The national average cost to install an appliance ranges from $125-$249*, depending on the type of appliance. However, prices can fluctuate depending on the appliance.

Here’s a quick look at average labor costs (not including the unit) to install various appliances:

• Dishwasher: $149-$325*

• Microwave: $125-$200*

• Oven/stove: $135-$300*

• Refrigerator: $129-$350*

• Washer/dryer: $120-$250*

• Window, wall, or portable AC units: $129-$219*

*Please note that all pricing represents the national average cost of appliance installation services and is subject to change at any time. Request a quote from a local professional to receive a personalized cost estimate.

Installation professionals can handle many types of appliances. On Thumbtack, we have professionals who can install: 

• Central vacuum cleaners

• Dishwashers

• Microwave ovens

• Ovens/stoves

• Refrigerators

• Trash compactors

• Ventilation hoods

• Washing machines and dryers

• Window, wall, or portable AC units

Before the professional arrives at your home to install your new appliance, make sure you complete the following steps: 

1. Provide accurate measurements. Measure the space to ensure your appliance will fit in your kitchen or laundry room. If you need help with this step, ask your pro if they can take measurements before beginning the installation. 

2. Make sure they can access the utilities. Whether your appliance requires water, electricity, or gas, ensure the pro can connect to the power source and water supply.

3. Clear the area. Remove any furniture and other items blocking the installer from reaching the work area or removing the old appliance. You don’t want them to encounter any obstructions that could slow the project down (which may end up costing you more money in labor).  

4. Consider removing the old appliance. If possible, consider removing your old appliance by yourself or with help from your friends. But if the appliance is too heavy or you need help discarding it, ask your pro if they can handle this step.

 It can take as little as 30 minutes or a few hours to install an appliance. How long it takes depends on the appliance, if there are any issues with the installation site, and other factors.

Many professional installers offer warranties for their workmanship, parts, and appliances. However, it’s important that you ask about warranties before hiring a pro.

You should also ask about disclaimers and ways the warranty can be voided. In many cases, you can void your warranty by failing to maintain the appliance. You might also void your warranty if you have an unauthorized or unqualified person repair it.

Lastly, you should also know when your warranty expires. Make sure you don’t wait too long to get your appliance repaired.

Some installers can remove your old appliance before installing your new one. If you need this service, ask your pro if they can remove it. Also, confirm if this will incur an additional cost. 

If your pro doesn’t offer removal services and you need help, consider hiring a junk removal company. They may be able to take care of this task for you. 

It’s a good idea to be present during the installation process. By being present, you can help ensure the appliance is installed correctly. You can also keep an eye out for accidental damage to your floors, counters, and other surfaces that might occur during installation.

If your appliance isn’t working after they installed it, contact your installer. They should be able to help you troubleshoot or repair it via phone or messaging.

If you can’t get the appliance to work on your own, your installer should come back to your home to provide in-person assistance and solve the problem.

In some cases, you may need to pay additional fees for:

• Plumbing or electrical adjustments. For example, you may need to pay more for a professional to hook up your water supply and install drainage pipes. Or, you might need an electrician to install a new circuit.

• Modifications to surrounding surfaces or structures. When installing a new dishwasher, for example, you might need to modify your kitchen cabinets so the dishwasher fits.

• Removing your old appliance. Find out if removing your old appliance is included in your installation quote. If not, be prepared to pay an additional fee. 

Before hiring a professional, make sure you understand all of the fees you may encounter during the installation process.

Finding a trustworthy installation professional requires some research. 

First, look for local pros with high customer ratings and plenty of positive reviews. Read the reviews to determine if the installer provides high-quality work, is punctual, communicates quickly, and provides fair and transparent pricing. In the reviews, check to see if:

• The pro has a history of damaging customers’ flooring, walls, cabinets, etc. when installing appliances. 

• Customers have complained that their appliances don’t work properly after installation or require frequent repairs. 

• Previous customers were surprised by the final cost because it was much higher than they discussed with the pro. 

If you can’t find enough reviews, ask the pro if they can provide references. 

Also, double-check the pro’s credentials. Find out if they’re licensed in your state. Some states may require a special appliance installer license; others may provide a few exceptions. Visit our Smart Hiring guide for more resources and advice.