Of course, the type of the appliance being repaired will dictate the cost. Obviously, fixing a toaster is much less expensive than fixing a stove. However, even for small appliances, fixing it can still cost less (and be less hassle!) than flat out replacing it. Most small appliances like microwaves, blenders and toasters should last around 10 years or more - so, if you're within that time frame, consider fixing instead of replacing. It is a balancing act though - if you've spent $10 on a toaster, replacing it will probably be more cost effective than hiring someone to repair it.
Gas versus electric
Whether or not the appliance is gas or electric will also affect your bottom line cost. Gas appliances such as water heaters, stoves, fireplaces and even refrigerators, while less expensive to run in most cases, sometimes are more expensive to fix. Repairing gas appliances carry a bit more risk with them as well because if they are not done properly, you could have issues with carbon monoxide or fire. Continue Reading
If your appliance is easy to reach, it will be normally be a less expensive fix than if it is a hard to reach item. Also, if the wiring to that appliance is easy to find and get to, it will normally be less of a labor cost. Of course, these are not necessarily things within your control, but you should be aware that the accessibility of your appliance, as well as whether or not it's freestanding or built-in, will have an effect on cost.
Parts
Depending on the age and type of appliance, finding parts may be a task. Parts for rarer appliances, like gas refrigerators, might be more difficult to find and more expensive to purchase. Talk to your technician about possibly using used appliance parts to save money. In many instances, this option is just as good as purchasing new.
