Dishwasher Repair Cost: What It Really Costs to Fix Your Dishwasher

When your dishwasher, a household appliance that automatically cleans dishes using water and detergent. Also known as kitchen dishwasher, it stops working, the first question isn’t "Can I fix it?"—it’s "How much will it cost?" The truth is, dishwasher repair costs can range from under £50 to over £300, and it’s not always obvious which side of that line you’re on. A simple pump replacement might cost less than a new spray arm, but a failing control board could mean you’re spending half the price of a new unit just to keep the old one running.

What you’re really paying for isn’t just the part—it’s the diagnosis. Many people assume a dishwasher won’t drain means a clogged filter, but it could be a faulty pump, a broken door switch, or a wiring issue. A technician needs to test the motor, check the water inlet valve, inspect the drain hose, and sometimes even scan the control board with diagnostic tools. That’s why a service call fee is often non-negotiable, even if you decide not to go ahead with the repair. In Glastonbury, most local repair services charge between £40 and £70 just to show up and take a look. Parts? A new filter runs £15, a drain pump £60, and a control board can hit £150. Labor adds another £50 to £100, depending on complexity.

And here’s the thing most repair shops won’t tell you: dishwasher lifespan, the average number of years a dishwasher functions before needing replacement. Also known as dishwasher life expectancy, it is usually 8 to 12 years. If yours is 10 years old and the control board is fried, you’re not fixing a machine—you’re buying time. New dishwashers today are quieter, use less water, and come with smart features you can’t retrofit. So before you say yes to a £200 repair, ask: "Will this fix last two years? Or will I be back here in six months?"

Some fixes are no-brainers. A broken spray arm? Easy. A leaking door seal? Cheap. But if your dishwasher is making grinding noises, not heating water, or won’t start at all, you’re dealing with deeper issues. A failing heating element can cost £80 to replace, but if the tub is rusting or the motor is dying, you’re chasing ghosts. And don’t forget: if your unit uses a lot of electricity or water, even a "successful" repair might not save you money in the long run.

Below, you’ll find real-world examples of what people in Glastonbury have paid to fix their dishwashers—what broke, what it cost, and whether it was worth it. Some repairs saved them hundreds. Others? They wished they’d just bought new. You’ll also see how to spot the early signs of failure before your dishes start piling up. No fluff. Just facts you can use to decide whether to fix, replace, or wait.