How much does it cost to replace a washing machine drum?
Prices for washing machine drum replacement vary between £150 and £250, depending on the machine's brand, model, type of drum, and labour fees, as well as the appliance age.
Washing machine drum replacement is a major repair that requires the expertise of a professional technician, it is time-consuming, and quite costly. The average prices in UK vary between £150 and £250, and depend on the washing machine's brand, model, and labour fees.
Factors Affecting Drum Replacement Costs
Type of Drum
Modern washing machines now have sealed drums, where previously traditional metal drum has been replaced with a plastic one. The supporting components like spider and bearings have been sealed together with the drum, meaning that the whole tub has to be replaced if one of them breaks down, as it is impossible to open and repair them individually. This leads to increased costs for both labour and parts.
Labour Fees
Labour fees for washing machine repairs have an impact on the final price of the drum replacement service, as they are charged separately to the cost of the component. The average labour costs for the UK vary between £60 and £80 per hour. Companies also offer fixed prices that include the initial visit, diagnostics, and the second visit for the actual repair after the replacement component has been ordered and received.
Machine's Age and Brand
Older machines and premium brands' drums are usually more costly to replace. Components for old appliances are much harder to find, and the high-end brands parts are more expensive.
Is Drum Replacement Worth It?
Drum replacement is a costly repair so it's important to do your research - check prices online and call to obtain a few quotes before you book a technician. It might as well be wiser to buy a new washing machine, which will be more cost-effective in the long run. Consider the following factors when taking that important decision.
Machine's Age
The lifespan of the average washing machine is usually 10 to 15 years. If your appliance is nearing this age, buying a new one it instead of replacing the drum would be more economical.
Frequency of Repairs
If a suggested drum replacement is the latest in a row of recent repairs, investing in a new washing machine is most advisable. Apart from being too costly, this intervention may not necessarily improve the overall performance of your appliance.
Energy Efficiency
As all modern electric appliances, the latest models washing machines are more energy-efficient. Upgrading to a newer version instead of replacing the machine's drum could save you money over time.
Conclusion
The average cost of £150 to £250 for replacing a washing machine drum may not seem too high considering that it is a major component of the appliance. But when factors like the machine's age and condition are taken into account, it might lead to the conclusion that a new, more energy-efficient washing machine is the better choice in certain situations. Consulting a professional repair technician would help you weight the pros and cons when taking this important decision.
