Any modern appliance has a healthy lifespan of 10-15 years. Many appliances come with shorter appliance warranty plans and they may break down at least once in their lifetime. It’s often cheaper to repair your appliance instead of buying a new one.
Depending on the type of appliance, it may cost you anywhere between $100 to $1,500 to fix it. You may also have to pay extra for replacing any broken parts in addition to paying hourly labour costs. On average it may cost you $307 and $332 to fix your washer and dryer, respectively. A broken refrigerator might cost you a maximum of $1,500 but you will have to factor in the expensive part replacement in the budget as well. When it comes to your stove and oven, the repair costs will fluctuate depending on whether they’re gas or electric.
This cost guide is based on 220 honest and verified appliance repair reviews submitted by Toronto homeowners on HomeStars. Read on to learn more about the estimated costs of having your appliance repaired, or click here to get in touch with pros in your area for a custom quote.
This cost guide will also help you identify the problem with your appliance and how to hire a pro on HomeStars without any hassle.
Cost Guide to Repair Washer and Dryer in Toronto
The following costs are based on verified reviews reported by 111 Toronto based homeowners:
| Appliance | Average Cost* | Lowest Reported* | Highest Reported* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Washer | $307 | $100 | $830 |
| Dryer | $332 | $100 | $900 |
Costs as of September 2020*
Common Washer Issues & Solutions:
Failing to Drain
- There can be two types of drain problems in your washer: water not draining out of the machine or water not flowing properly through the drain pipes.
These problems can be caused by multiple reasons. There can be a clog in your drain tube, obstruction in the water pump filter or impellers, clog in the drain, faulty lid switch, or even a loose or broken drive belt. By cleaning or replacing the drain pump, you may be able to fix your washer and improve its performance.
Wobbling
- The main reason behind your wobbling washing machine is an imbalance in your laundry or your machine. Many front load washing machines face the wobbling issue at least once in their life. You have to check multiple things such as the placement of your washing machine, its vibration pads, and the sturdiness of your floor. If all this checks out, then get a quote from a washing machine repair professional for help to provide a quick fix.
Leaking
- A washer leak from the bottom is very common and can be caused by a leaking hose. This is not an easy fix and will require the help of at least one appliance repair professional. Loose hose connections or holes in the pipes can lead to leaking and may also result in excessive damage in your laundry room. Securing the hose professionally and fixing the holes will stop the leaks and save your machine and floor.
Underfilling
- Kinked hoses can lead to problems with underfilling your machine. The damaged water control or inlet valve of your washer might be stopping a consistent water supply into your washer. Checking your hoses and taps can fix the underfilling.
Standing Water
- Standing water around your washer could be the result of a clogged drain. Check for and remove any blockages from the drain to avoid major plumbing issues. If that doesn’t fix the problem, a washer repair pro can take a look.
Mechanical Failures
- Mechanical problems in the washer are usually related to the agitator, pump and belts. Many times a quick fix won’t solve the problems and you will have to hire an appliance repair professional to fix any mechanical failures that have caused your washer to stop working.
Drive Belts
- Worn, broken or slipping drive belts may also create problems. Check belts before trying to pull them out. If you see any cracks or slack, there is something wrong. A belt that moves more than ¼ inch needs repair or replacement.
Common Dryer Issues & Solutions:
Gas Dryer Problems
- Though gas dryers cost more than electric dryers, they consume less power in usage. Just like any other machine, they need to get repaired now and then. Repairing the ignition coils, checking flame sensors, gas valves and thermal fuses periodically can keep the gas dryer in working order.
Heat Issues
- Overheating dryers or no heat at all can be caused by blocked ventilation, an overloaded machine or clogged lint screens. There can also be mechanical problems like a bad thermostat, a bad timer, bad fuses, temperature switches, or heating coils. Many of these things will need replacement to fix the heating issue.
Drum Issues
- If your dryer is making strange noises or vibrating uncontrollably, it is likely caused by a broken belt; otherwise, it’s probably your roller, motor or idler pulley that needs to be replaced.
Faulty Dryer
- Lack of power or a bad timer, broken thermostat, terminal block or start switch, issues with heating elements can result in a faulty dryer. Checking each part of the dryer and replacing the broken ones can solve the problem.
Cost Guide to Repair Refrigerator in Toronto
The following costs are based on verified reviews reported by 39 Toronto based homeowners:
| Appliance | Average Cost* | Lowest Reported* | Highest Reported* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | $365 | $100 | $1,500 |
Costs as of September 2020*
A broken refrigerator can ruin your food, leave a strong stench in your house and ruin your chances of maintaining a diet plan. When your refrigerator breaks down, ideally, you want it fixed on the same day. You can book an appointment with a verified service pro to get it fixed sooner rather than later. Before you hire an appliance repair pro to solve the issue, make sure a repair is necessary. Consider these 3 factors to help you decide if you need a repair or if you should replace your unit.
Age of the Refrigerator
- If your refrigerator is less than 15 years old, then you can go ahead and repair it. If it’s older, we recommend you replace it. It’s very difficult and often expensive to find a replacement part for older refrigerators and there is no guarantee involved considering the age of the appliance.
Efficiency
- If your refrigerator is consuming excessive electricity increasing your monthly utility bill, then consider replacing it with an energy-efficient refrigerator.
Type of Refrigerator
Some types and brands of refrigerators are expensive to repair. When you contact a refrigerator repair pro, inform them which type of appliance you have to get a better quote. The most common type of refrigerator sets are:
- Top freezer refrigerator
- Side-by-side refrigerator
- Bottom freezer refrigerator
- French door refrigerator
- Counter-depth refrigerator
- Mini fridge and freezer
Common Refrigerator Issues & Solutions:
Compressor Issues
- If your food isn’t staying cold, or if you’re hearing buzzing or humming noises coming from your fridge, then it’s a compressor issue. This can be caused by a broken compressor fan and overloading compressor which can also lead to overheating, building up bad gas and multiple cooling problems. You will need a professional to look at the capacitor and replace the compressor fan for you.
Weird Noises
- The biggest telltale of a broken fridge and freezer is when they start making weird noises. These noises can be caused by a variety of problems with your appliance.
- A rattling sound can be caused by the drip pan behind the kick plate under your fridge, and the pan may be rattling when water hits. If there’s too much liquid you should empty it immediately. Also, check the supports to make sure they aren’t damaged.
- When the water flows into the icemaker, it starts making crackling noises. It’s quite normal, but have it checked if it gets louder than usual.
- A defroster usually makes noises like snapping, popping and crackling. But as it gets older, it gets equally noisy. Make sure you replace it before it does major damage.
- If the evaporator fan motor in your freezer starts making strange noises, push the door switch to see if that turns it off. This usually means you will need to replace the motor.
Cost Guide to Repair Stove and Oven in Toronto
The following stove and oven costs are based on verified reviews reported by 70 Toronto based homeowners:
| Appliance | Average Cost* | Lowest Reported* | Highest Reported* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stove | $347 | $100 | $1,350 |
| Oven | $376 | $120 | $975 |
Costs as of September 2020*
Common Stove and Oven Issues & Solutions:
Broken Burner
- The burner on your stovetop can break if it’s very old, rusty or if you are putting excessive weight on it. The only way to fix it is by replacing it.
Excessive Heating Burner
- If you have an electric cooktop, then your most common problem will be overheating coils. It’s not something of immediate concern but keeping an eye on it is the safest way to deal with it. If the coil looks red hot even after turning the knob to low, you should quickly turn it off and get professional help to fix it. The issue is related to the infinite switch and replacing it can fix the problem.
Indicator Light
- Faulty indicator lights can be hazardous. To avoid any injury, we recommend you replace the switches and bulbs as required.
Stuck Oven Door
- Door latch, oven thermostat, and/or misalignment are a few reasons why your oven door is not opening after self-cleaning. You will need a professional to come and repair it.
The oven isn’t Working Properly
- In a gas model oven, the pilot flame may not be correctly communicating with the thermocouple which leads to problems with the baking igniter or valve. You will have to replace the spark electrode and other parts as necessary with a stove and oven repair professional.
Poor Heating
- If there is an issue with your igniter (gas) or main controller (electric), you will have to replace it for better function.
Faulty Baking/Broiling
- If you have an electric range, replace the element or wiring. If you have a gas range, inspect the valve to ensure that gas is getting to the oven.
How To Interview Potential Appliance Repair Pros
It is important to discuss a few things regarding your appliance repair needs with the pro before you hire their services. You and the appliance repair professional should ask each other some questions to determine whether your appliance can be repaired or not. You can also refer to our Ultimate Hiring Guide to help you choose the right pro.
Appliance Specifications
- Tell the pro which appliance you want to be repaired, the brand and model number, years of usage, and location of the appliance within your household.
- Also, mention whether the appliance is gas or electric. The type of appliance will determine the time frame, cost and risk of fixing it.
- Inform them for how long the appliance has been broken, how it broke and if you did anything to fix it.
- Remember, appliance repair professionals will be able to help you better if they have all the necessary information.
Parts Availability
- Some appliances require specific parts to get fixed. Finding and buying these parts can result in additional costs on your bill. Ask the pro if they can easily find any required parts without spending a fortune, also if they can get a good quality used appliances part instead of buying brand new.
Damage Cover
- Sometimes repairing even a smaller appliance can result in major damages. Before hiring a pro, ask them whether they will be covering any damage costs and how much.
Guarantee Cover
- Appliance repair professionals do a really good job of fixing your appliance as per your needs but machines are unpredictable! Sometimes the same problem arises again after a couple of days, weeks or months. Don’t forget to ask your pro if they cover the appliance repair guarantee in such situations. Know what their terms and conditions are for future assistance in this case.
- If they do provide a conditional guarantee, ask for a written document specifying the same.
Before You Hire a Pro
It is important for the safety of you and your family that you hire a verified and licensed professional to repair your appliances. HomeStars helps you to make confident hiring decisions by providing you with the tools you need to hire right. Look out for a Verified badge on company profiles as this badge lets you know that a company has passed HomeStars rigorous credit, criminal and background checks. Be sure to look at the company’s Star Score and their reviews to help you make an informed hiring decision.
Whether your washer needs to be repaired or your fridge needs to be replaced, there are numerous appliance repair professionals on HomeStars that can help you out. Click here to find an appliance repair pro in your area