A dishwasher is a very handy and time-saving appliance to have, and many households rely on the convenience they offer for cleaning their dishes, utensils and other items daily.

If your dishwasher breaks down, it can be hard to go back to washing dishes by hand. Fortunately, dishwasher repair services are on hand to provide appliance repairs quickly and cost-effectively.

Get quotes from dishwasher repair technicians near you on hipages and read this overview to learn more about:

• Why do you need to hire a dishwasher repair technician?
• What are typical dishwasher repair services?
• How much does dishwasher repair cost?
• What factors affect dishwasher repair costs?
• How long does it take to repair a dishwasher?
• How long can a dishwasher last? 
• Is it better to repair or replace a dishwasher?
• What are some tips to take care of your dishwasher?
• What licences or qualifications does a dishwasher repair technician have?
• Questions to ask when hiring a dishwasher repair technician

Why do you need to hire a dishwasher repair technician?

If your dishwasher is faulty, you'll want it to be fixed as soon as possible by someone who knows what they're doing.

An experienced dishwasher repair technician will be able to repair most problems with dishwashers, such as leaks, faulty control panels, damaged filters and other issues, and they can service all makes, models and configurations of appliances.

Most companies will repair your dishwasher on site, when possible. They will normally have a large selection of compatible parts, or will be able to order the correct parts needed for your machine.

If your dishwasher is still under warranty, it's important to have it repaired by an authorised technician.

What are typical dishwasher repair services?

Common dishwasher problems and repairs include:

• Leaking water: This repair may involve replacing rubber gaskets or other components.

• Dishwasher not draining: This is usually related to an exhaust problem, and may require reattaching or replacing a pipe.

• Dishes not cleaning: This is usually a problem with the dishwasher filter, which may need to be unclogged or replaced.

• Dishes not drying: The heating element may need to be replaced.

• Noisy appliance: A noisy dishwasher may need a new motor or other replacement parts.

• Door not closing or not locking: The door latch or lock may need to be replaced, or there may be an electrical problem.

• Electrical issues: Dishwasher technicians can also fix problems with your appliance's control panel, motor and other electronics.

How much does dishwasher repair cost?*

Dishwasher repairs cost around $100–$300 on average, but this depends on the type of problem you have and the extent of the repairs, as well as other factors.

Expect to pay around:

• $150 for general dishwasher repairs or pump repair
• $250–$1,000 for exhaust repairs
• $50–$350 to clean or replace a filter
• $150–$350 for electrical repairs

These prices include parts and labour. A standard service call is usually around $150, including the call-out fee and 30 minutes of labour. 

Read more: How much does appliance repair cost?

What factors affect dishwasher repair costs?

There is no standard cost to repair a dishwasher. The price you are quoted will depend on factors such as:

• Type of repair: A minor leak will be cheaper to fix than a more complex electrical problem.

• Dishwasher brands: If you have an older or less common model of dishwasher, it may be more expensive to source compatible parts.

• Time taken: Most dishwasher repair technicians charge by the hour, so a major repair will cost more.

• Your location: Labour rates vary across Australia, and can be higher in metropolitan areas than suburban areas.

How long does it take to repair a dishwasher?

Most dishwasher repair services take between 30 minutes and 90 minutes. This will depend on what needs fixing and how many parts need replacing. If your technician needs to source parts, it can take more than one visit.

How long can a dishwasher last?

The lifespan of a dishwasher can depend on its quality and how often it's used. A standard dishwasher will normally last around 10 years, while a high-end appliance could last up to 20 years with good care.

Is it better to repair or replace a dishwasher?

If your dishwasher has broken down, or is no longer working as it should, dishwasher repairs are usually more affordable than buying a new dishwasher. However, this depends on the age of the dishwasher.

If your dishwasher is already more than 8–10 years old, it may require more frequent repairs, and it could be more cost-effective to replace it with a new appliance. Replacing an existing dishwasher will be cheaper than a first-time connection, as you will be able to utilise the same plumbing and electrical connections.

What are some tips to take care of your dishwasher?

You can help your dishwasher to last for longer and reduce the need for some repairs by carrying out regular maintenance. This includes:

• Cleaning the filters of trapped food and debris
• Wiping down door seals to remove dirt and grime
• Wiping down the spray arm every 6 months
• Using your dishwasher at least once a week

What licences or qualifications does a dishwasher repair technician have?

An appliance repair specialist should have a Certificate III in Appliance Service or similar qualification. This certifies the technician to install, service and repair dishwashers and other household appliances.

Questions to ask when hiring a dishwasher repair technician

To make sure you're hiring the right company for the job, ask your dishwasher or appliance repair technician:

• Will the repairs be covered under my warranty?
• What will I need to pay?
• Can you provide a detailed quote?
• Do you guarantee your work?

*Costs and prices in this article are indicative and should only be used as a guide. They also vary locally and are subject to market forces.