Appliance repair glossary

Diagnostic fee / service call fee — the charge for coming out and identifying the fault, typically $35–$120 and commonly credited toward the repair if you proceed. Trip or mileage charge — an additional fee outside a company's service area, sometimes around $2 per mile.

Sealed system — the closed refrigerant circuit in a refrigerator: compressor, condenser, evaporator and the lines between them. It requires certified handling and costs $800–$1,200 to repair. This is never a DIY item. Compressor — the pump that drives that circuit, $500–$1,000 to replace.

Control board — the electronics that run the appliance, $500–$1,000 on a refrigerator and $200–$600 on an oven. Heating element — the resistance coil that makes heat, $150–$250 on a dryer and $150–$400 on an oven. Igniter — the component that lights a gas oven, $150–$350.

OEM — Original Equipment Manufacturer, meaning a part made by or for the appliance brand. Aftermarket — a part from a third party, often cheaper, with varying fit and warranty. Gasket — the flexible door seal, $60–$100 on a refrigerator and $50–$150 on a dishwasher. Data plate — the label carrying model and serial number, which is the key to parts, warranty and age.

How to choose

Learn 'sealed system' before you need it

It's the $800–$1,200 phrase that usually means it's time to price a replacement.

Ask OEM or aftermarket every time

Both can be right. Not knowing which you bought never is.

Distinguish diagnostic fee from trip charge

They're separate line items and both should be disclosed before booking.

Find your data plate now

Model and serial number drive parts, warranty status and age. Photograph it today.

Get the part name, not the symptom, on the invoice

'Repaired refrigerator' is not a record. 'Replaced condenser fan motor, part number X' is.