Appliance repair checklists
Before you call, gather the model and serial number, the exact error code, the appliance's age, and photos or video of the fault. When you call, confirm the diagnostic fee - typically $35-$120 - and whether it is credited toward the repair. Before approving any work, get the failed part named in writing and compare the quote to half the cost of a replacement.
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.
Choosing appliance repair checklists
The judgement calls that decide the bill, before anyone quotes you.
- 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.
All appliance repair checklists
Appliance Repair Pre-Project Checklist
Appliance Repair Hiring Checklist
Appliance Repair Maintenance Checklist
Appliance Repair Safety Checklist
Where these figures come from
Sources last checked
- Fixr - Refrigerator Repair Cost (labor, diagnostic fee) · retrieved 2026-07-26
- Fixr - Washing Machine Repair Cost (diagnostic fee, labor) · retrieved 2026-07-26
- Fixr - Dishwasher Repair Cost (service call and diagnostic fees) · retrieved 2026-07-26
- Fixr - Oven Repair Cost (mileage charge, gas safety) · retrieved 2026-07-26
- Fixr - Dryer Repair Cost · retrieved 2026-07-26
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