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If your refrigerator needs to be repaired, contact an appliance repair company to diagnose the issue and repair your refrigerator. It’s okay to leave it plugged in and running, but unplug it if it makes unusual noises.

Signs that your refrigerator may need repairs include:

• Food items are not being held at the correct temperature (between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit)

• The fridge is using too much energy and seems to run all the time

• Loud and/or unusual noises

Possible causes include:

• A damaged door 

• Faulty condenser coil 

• Malfunctioning control board

Contacting an appliance repair professional as soon as possible can help save items in your fridge from spoiling. Common fridge repairs include the compressor, control board, thermostat, defrost motor, coils, and ice maker.

The answer to repairing vs. replacing appliances depends on the type of appliance, the severity of the issue or damage, and the quality of it. If you’ve purchased a top-of-the-line small appliance, it’s almost always more cost-effective to repair it than to replace it. You should also consider the cost to repair it, though. If the repair cost is more than half the cost of a new version, lean toward purchasing a new one. Your small appliance technician could also help you decide by determining the expected remaining lifespan after the repair.

Small appliance repair costs average around $50 to $400, with costs ranging significantly based on the type of appliance, the extent of the damage, the issue, the appliance brand, and the availability of replacement parts. Generally speaking, you’ll pay less for repairs on very small appliances, like blenders and toasters, than you will for microwave repairs. We recommend consulting a small appliance repair technician for a quote before starting the project.

The average cost to repair an appliance depends on the appliance, make, model, the part that needs repair, and how long it takes to replace or repair a part. The following are the average repair costs for the most common appliances:

• Refrigerator: $200–$300

• Freezer: $90–$500

• Oven, cooktop, range: $100–$500

• Microwave: $50–$400

• Dishwasher: $160–$300

• Garbage disposal: $70–$250

• Washing machine: $50–$450

• Dryer: $100–$400

Appliance repair contractors may charge $40 to $120 per hour for labor, and most also provide the replacement parts necessary at an additional cost.  It’s also important to note that these prices can go up on holidays and emergency fees may apply if you need your appliance fixed immediately.

Small appliances typically include microwaves, toasters, toaster ovens, food processors, blenders, mixers, slow cookers, air fryers, coffee makers, rice cookers, and any other appliance that can sit on your countertop. Major appliances include refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, cooktops, washers, and dryers. Some people may include HVAC equipment like condensers and air handlers in this category, too. Small appliances are more of a specialty, so there’s a good chance a typical appliance repair company won’t be able to service and repair small appliances.