Appliance Repair

Trade: Electrician

⭐ Introduction

Appliance repair by an electrician is about fixing or servicing the electrical components of your household appliances. This might include ovens, cookers, washing machines, dishwashers, or even lighting systems built into appliances. It’s needed when an appliance doesn’t work properly—perhaps it won’t start, makes unusual noises, trips the fuse, or just doesn’t perform as expected.

Calling in a qualified electrician ensures the repair is safe, effective, and complies with UK safety standards, especially where electrical safety and wiring are concerned. Attempting repairs without the right skills can be dangerous and may invalidate insurance or warranties.

🔧 What the job involves

When an electrician repairs an appliance, the process typically includes:

Diagnosing the fault by inspecting the appliance and its electrical components.
Testing circuits, plugs, sockets, fuses, wiring, and any electrical controls.
Replacing or repairing faulty parts such as switches, wiring, motors, or control panels.
Ensuring all repairs meet current electrical safety standards.
Testing the appliance after repair to confirm it is working properly and safely.
Sometimes advising whether the appliance is worth repairing or if replacement is a better option.

Electricians will work carefully to avoid causing damage to your appliance and home wiring and will follow manufacturer instructions and any relevant UK safety regulations.

📝 Step-by-step from booking to completion

Initial enquiry: Contact a local, qualified electrician with experience in appliance repairs. Explain the problem clearly.
Survey and diagnosis: The electrician visits your home to assess the appliance and check the fault. This may include initial testing and inspection.
Quote provided: Based on the diagnosis, you’ll receive a clear quote detailing labour, parts, and any other costs.
Appointment agreed: Once you accept the quote, a repair date is booked.
Repair day: The electrician carries out the repair, working safely and bringing any necessary parts or ordering them quickly.
Testing and quality check: After repair, the appliance will be tested to ensure it’s functioning and safe.
Wrap-up: The electrician cleans up, removes any waste, and provides relevant certification or paperwork if needed (especially for certain fixed wiring or cooker circuit repairs).
Payment and warranty: You settle the payment, and details of any guarantees or aftercare advice will be given.

💷 Main costs to expect

Labour: Typically charged hourly, labour might cost between £40–£70 per hour depending on the electrician’s experience and area.
Parts: Replacement components (e.g., switches, wiring, fuses, motors) vary in price from a few pounds up to £150 or more for complex parts.
Call-out fee: Some electricians charge a fixed fee just to visit your home, which can be £30–£60.
Disposal: Removal and eco-friendly disposal of old parts or appliances may incur a small fee.
Certification: If your appliance repair involves any fixed electrical installation (like cooker circuits), Part P certification or Electrical Installation Condition Reporting may be required, costing around £50–£150.

For example:

Labour (2 hours): £100
Parts (fuse and wiring): £25
Call-out fee: £40
Certification (Part P): £75
Total: approx. £240 (plus VAT if applicable)

📊 What affects the price

Complexity of the fault—simple fuses vs. complex electronic controls.
Accessibility of the appliance—e.g., tucked behind cupboards or large, fixed appliances.
Whether parts need ordering or are on the van immediately.
Age and model of the appliance—older or specialist items may be more costly to repair.
Need for certification or testing under Part P regulations.
Location of property – prices vary across the UK, more expensive in London and South East.
Urgency and availability—emergency or same-day call-outs often cost more.
Any required remedial electrical work (e.g., rewiring part of the cooker circuit).

⏱ How long does it take?

A straightforward appliance repair can typically take between 1 to 3 hours, depending on the fault and part availability:

Simple fix: Replacing a fuse, plug, or socket—30 minutes to 1 hour.
Moderate repair: Replacing motors or electrical controls—1 to 2 hours.
Complex fault diagnosis and repair: When electronic components or wiring circuits are involved—2 to 4 hours or more.

If parts need ordering, this extends the total repair time by several days.

🏠 Can you DIY it?

DIY appliance repairs involving electrical parts are generally not recommended unless you have electrical experience and understand UK safety regulations. Risks include electric shock, fire, or causing further damage.

Key points:

Repairs on plug-in appliances using simple parts like plugs or fuses can be done carefully by confident DIYers.
Fixed wiring or cooker circuit repairs require a qualified electrician registered under Part P Building Regulations.
Appliances connected to the main electrical system (e.g., built-in ovens) must meet safety rules to protect you and your home.
Incorrect repairs may invalidate warranties and insurance.

When in doubt, it’s safer and more cost-effective to hire a Gas Safe or Part P registered electrician.

💰 Typical UK price range

Most appliance electrical repairs range from around £100 to £300, including parts and labour. Complex repairs or certification requirements can push prices higher. Always ask if prices include VAT (usually 20%) and get a clear, written quote before work starts.

✅ Handy tips before you start

Clearly check and note the symptoms and any recent changes or faults in the appliance.
Move or clear the area around the appliance so the electrician can work safely.
Ensure you have easy access to the appliance’s plug or isolator switch.
Keep any paperwork, manuals, and previous repair or service receipts handy.
Ask about warranty on repairs and parts—most electricians offer a minimum 6 to 12 months guarantee.
If certification is needed (e.g., for cooker circuits), keep those documents safe for your records or future house sales.
Regular servicing of appliances can help prevent costly repairs.

Taking these steps can make the process smoother, quicker, and more transparent for both you and your electrician.