and complexity

Fridges and washing machines are among the most expensive appliances to repair due to complex components including compressors, motors, and control boards. Microwaves and rangehoods are generally simpler and cheaper to fix. Installation jobs are usually at the lower end of the cost range.

Parts cost and availability

Parts can make up 30–60% of total repair costs. Common brands like Fisher & Paykel, Bosch, and Samsung have widely available parts that keep costs down. Niche European brands or discontinued models may require imported parts, adding cost and lead time.

Callout and diagnostic fee

Most appliance repair technicians charge a callout or service fee of $80–$150 that applies toward the repair if you proceed. Some providers offer a no-fix-no-fee policy. Always confirm whether the callout fee is included in the repair quote or charged separately.

Brand and model

Brand-authorised repair centres charge a premium but use genuine parts and maintain manufacturer warranties. Independent technicians are usually 20–40% cheaper and can source aftermarket parts. For appliances still under warranty, always use an authorised repairer.

Location and travel

Urban areas have more competition among repairers, keeping prices lower. Regional and rural areas often carry travel surcharges of $30–$80. Sydney and Melbourne technicians typically charge more than Brisbane, Adelaide, or regional cities.

Repair vs replace decision

A common rule of thumb: if the repair cost exceeds 50% of the replacement value, replacing is usually better. For newer appliances or premium brands, repair is often worthwhile. Ask the technician for an honest assessment before committing to parts.

Appliance Repair Price Trends — 2023 to 2026

How appliance repair costs have changed and what to expect in 2026–2027

Service2023 Avg2024 Avg2025 Avg2026 AvgChange
Callout / Diagnostic$90$95$105$110+22%
Washing Machine Repair$210$225$240$250+19%
Fridge / Freezer Repair$270$290$305$320+19%
Oven / Cooktop Repair$220$235$250$260+18%
Dishwasher Repair$190$200$215$230+21%
Dryer Repair$180$190$205$220+22%

Inflation impact

Appliance repair costs have risen roughly 18–22% since 2023, driven mainly by increased labour rates and global supply-chain pressures on spare parts. Compressor and control-board costs saw the steepest increases due to semiconductor shortages that lingered through 2024.

Supply & demand drivers

A shortage of qualified appliance technicians has kept labour rates firm. Meanwhile, more households are choosing repair over replacement due to rising appliance prices and sustainability awareness — increasing demand for repair services.

2026–2027 outlook

Expect modest 3–5% year-on-year increases through 2027. Parts supply chains have stabilised, but labour costs continue rising. Smart-appliance diagnostics are beginning to reduce callout fees for some brands by enabling remote fault identification.

How to Get the Best Deal on Appliance Repair

Check warranty and insurance first

Before booking a private repair, check if your appliance is still under manufacturer warranty, extended warranty, or covered by a home-contents insurance policy. Some credit cards also include purchase protection that covers appliance faults within the first 1–2 years.

Get the model number ready

Having the brand, model number, and a clear description of the fault ready when you call allows the technician to pre-diagnose and bring the right parts. This can save a return visit and reduce your total cost by $50–$150.

Compare callout fee policies

Some repairers charge a flat callout fee regardless of whether you proceed with the repair. Others credit the callout fee toward the repair cost. A no-fix-no-fee policy protects you from paying for an unsuccessful diagnosis. Always confirm the policy before booking.

Ask about aftermarket parts

Genuine manufacturer parts can be 30–60% more expensive than quality aftermarket alternatives. For out-of-warranty appliances, aftermarket parts often perform identically. Ask the technician for both pricing options before committing to parts.

Use the 50% replacement rule

If the quoted repair cost exceeds 50% of the current replacement price, replacing is usually the better financial decision. Factor in the age of the appliance — a repair costing 40% of replacement value on a 10-year-old fridge is less worthwhile than the same ratio on a 3-year-old unit.

Book during standard hours

Unless your fault is genuinely urgent (e.g. leaking washing machine), avoid after-hours or weekend bookings. Standard weekday appointments are typically $30–$80 cheaper due to no after-hours surcharge. Most appliance faults can safely wait 1–2 days.

What's Included vs Extra

What a typical appliance repair quote covers — and what costs extra

Usually included

  • • Callout and on-site fault diagnosis
  • • Labour to complete the repair
  • • Testing the appliance after repair
  • • Basic cleanup of work area
  • • Short-term warranty on labour (typically 3–6 months)
  • • GST / VAT included in quoted price

Usually extra

  • • Replacement parts (can be 30–60% of total cost)
  • • After-hours or weekend surcharges ($30–$80)
  • • Return visit if parts need to be ordered
  • • Second-fault discovery during repair
  • • Gas disconnection/reconnection (gas appliances)
  • • Plumbing or electrical modifications

Best Time to Book Appliance Repairs

Summer

Peak demand for fridge and air-con repairs. Longer wait times and higher callout fees. Book early if you can.

Autumn

Good time for oven and dryer servicing ahead of winter. Technicians have more availability and shorter response times.

Winter

Dryer and oven repairs peak. Heater servicing also competes for technician time. Weekday bookings avoid the rush.

Spring

Quietest season for appliance repairs. Best availability and potentially better pricing. Ideal for preventive servicing.

Repair vs Replace — When Is It Worth Fixing?

Use age and repair cost to decide whether fixing your appliance makes financial sense

ApplianceAvg lifespanReplacement costRepair if…Replace if…
Washing machine8–12 years$600–$1,500Under 8 years old and repair < $350Over 10 years old or repair > 50% of new
Fridge / freezer10–15 years$800–$2,500Under 10 years old and repair < $500Over 12 years old, compressor failure, or repair > 40% of new
Dishwasher7–12 years$500–$1,200Under 7 years old and repair < $300Over 9 years old or pump/motor failure
Oven / cooktop12–15 years$600–$3,000Under 12 years old — elements and thermostats are cheap fixesControl board failure on older model or multiple faults
Dryer8–12 years$400–$1,200Under 8 years old and repair < $250Over 10 years old or drum bearing failure
Microwave5–8 years$100–$500Under 3 years and repair < $100Almost always — microwaves are cheap to replace

Energy savings matter too. A new fridge uses 30–50% less electricity than a model from 10+ years ago. If your old appliance is an energy hog, the running-cost savings can justify replacement even when the repair cost alone looks reasonable. Check the energy star rating difference before deciding.

DIY Troubleshooting — Try These Before Calling a Repairer

Simple checks that fix common faults without a callout fee

Washing machine won't start

Check the door is fully closed (the door interlock prevents the cycle from starting if slightly ajar). Check the power point is switched on and test it with another device. Reset the machine by turning it off at the wall for 60 seconds. Check the water taps are open — some machines won't start without water supply detected.

Dishwasher not draining

Remove the filter basket at the bottom of the tub and clean it — food debris is the most common cause of drainage issues. Check the drain hose for kinks. Run the garbage disposal if the dishwasher drains through it — a blocked disposal blocks the dishwasher. Pour boiling water down the drain connection to clear grease buildup.

Fridge not cold enough

Check the thermostat hasn't been accidentally adjusted. Clean the condenser coils at the back or underneath (dusty coils reduce cooling by 20–30%). Ensure there's 5–10cm clearance behind the fridge for airflow. Check the door seals — close a piece of paper in the door and try to pull it out. If it slides easily, the seal needs replacing.

Oven not heating evenly

Most ovens develop hot spots as they age. Check the door seal for gaps — a worn seal lets heat escape and causes uneven cooking. If a single element has failed (top or bottom), the other still works but food cooks unevenly. An oven thermometer ($10–$15) can confirm whether the temperature matches the dial setting.

Dryer taking too long

Clean the lint filter before every load — a blocked filter is the most common cause of slow drying and a fire hazard. Check the exhaust vent outside for blockages (birds nesting in vents is surprisingly common). Don't overload — dryers work best at two-thirds capacity. If the drum turns but there's no heat, the heating element has likely failed and needs professional replacement.

Noisy washing machine

Check the machine is level — use a spirit level and adjust the feet. An unbalanced load causes banging during the spin cycle. Check pockets for coins and small objects that can rattle inside the drum. Persistent grinding or squealing during spin usually indicates worn drum bearings — this is a professional repair.

Safety note: Never attempt to repair gas appliances, open the back of a microwave (high-voltage capacitor risk), or work on any appliance while it's connected to power. If a simple reset or clean doesn't fix the fault, call a qualified technician.

Warning Signs — When to Call a Repairer Immediately

Burning smell from any appliance

Turn off and unplug immediately. A burning smell indicates overheating wiring, a failing motor, or melting components. Do not use the appliance again until a technician has inspected it. This is a fire risk.

Water leaking from washing machine or dishwasher

A small puddle can become a major water damage event quickly. Check the door seal and hose connections first. If the leak is from underneath the machine, the pump or internal hose has likely failed. Turn off the water supply taps behind the machine.

Fridge running constantly without stopping

Fridges cycle on and off. If yours runs non-stop, the thermostat, compressor relay, or door seal has likely failed. Running costs increase dramatically and the compressor will burn out if left unaddressed.

Tripping the safety switch (RCD)

An appliance that trips the safety switch has an electrical fault — usually a short circuit or earth leakage. Do not keep resetting the switch and trying again. Unplug the appliance and book a repairer. Continuing to use it risks electric shock.

Unusual noises — grinding, banging, or clicking

New or worsening noises mean a component is failing. Grinding in a washing machine usually indicates worn bearings. Clicking in a fridge compressor suggests relay failure. Early repair is almost always cheaper than waiting for a complete breakdown.

Gas smell near a gas oven or cooktop

If you smell gas, do not use any switches or electrical devices. Open windows, leave the house, and call your gas supplier's emergency line. Gas leaks from appliance connections require a licensed gas fitter — not a general appliance repairer.

What to Expect During an Appliance Repair Visit

1. Booking and confirmation

You describe the fault and appliance model. The repairer provides an estimated callout fee and arrival window (usually a 2–4 hour block). Some companies text you when the technician is 30 minutes away.

2. On-site diagnosis

The technician inspects the appliance, runs diagnostic tests, and identifies the fault. This takes 15–30 minutes for most jobs. The callout/diagnostic fee covers this stage — typically $80–$150.

3. Quote and approval

You receive a quote for the repair including parts and labour. If the quote exceeds what you want to spend, you pay only the callout fee and can get a second opinion. Reputable technicians never start work without your approval.

4. Repair

If parts are in stock (common parts like pumps, elements, and thermostats usually are), the repair happens on the spot — typically 30–90 minutes. If parts need ordering, a second visit is scheduled (usually 3–7 business days).

5. Testing and warranty

The technician tests the appliance through a full cycle and confirms the fault is resolved. You receive an invoice with a warranty on the repair — typically 3–6 months on labour and 12 months on parts.

Appliance repair in Australia typically costs $80–$150 for a callout/diagnostic fee, plus $130–$500 for the repair depending on the appliance type and fault. Washing machine repairs average $250, fridge repairs $320, oven repairs $260, and dishwasher repairs $230. All prices include GST.

A common guideline is the 50% rule: if the repair cost exceeds 50% of the cost to replace the appliance, replacing is usually the better financial decision. However, for premium or high-capacity appliances, repairs at up to 70% of replacement value may still be worthwhile. Also consider the appliance age — repairs on appliances over 10 years old carry higher risk of further failures.

A callout or diagnostic fee ($80–$150) covers the technician’s time to visit, assess the fault, and provide a quote. Most repairers credit this fee toward the repair cost if you proceed. Some providers charge it regardless. Always confirm the callout fee policy before booking.

Most appliance repairs take 1–2 hours once the technician arrives. Simple jobs like element replacements or fridge seal changes can be done in under an hour. Complex faults requiring part ordering may require a return visit 1–5 days later once parts arrive.

Brand-authorised repairers use genuine parts and maintain manufacturer warranty coverage but charge a premium. Independent technicians are usually 20–40% cheaper and can use aftermarket parts. For appliances still under warranty, always use an authorised repairer. For out-of-warranty appliances, an experienced independent is usually a good choice.

Mechanical breakdown is generally not covered by standard home insurance, but extended warranty policies and appliance protection plans often cover repair costs. Some credit cards include purchase protection for appliances. Check your policy documents before booking a private repair.

Check Google reviews and look for technicians with specific experience in your appliance brand. Ask if they carry common parts in the van (avoids a return visit). Confirm whether the callout fee is credited toward the repair. Check they have public liability insurance and provide a written quote before starting work. Avoid repairers who quote a fixed price without seeing the appliance — the fault determines the cost.

Microwaves over 3 years old are almost never worth repairing — replacement is cheaper. Kettles, toasters, and small kitchen appliances are generally replace-only. Washing machines and dryers over 10 years old with major faults (motor, drum bearings, control board) are borderline. Fridges with compressor failure after 12+ years are usually a replace.

After-hours and weekend callout fees are typically $30–$80 higher than standard weekday rates. Some companies charge a flat emergency rate of $180–$250 for the callout alone. Unless you have an urgent fault (water leak, gas smell, fire risk), booking a standard weekday appointment saves significantly.

Most reputable appliance repairers offer 3–6 months warranty on labour and 12 months on parts. Brand-authorised service centres may offer longer warranties, especially on major components like compressors (up to 5 years). Always ask about warranty terms before approving the repair and keep your receipt.

Some independent repairers allow customer-supplied parts, but most prefer to source their own to ensure compatibility and warranty coverage. If you supply your own parts, the technician typically won't warranty the repair. For simple parts like fridge seals, oven elements, or washing machine filters, buying your own is straightforward. For complex parts like control boards or compressors, let the technician source them.

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I'm looking for a quote for Appliance Repair in [your suburb].

I've seen typical prices around $100–$350 — please let me know if your quote is in that range.

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How We Get These Prices

Prices aggregated from 180+ verified quotes and published rate cards from appliance repair companies across Australia, the UK, USA, Canada, and New Zealand. Our active sample covers 320 collected data points from 85 providers in 40 cities, with job-level pricing for washing machines, fridges, ovens, dishwashers, dryers, microwaves, and rangehoods.

Methodology: We collected the current pricing set between 15 January 2026 and 18 March 2026. Every rate is checked against published repair company tariffs, manufacturer service network pricing, and customer invoice submissions. We separate callout fees from total repair costs and distinguish between parts-included and labour-only quotes so the price ranges remain comparable.

Disclaimer: These prices are indicative, not guaranteed quotes. Actual appliance repair costs depend on the specific fault, parts required, appliance age and brand, access difficulty, and whether after-hours attendance is needed. Always get a written quote before authorising repair work.