Washing machines are essential to most households, so when they break down it can cause huge issues at home. But before you rush to replace your washing machine, consider whether you can get it repaired. 

Washing machine repair is usually cheaper than buying a whole new machine, and you’ll be doing your bit for the environment by keeping the same appliance for longer. So how much does it cost? And how do you know whether to repair or replace it? We explain everything in this guide.

How much does it cost to repair a washing machine?

The cost to repair a washing machine can vary significantly depending on the nature of the fault, the brand of the machine, and the rates of the appliance repair specialist. On average, you might expect to pay between £50 and £150 for common repairs. However, more complex issues can push the cost upwards of £200.

These prices are averages taken from appliance repair specialists across the country. Where you live has a big impact on how much you’ll pay for a washing machine repair. 

Take a look at our appliance repair specialist rates table and find your nearest town or city to get a more accurate estimate for a repair in your area.

Factors affecting the cost of a washing machine repair

Several elements influence the overall cost of repairing your washing machine, including:

• Type of fault: Minor issues like replacing a door seal will cost less than repairing a circuit board or drum bearing.
• Brand of the machine: Premium brands like Miele or Bosch often have higher repair costs due to more expensive parts.
• Machine model: Older models or less common machines may require harder-to-find or specialised parts, increasing repair expenses.
• Labour costs: Appliance repair specialist rates vary based on experience and location, with larger cities generally commanding higher fees.
• Warranty status: If your machine is still under warranty, some repairs may be covered, significantly reducing costs.

Make sure you check whether your washing machine is still covered under warranty before you go ahead and have it repaired. You may invalidate any time left on your warranty if you don’t go through the manufacturer’s process to get it repaired.

Common washing machine faults

Some faults are more common than others, and understanding them can help diagnose the problem and estimate the repair costs. Here are some of the most common washing machine faults:

Noisy spin cycle

A worn or damaged drum bearing can cause excessive noise during the spin cycle. Replacing drum bearings is one of the more costly repairs, often ranging from £150 to £250 due to the amount of work involved.

The washing machine doesn’t spin properly or at all

The clutch engages the washer’s drive system to allow the drum to spin. If the clutch is faulty, the drum might not spin properly. Repairing or replacing the clutch can cost between £80 and £150.

The washing machine doesn’t drain

The pump is responsible for draining the water from the drum. A faulty pump can prevent your washing machine from emptying water properly, and replacing it typically costs around £75 to £125.

Laundry detergent doesn’t dissolve or clothes don’t come out clean

The heating element heats the water for your wash cycles. If your clothes aren’t getting clean, or you notice detergent residue on them, a faulty heating element might be the issue. Replacing the heating element usually costs between £60 and £100.

The washing machine stops working completely or intermittently

The circuit board acts as the brain of your washing machine, controlling all of its functions. If this component fails, the machine may stop working altogether or behave erratically. 

Replacing a circuit board is a complex and costly repair, typically ranging from £150 to £300, depending on the machine’s brand and model. If the circuit board needs replacing, it might be worth considering whether it’s worth repairing the machine.

What to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace your washing machine

Repairing your washing machine is better for the environment as you’re keeping your machine in use for longer, but there does come a time when you need to consider whether it’s more economical to replace your washing machine. Here are some pointers to help you decide:

1. Age of the machine: If the machine is nearing the end of its expected lifespan (10–13 years), replacement might be more sensible.
2. Cost of repair vs. replacement: As a rule of thumb, if repair costs exceed 50% of the price of a new machine, it generally means that replacement is a better investment.
3. Energy efficiency: Newer washing machines often come with improved energy and water efficiency, potentially saving you money in the long term.
4. Frequency of breakdowns: If repairs are becoming frequent, ongoing costs may outweigh the expense of purchasing a new, more reliable appliance.

By carefully weighing these factors, you can make a decision that best suits your budget and household needs.

How long do washing machines last?

The average lifespan of a washing machine is about 10 to 13 years. This can vary based on the brand, model, and how frequently the machine is used. 

Regular maintenance and cleaning can help extend the lifespan of your washing machine. There are many cleaners you can run through your machine on a hot cycle every month to prevent detergent and limescale build-up.

Is it worth getting a washing machine repaired?

Deciding whether to repair or replace your washing machine often depends on the cost of the repair relative to the value of the machine. If the repair cost is less than half the price of a new machine, it's generally worth repairing. However, if your machine is old and the repair costs are high, investing in a new machine might be more cost-effective in the long run.

You should also consider your impact on the environment. It’s more environmentally friendly to keep your machine for as long as possible, so if it’s a relatively new washing machine you may think that it’s worth repairing even if the costs are slightly more than 50% of the price of a new one.

Can you repair a washing machine yourself?

You can do some minor repairs to your washing machine or troubleshoot problems yourself if you have the right tools and instructions, but for more complex issues we’d recommend leaving them to a specialist. 

Here are some of the minor repairs or troubleshooting you could do yourself:

• Rebalance your laundry: If your laundry seems to be sitting more heavily on one side of the machine, consider removing some of it or making it sit more equally in the drum.
• Reset your machine: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for resetting the washing machine if it is having problems functioning.
• Clean out the drawer: The washing machine drawer can get clogged with detergent and fabric softener. Clean it out regularly to prevent issues.
• Check for clogs: Check the hose to make sure it’s not blocked or has any kinks.
• Check the plug: Check whether the machine is plugged in or change the fuse.

For anything more complicated than this, we’d recommend calling an appliance repair specialist. If you try to repair your washing machine yourself, you could cause further damage or void your warranty.

If you need someone to repair your washing machine, we can help. Post your job on HaMuch now and we’ll put you in touch with reliable appliance repair specialists in your area.

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