How much do dishwasher repairs cost?

On an hourly basis, technicians charge between $40 and $90 to repair appliances, including dishwashers.

>>See local costs. Get free estimates from dishwasher repair pros near you.

“Most jobs are between 30 and 90 minutes," says Matthew Fitch, who owns an appliance repair company. So, you're not likely to rack up a bill that's more than a few hundred dollars.

Dishwasher repairs cost between $50 and $300 on average, depending on what's wrong and how long it takes to fix. The total generally includes an initial inspection, troubleshooting, replacements and labor for the repair.

For example, a Thumbtack pro in Columbus, OH who specializes in repairing appliances charges a $70 trip and diagnosis fee, plus a flat rate for labor based on the problem and parts. The company's owner, Matthew Fitch, says his average dishwasher repair ranges from $120 to $230.

Types of dishwasher problems

The type of dishwasher problem will also impact repair costs. For example, replacing a gasket or cleaning a pump will be a different price than fixing a leaking hose. Here are a few examples of common dishwasher problems and their cost to repair, provided by Matthew:

• Tripped breaker or parental lock on: $70
• Leak or improper draining due to blockage: $100-$110
• Door latch problem: $130-$200
• Control board or motor issue: $300-$350

One of the most common problems is a dishwasher not draining due to broken glass in the pump, Matthew says. This is usually an easy fix and costs only a trip fee plus labor.

Service calls and trip fees

Some appliance repair companies will credit the initial diagnosis and trip fee back to you if you have them do the repair. For example, a Thumbtack pro in Olathe, Kansas, charges a $39 service call fee but will waive it if you hire them to fix your appliance.

Similarly, another Thumbtack pro and appliance repairer in Buford, GA charges a $79.99 diagnosis fee, which they will apply to the total if you hire them for the job. They perform service on a variety of dishwasher brands, including GE dishwashers, Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, Bosch, Electrolux, Samsung and Jenn-Air.

The Ohio-based appliance specialist charges an initial trip fee of $70 and then charges labor separately as a flat rate of $30 to $100, depending on the complexity of the fix.

How much do dishwasher replacement parts cost?

For some issues, such as a broken dishwasher door spring or gasket, you'll also need to pay to replace the parts. The cost of a replacement depends on the parts, as well as the make and model of the dishwasher. Some replacement parts are relatively inexpensive while others can really add to your total bill.

For example, the cost to replace dishwasher pump is about $70, and a dishwasher heating element replacement will cost between $35 and $200.

Typical dishwasher replacement part prices:

If you don't need to replace anything, that's a best-case scenario that can keep the cost of your repairs to $100 or less.

>>Compare prices. Contact dishwasher repair pros near you for free quotes.

The average cost to diagnose problems for more expensive, older or high-end models ranges from $80 to $100. Examples of brands that make some of these higher-end dishwashers include Bosch, KitchenAid and Thermador.

"They're a little more technical, but sometimes you get extended warranties on control boards and certain parts," says Fitch.

Very old dishwashers can also be costly to repair because the diagnosis can be more difficult and parts harder to find.

In addition to issues with the breakers, locks, door latch, control board and drain, here are some other signs you should talk to a pro and have them diagnose your dishwasher issue:

• Water leaking at the bottom
• Drain issues
• Improper cleaning
• Water puddling in the bottom of the tray or incomplete drainage
• Broken seals on the interior and exterior of the door

Not always. The average lifespan of a dishwasher is 9 years and if it's getting old, you may save money and future hassles by upgrading to a new model instead.

Even with newer models, a replacement may be less expensive than a repair. If you're not sure if it's worth repairing, an appliance repair company can help you decide if you're better off with a replacement.

“I usually inspect, diagnose and then give the customer all the options," Fitch says. “I will give them my honest opinion on whether to repair or replace it with a new dishwasher."

If your dishwasher is still under warranty, a repair is generally your best option. However, most dishwasher warranties last only one year. 

Fixing a leaky dishwasher or door that won't close properly doesn't have to break the bank. To save money on repairs, use the following tips:

• Check your warranty. See if it will cover any or all of the repairs you need.
• Prevent dishwasher disasters. Wash delicate glassware by hand — broken glass in the pump is a common cause of a dishwasher not draining.
• Take on do-it-yourself repairs. You may be able to perform a simple dishwasher repair yourself with a few basic tools and the help of an online DIY. For example, you may be able to easily remove food clogging the drain basket without a technician.
• Compare dishwasher repair costs. Contact a few appliance repair companies in your area to compare prices for diagnosis and repairs. Look for a company that will credit the initial fee if you hire them for the repair.

You'll want to hire a reputable technician to fix your dishwasher, and the only way to do that is to research. Start by reading appliance repair company reviews. Research what other customers have said about the professionals in your area, and find a pro who has demonstrated that they can quickly identify the problem and provide a feasible solution. 

Make sure the technician has the proper credentials in your city and state, and ask all of the potentials pros to send you a free cost estimate so you can compare prices and save money.