Repair Costs: What You’ll Actually Pay to Fix Common Appliances

When an appliance stops working, the first thing most people ask is, “How much will it cost?” The answer isn’t one‑size‑fits‑all, but you can get a good idea by looking at the parts that usually break and the labour involved. Below we break down the average price range for the most common repairs you’ll see around a typical Taunton home.

Top Appliances and Their Typical Repair Bills

Washing machines – The drum or tub assembly is the priciest part. Replacing it can run £200‑£400 in parts plus £80‑£120 for labour. If the motor fails, expect £150‑£250 for the motor itself and another £80‑£110 to fit it. Smaller fixes like a faulty door latch or a broken belt are usually under £100.

Boilers – A simple thermostat swap costs about £70‑£120, while a heat exchanger replacement can push £400‑£600. If you’re dealing with a leak in the pressure pipe, the repair usually falls between £120‑£250. Remember, safety comes first: a leaking boiler can cause carbon monoxide risks.

Extractors and ventilation fans – Most fan issues are electrical. Replacing a motor or capacitor typically costs £80‑£150, including labour. If the wiring is the problem, expect a £60‑£110 electrician’s fee plus the cost of any new cable.

Fridges – The compressor is the big ticket item. A new compressor plus installation runs £300‑£500. Evaporator fan or thermostat swaps are much cheaper, usually £80‑£150 total.

Water heaters – Sediment build‑up is a common cause of loss of hot water. A professional flush is about £70‑£100. Replacing a heating element or thermostat ranges £120‑£200. If the tank itself is corroded, a full replacement can be £500‑£800.

Fix or Replace? Quick Decision‑Making Tips

Before you hand over cash, run a quick mental checklist. If the repair cost is more than half the price of a new unit, it’s often smarter to replace. For example, swapping a washing‑machine drum for £250 when a new mid‑range model costs £500–£600 usually means you’ll end up spending more in the long run.

Age matters too. Appliances older than 10‑12 years are likely to need more frequent fixes. If your fridge is 12 years old and you just paid £300 for a compressor, a new fridge with a modern energy rating could save you money on electricity bills.

Energy efficiency is another factor. Newer models use less power, so even if the upfront cost is higher, you’ll see lower utility bills. Use a simple rule: add up the repair cost plus an estimated five years of electricity savings. If the total is lower than buying a new unit, go ahead with the fix.

Lastly, consider warranty coverage. Some repairs are covered under a manufacturer’s warranty or a service plan you may have forgotten about. Always ask the technician to check before you sign off on a quote.

Knowing the typical price ranges and having a quick decision guide can turn a stressful breakdown into a manageable budget choice. If you’re ever unsure, give Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions a call – we’ll give you a clear, upfront quote and help you decide whether fixing or replacing makes the most sense for your home.