TV Screen Repair
Trade: Electrician
β Introduction
A TV screen repair is a job to fix damaged or faulty television screens, often due to cracks, dead pixels, power faults, or display issues. This service is needed when your TV picture quality deteriorates, there are visible cracks, or the screen fails to switch on properly. Rather than replacing the entire TV, repairing the screen may be a more cost-effective and environmentally friendly option.
In many cases, especially with modern flat-screen TVs such as LCD or OLED models, a screen repair requires specialist knowledge. Electrical safety is important when handling electronic devices connected to mains power, so hiring a qualified electrician or TV repair technician is recommended.
π§ What the job involves
Screen repair typically means diagnosing the problem, sourcing the correct replacement parts (usually the LCD panel or digitizer), and carefully dismantling and reassembling the TV. Common faults include:
- Cracked or shattered screen glass
- Dead or stuck pixels causing black or coloured spots
- Flickering or distorted images
- Power supply or internal electronics faults affecting the screen
The repair process usually involves:
- Unplugging the TV and disconnecting other devices
- Opening the TV casing without damaging internal components or cables
- Removing the damaged screen and safely disposing of it
- Installing the new screen or components
- Testing the TV to ensure the display is restored and safe to use
Given the thin and fragile nature of TV screens and internal parts, the job requires steady hands and precise tools.
π Step-by-step from booking to completion
- Initial enquiry β Contact a reputable electrician or TV repair specialist to discuss the issue over the phone or by email.
- Site survey/diagnosis β The tradesperson visits your home to inspect the TV, assess damage, and advise on repair feasibility.
- Quotation provided β You receive a written quote covering labour, parts, and any additional services.
- Appointment booked β Agree a convenient date and time for the repair.
- Work carried out β The electrician arrives, safely disconnects the TV, repairs or replaces the screen, and tests functionality.
- Completion & payment β The job is completed to your satisfaction, paperwork (invoice/warranty) is left with you, and payment is made.
- Aftercare advice β The tradesperson offers guidance on maintenance or when to book a future service if needed.
π· Main costs to expect
- Labour β Typically charged by the hour, including diagnostics, dismantling, repair, and reassembly. Expect from Β£40 to Β£80 per hour.
- Replacement screen parts β Main cost, varies depending on screen size and type. Can range from Β£50 (small screens) to over Β£300 (large/4K OLEDs).
- Additional components β Sometimes other internal electronics like ribbon cables or backlights need replacing.
- Disposal β Proper disposal of old electronic parts may incur a small fee, usually under Β£20.
- Certification β While screen repairs donβt normally require formal certification, a professional may provide a safety check certificate for your peace of mind.
Example: Labour Β£60 + replacement screen Β£120 + disposal Β£15 = Β£195 total (excluding VAT).
π What affects the price
- TV size and technology β Larger and newer screens cost more to repair.
- Access difficulty β Built-in TVs or wall-mounted sets take longer to dismantle.
- Severity and type of damage β Cracks vs electrical faults affect complexity.
- Availability of parts β Rare or discontinued screens may cost more or be hard to source.
- Additional repairs required β Sometimes more than just the screen needs fixing.
- Location β Urban areas may have higher rates; remote locations may add travel fees.
- Urgency/timeline β Same-day or emergency repairs often cost extra.
β± How long does it take?
- Basic screen replacement β Usually 1 to 3 hours for standard flat-screen TVs.
- Complex repairs or multiple faults β Up to half a day or longer, especially if parts need ordering.
- Additional work β Wall bracket removal/reinstallation or integrating smart TV components can add more time.
π Can you DIY it?
Screen repair is not generally recommended as a DIY job for most homeowners because:
- Screens and internal components are fragile and easily damaged.
- Disassembly requires specialist tools and knowledge.
- Electrical safety must be considered β always unplug and avoid exposing circuits.
- Incorrect repairs risk voiding any manufacturer warranty.
- Recycling and disposal of electronic materials must comply with WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) regulations.
If you are confident and experienced with electronics repair, you might attempt minor fixes (cleaning connections, resetting), but for screen replacement, professional help is advisable.
π° Typical UK price range
Expect to pay approximately Β£150 to Β£500 for a TV screen repair, depending on the screen size, technology, and complexity. This estimate usually includes parts and labour but excludes VAT at 20% which applies if the repair service is VAT registered.
Costs may be higher for premium TVs or urgent call-outs, so always get a detailed quote before proceeding.
β Handy tips before you start
- Prepare the area β Clear the room around the TV for easy access and protect surfaces.
- Gather model details β Note your TV brand, model number, and serial number to help source the correct parts.
- Backup data β Disconnect memory sticks or streaming devices and save any content.
- Check your warranty β Repairs may be covered by manufacturer warranty or extended plans.
- Keep paperwork β Retain quotes, receipts, and any certificates given by the tradesperson.
- Ask about aftercare β Find out how long the repair is guaranteed and what maintenance is recommended.
- Recycle old parts responsibly β Ensure your tradesperson disposes of electronic waste following proper WEEE guidelines.
Seeking professional help from a qualified electrician or experienced TV repair technician ensures a safer, more reliable repair and better long-term value.