Appliance Repair Cost

What is the charge for the first 1/2 hour or hour of service, and what is the minimum repair charge?
Your cost should be roughly $75 - $150 for an hour's repair. For specific jobs, there is a good flat rate guide, maintained by Appliance Service News and ServiceMagic, that lists repairs by brand and type of machine. Keep in mind, however, that the guide does not account for variances in local labor rates or cost of living. Still, it will give you a good "ballpark idea" of what a job should cost.

What is the charge if you decline repair?
If you decide not to have a recommended repair performed, a "trip charge" or similar minimal service or diagnosis fee is charged. Most companies will offer "free estimates" only if they do the repair. While we are lead to believe that the estimate is "free", somewhere the company's expense of the "free estimate" is in the cost of the repair.

Does the company have liability insurance? How long has the company been in business?

What is the warranty or guarantee?
Does it cover parts, labor or both? You can expect most repairs to offer a minimum 90 day warranty on parts and minimum 30 day warranty for the labor. Remember that the warranty is only as good as the company standing behind it. Get it in writing - it should clearly state in writing what is and what is not covered. Make sure that any verbal agreements or promises are in writing.

Getting estimates:
When calling a repair technician, tell them your problem - don't expect the problem to be diagnosed over the phone. Any number of parts could have failed and such a diagnosis cannot be made without inspecting the unit. The more information about the machine and the problem you can give, the more helpful it will be. Get the manufacture's name and model number ready. Get it in writing - whether it's an estimate or invoice for work performed, it should be detailed and itemized - stating the charges for each part, valid manufactures' part numbers, labor charges and sales tax.

It is not reasonable for you to expect them to name an exact time when they will be there. A 2 to 4 hour time window is reasonable. Technicians plan their day by a number of factors. As the day wears on, emergencies occur. If they get behind, they should call you and revise their ETA so that you aren't waiting all day for them to show.

Machines can be temperamental, and technicians are human. If they make an error in diagnosing or repairing your machine, they should return to the worksite and fix it again for no extra service or time charges. However, there may be difference in the cost of parts or labor, for which there should be some kind of adjustment; you should expect to either get a refund or to pay a little more. Even the best technicians experience "callback rates" of about 4 to 7 percent. You should not have to wait any longer for them to return to fix the machine a second time than you waited the first time. If you're not getting satisfaction after re-contacting the company about problems, file a complaint the the Better Business Bureau online.

When the technician replaces a part, you still own it. In most jurisdictions, they are required by law to leave it with you. However, there may be some exceptions for safety, cleanliness or other concerns. If you would like your old parts back, be sure to ask before the work begins. However, be aware that if the part is under warranty, it may have to be returned to the manufacturer.

Additional information on electric repair can be found through the National Electronic Service Dealers Association's website at www.nesda.com.

What goes into a service call?
People frequently protest the charges for service calls at the home to repair radio, television or appliances. No doubt there are cases of overcharge, but on the other hand many people do not realize the factors involved even in an honest charge. That charge is not determined solely by the time on the job, could be about the same for a simple job of replacing a fuse as it is for a difficult job.

Good service doesn't "just happen!" Operating a dependable service business requires organization, competent management and a substantial capital investment. So don't judge service charges solely by the time spent in your home. When that top-notch technician knocks on your door, many costs have been incurred just to get him there, ready to the job. Here are some of them:

Specialized training (up to four years); Truck (ladders, equipment, etc.); travel time; professional tools; accurate testing apparatus; stock of spare parts; exchanging parts included in the warranty; time on the job; office rent; office equipment; office help; stationary and office supplies; light, heat, phone & fax; warehouse & shop; truck maintenance & operation; garage rent; insurance; employee benefits; taxes; permits; training & certification; licensing.

Servicing consumer products and providing service in the home on such products or on home improvements and installations is a large industry. When service is provided without charge, it is nevertheless, part of the cost of doing business.

Be cautious when getting your TV/VCR repaired

You take your television or VCR in to be repaired. You don't expect the cost will be much because the appliance is not that old. But to your surprise, you receive a bill for more than what the TV or VCR is worth. Did you just get ripped off? How will you know? Unfortunately, there are some TV/VCR repair businesses out there that aren't very honest.

The Better Business Bureau (BBB) receives numerous complaints from consumers who get swindled by companies charging for unnecessary repairs. To avoid being taken, the BBB offers the following tips:

- Get referrals. Ask your friends, relatives and neighbors for names of repair companies they've used and would recommend.
- Check the Better Business Bureau reliability report for any company you are interested in.
- Ask the repair company to give you referrals and follow-up with each one. If they hesitate or can't supply any names, look elsewhere.
- Get a written estimate before any work is done. Find out exactly how much the services will cost and make sure that the amount quoted includes all the materials and labor charges.
- If possible, get at least two estimates for the work that needs to be done.
- Do not pay for repair work in advance.
- If the repairperson comes to your home, make sure you supervise their activity.
Pay by check or credit card whenever possible. It's more difficult to catch repair con men when you pay in cash. Make sure you get a receipt that shows you've paid for the repairs.
- Check your warranties. Some household items are covered by long-term warranties; you may be able to get the manufacturer to repair it at no charge.
- If you're offered an additional service contract when you buy your TV/VCR, ask yourself if it's worth it. Oftentimes the service agreement expires before any work is needed or it doesn't cover the part needing repair.

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