Washing machines are essential appliances in UK homes, and when they fail, repair costs can vary widely. Understanding the average cost helps homeowners budget effectively and choose a reliable engineer.
Typical Washing Machine Repair Costs
The average cost to fix a washing machine ranges from £70 to £200. Minor issues such as blocked filters, loose hoses, or drainage problems often fall at the lower end of the range. More complex faults, including motor failure, drum issues, or electronic control faults, can increase the cost significantly.
Call-out fees usually range from £40 to £80, covering the engineer’s travel and initial inspection. Labour is typically charged separately at £45–£90 per hour, depending on location and engineer experience.
Factors Affecting Repair Costs
- Fault complexity: Simple repairs are cheaper than complex motor or electrical issues.
- Machine age: Older models may require hard-to-source parts, increasing costs.
- Parts quality: Genuine parts cost more but offer longer reliability.
- Labour: Built-in or top-loading machines may require more work to access components.
- Location: Urban areas often have higher labour rates than smaller towns.
Common Washing Machine Repairs and Costs
- Not spinning: £70–£180
- Not draining: £80–£160
- Leaking water: £70–£150
- Control panel or electronic fault: £100–£220
- Noisy operation: £60–£140
Getting Accurate Quotes
To get the most accurate quote, provide the engineer with:
- Washing machine brand and model
- Detailed description of the fault, including error codes if available
- Confirmation of what is included in the call-out fee
- Clear breakdown of parts and labour costs
Comparing multiple quotes helps ensure fair pricing. Avoid extremely low quotes, which may use substandard parts or lack warranty coverage.
Repair vs Replacement
If the repair cost approaches 50% or more of a new washing machine’s price, replacement may be more cost-effective, especially for older models. Minor faults on newer machines are usually worth repairing.
For additional guidance on costs, see our posts on washing machine call-out fees and why repair quotes vary.
Conclusion
The average cost to fix a washing machine in the UK ranges from £70 to £200, depending on the fault, parts, and labour. Providing detailed information and requesting itemised quotes ensures fair pricing and professional service.