Appliance repair checklists

Before you call. Model and serial number photographed. Purchase date or manufacture date. Exact error code. A description of when the fault happens. Video of any noise. Confirmation that you've checked filters, vents, hoses and power. Whether the appliance is still under any manufacturer or retailer warranty.

On the phone. Ask the diagnostic fee and whether it's credited to the repair. Ask the hourly labor rate — expect $50–$100 for dryers and dishwashers, $50–$150 for washers, $100–$250 for refrigerators. Ask about trip or mileage charges, which can run around $2 per mile outside a service area. Ask whether they service your brand and whether they stock or can get parts.

Before approving work. Get the failed part named and the part number. Get the total, split into parts and labor. Ask whether the part is OEM or aftermarket. Ask what warranty covers the part and the labor, and for how long. Then check the total against half the price of a comparable replacement.

Safety checklist. Unplug before opening anything. Never attempt gas connection work — gas should only be turned back on by a professional. Never open a sealed refrigerant system. Turn off the water supply before working on a dishwasher or washer. If you smell gas, leave the house first and call from outside.

How to choose

Have the model number before you dial

It's the difference between one visit and two, and two visits is often two service fees.

Confirm the diagnostic fee policy on the phone

$35–$120 credited toward the repair is normal. $35–$120 on top of it should be disclosed before the truck rolls.

Never approve a repair without a named part

'It needs a board' with no part number is not something you can price-check or get a second opinion on.

Ask for the labor warranty term

If the same part fails in three months, you want to know now what that costs you.

Check warranty status before paying for anything

Manufacturer or retailer coverage can make the whole conversation unnecessary.