![How much does it cost to repair a dishwasher? [October 2025]](https://d21dfqs8hl0txa.cloudfront.net/cost-guides/main/how-much-does-dishwasher-repair-cost.png)
The short answer
- The total cost of repairing a dishwasher can cost between £50 - £450 (inc VAT)
- The specific type of repair will be the biggest cost factor - for example, unblocking a filter will usually cost less than control board issues
- If the cost of repair is 50% less than the price of a new machine, it's usually more cost-effective to repair instead of replace
- You can extend the lifetime of your dishwasher by regular cleaning and maintenance
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Contents
- How much does the labour cost to repair a dishwasher?
- How much do replacement parts cost?
- What other factors affect the cost of repairing a dishwasher?
- What are the common reasons for dishwashers breaking down?
- How can I prevent dishwasher breakdowns?
- Can I fix a dishwasher myself?
- When is it more cost-effective to replace instead of repair a dishwasher?
- Where can I find an appliance engineer to repair a dishwasher?
- Sources
How much does the labour cost to repair a dishwasher?
Labour costs for dishwasher repairs typically range from £50 to £150 (including VAT), depending on the type of repair and location. Engineers usually charge by the hour, with a minimum one-hour call-out charge.
Repairs generally take 1 to 3 hours, with simpler jobs like unblocking a filter or replacing a door seal taking less time than complex motor or control board issues.
Here's a cost breakdown of how much you can expect to pay for labour both inside and outside of London.
| Repair type | Labour time | Price range (outside London) | Price range (London) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minor fix (e.g., unclogging filter, replacing hose) | 1 hour | £50 – £70 | £70 – £100 |
| Moderate repair (e.g., replacing door seal, fixing drainage issues) | 1–2 hours | £70 – £100 | £90 – £120 |
| Major repair (e.g., motor, pump, or control board replacement) | 2–3 hours | £90 – £130 | £120 – £150 |
You'll usually pay a premium for an appliance engineer in London and other major cities. In London specifically, you can expect to pay roughly 20% more than in other regions of the UK.
Find out how much dishwasher repair costs
Get a quote onlineHow much do replacement parts cost?
If your engineer needs replacement parts to complete the repair, they will be able to source these for you. However, there's usually an added 20% markup to cover their time and travel.
The cost of replacement parts varies depending on your dishwasher’s make and model. See below for average part prices:
| Part type | Price range (inc. VAT) |
|---|---|
| Pump | £25 – £60 |
| Door seal | £20 – £50 |
| Heating element | £40 – £100 |
| Spray arm | £15 – £40 |
| Motor | £80 – £250 |
| Electronic control board (PCB) | £100 – £300 |
What other factors affect the cost of repairing a dishwasher?
There are a few other factors that will ultimately determine the final price you will pay for dishwasher repair.
1. When you book
If you book during the weekend, bank holidays, evenings or super early in the morning, you can expect to pay a premium. Last-minute call-outs are also typically charged at a much higher rate.
2. Who you book with
Booking with an independent appliance engineer usually comes with a lower rate compared to larger, more established companies. Sole traders operating below the VAT threshold may also not charge the additional 20% VAT, helping keep costs down.
Despite the higher price point, larger companies often have a lot more to offer when it comes to perks. For example, you'll usually have access to a wider selection of slots, including same-day availability, instant online booking, and 7-day customer support. They'll also usually have backup engineers on standby in case of sickness on the day.
3. Age and condition of your dishwasher
Older appliances or models with rare parts may require more labour and costlier components. If multiple parts fail, replacement may be more cost-effective than repair.
What are the common reasons for dishwashers breaking down?
The most common reason dishwashers break down is related to drainage and water flow issues.
Clogged filters or spray arms can prevent proper water circulation, leaving dishes dirty, while a blocked or faulty pump may stop the dishwasher mid-cycle or cause leaks.
Leaking door seals or hoses are another frequent culprit, as worn or cracked components can allow water to escape and sometimes lead to electrical faults.
Other causes include worn heating elements, malfunctioning motors, or control board failures, though these are less common.
How can I prevent dishwasher breakdowns?
There are some quick and easy ways to expand the lifespan of your dishwasher and keep it in tip-top condition.
| Prevention tip | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Clean filters and spray arms regularly | Removes food particles, grease, and debris to ensure proper water flow and prevent blockages. |
| Check and maintain door seals and hoses | Prevents leaks caused by cracks or wear, reducing the risk of water damage and electrical faults. |
| Use the correct detergent and rinse aid | Avoids limescale buildup and maintains optimal cleaning performance. |
| Run maintenance cycles | Periodic hot washes or dishwasher cleaners remove limescale, grease, and residue. |
| Avoid overloading the dishwasher | Prevents strain on the pump, motor, and spray arms, maintaining cleaning efficiency. |
| Level your dishwasher | Ensures even installation, preventing excessive vibration, leaks, or internal damage. |
| Remove and rinse large food debris | Reduces the risk of filter and pump blockages. |
| Leave the door slightly open after use | Allows the interior to dry, preventing mould and unpleasant odours. |
Can I fix a dishwasher myself?
While you can attempt to fix a dishwasher yourself, you risk causing further damage due to all the components.
Professional appliance engineers, on the other hand, have the experience, tools, and knowledge to diagnose and fix problems safely and efficiently. While hiring an expert may cost more upfront, it can save you time, prevent further damage, and avoid costly mistakes, ensuring your dishwasher is repaired correctly the first time.
When is it more cost-effective to replace instead of repair a dishwasher?
A good rule of thumb is if the repair costs less than 50% of the price of a new dishwasher, it’s usually more cost-effective to repair. Most dishwashers last around 8-12 years, so if your appliance is fairly new and hasn’t had many issues before, a repair can give it several more years of life.
However, there are a few situations where replacement makes more sense.
- The dishwasher is over 10 years old. Older machines are less energy-efficient and more prone to repeated faults.
- The cost of multiple repairs adds up. If your machine keeps breaking down, replacement is often the cheaper option in the long run.
- Parts are expensive or difficult to source. For older or discontinued models, replacement parts may be rare or costly.
- You want better energy efficiency. Newer dishwashers use less water and electricity, which can reduce your household bills.
Thanks to the Right to Repair legislation (introduced in the UK in 2021), manufacturers are now required to provide spare parts and repair information for dishwashers for up to 10 years after production ends. [1] This means repairs are often easier and more affordable than before.
Where can I find an appliance engineer to repair a dishwasher?
It's pretty easy to find a reliable appliance engineer if you know where to look. A good first step is asking family or friends if they can recommend someone they’ve used locally.
Local trade directories are also a great way to find accredited engineers in your area.
The quickest and easiest way to find a trusted professional is to book through a well-established tradesperson service, like Housekeep. You can get an instant quote online, choose a date and time that works for you, and we’ll send a fully vetted engineer to get your dishwasher back up and running.
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Written by Georgina Shepherd & Henry Paterson
Georgina is one Housekeep's home services experts. She's interviewed thousands of the UK's best cleaners and tradespeople - so whether you need advice on a stubborn stain, or you're looking for tips to find the perfect plumber, Georgina's got you covered.
With years of experience in the industry, Henry has delivered talks at industry events including the Ideal Home Show and regularly features as an industry expert for publications including the Sun, Mail Online, Martha Stewart and many more.
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