Appliance repair cost: how to compare your options
The useful number is the complete written quote for your appliance—not a generic national price range.
Start with a diagnosis
Write down the model number, approximate age, symptoms, and any error code. Ask the repair business whether the diagnostic fee is credited toward an approved repair. A symptom such as “not cooling” can have several causes, so a parts price alone is not a repair estimate.
Ask for the full repair price
- Diagnosis or service-call charge, including a charge if you decline repair.
- Parts, labor, tax, and any repeat-visit or travel charge.
- Whether the quote can change after disassembly and who approves extra work.
- Parts availability, estimated completion date, and repair warranty.
- For refrigeration work, whether the quote includes the required sealed-system work and refrigerant handling.
Check warranty coverage before paying
Locate your purchase receipt and the warranty for the exact model. Manufacturer coverage, an extended plan, or retailer coverage may apply differently to parts and labor. Get the coverage decision from the warranty provider. APN does not determine warranty eligibility.
Compare repair with the total replacement cost
| Repair | Replacement |
|---|---|
| Diagnosis, parts, labor, and tax | Appliance, tax, delivery, and installation |
| Expected reliability after the repair | Fit, hookups, and changes needed in the space |
| Repair warranty and parts availability | Old-appliance removal and new warranty terms |
There is no single percentage rule that works for every appliance. A modest repair on a sound unit can make sense; repeated failures, unavailable parts, or a major repair may favor replacement. Consider downtime and your budget as well as the quoted price.
If you decide to remove the appliance
Ask the retailer about haul-away before your delivery date. You can also request free pickup availability through APN. Acceptance depends on an independent partner, and the request does not book an appointment.
Wait until your collector confirms the appointment and preparation instructions. Arrange qualified help for gas, hardwired electrical, or plumbing disconnection. Do not cut refrigerant lines or dismantle a sealed cooling system. Keep stored appliances secured away from children.
For an LG refrigerator, see our compressor repair decision guide.