Your appliance breaks, you need it fixed fast, and you don’t have time to gamble on whether the repair company is actually legit. The last thing you want is to get overcharged, misled, or scammed by a so-called “expert” who is more interested in making a sale than fixing your problem.
The truth is, not all appliance repair companies have your best interests in mind. Some are looking to upsell you on a new appliance, some push unnecessary insurance plans, and others send out untrained techs who are just following YouTube tutorials. If you don’t know what to look for, you could end up paying for a “repair” that doesn’t actually fix anything.
Here’s what to watch out for—and how to make sure you’re hiring a real professional.
The Most Common Appliance Repair Scams
1. The Retailer “Repair” Scam
What happens: You call a big-box store that sells appliances for a repair. The technician shows up, barely looks at the appliance, and immediately recommends you buy a new one instead of fixing it. Why? Because they make way more money selling you a new appliance than repairing your old one.
How to avoid it: If a company is also in the business of selling appliances, be skeptical of a quick “just buy a new one” diagnosis. Get a second opinion from a dedicated appliance repair specialist who isn’t financially motivated to push you into a new purchase.
2. The “Bait-and-Switch” Pricing Scam
What happens: The company advertises a low service fee ($39–$49) to lure you in, but once the technician is at your house, the price suddenly skyrockets. They either find a “major issue” that requires hundreds more to fix or hit you with unexpected labor and parts fees.
How to avoid it: Always ask what’s included in the service call fee and whether it applies toward the total repair cost. Reputable companies will be upfront about pricing before they show up.
3. Selling Insurance Instead of Standing Behind Their Work
What happens: Instead of providing a warranty on their repairs, some companies try to sell you an additional insurance plan. Why? Because it’s an easy way to make money without actually guaranteeing the work they just did.
How to avoid it: A professional repair company stands behind their work with a real warranty. If they try to sell you insurance instead, ask yourself: Why aren’t they confident enough in their repair to guarantee it?
4. Sending Untrained “Technicians” Who Just Watch YouTube
What happens: The company sends someone out who isn’t properly trained, doesn’t have access to manufacturer technical data, and is basically Googling the problem as they go. They take twice as long as a real technician would, misdiagnose the issue, and in some cases, make things worse.
How to avoid it: When you’re paying for a repair, you’re paying for expertise. Period. Make sure the company invests in ongoing technician training and that their techs are approved by manufacturers that only provide technical resources to certified servicers.
Certain brands only allow authorized servicers to access their technical manuals, diagnostic tools, and software updates. These brands require technicians to attend regular training, pass background screenings, and meet strict standards before they can service their products. These brands include:
- LG
- Samsung
- Dacor
- BSH (Bosch, Thermador, Gaggenau, etc.)
- Miele
- Asko
- GE
Other manufacturers, such as Whirlpool, Electrolux, Sub-Zero, and SpeedQueen, allow professional servicers access to their technical resources, making it easier for experienced technicians to perform proper diagnostics and repairs.
If a company isn’t authorized for brands that require certification, or if their technicians aren’t trained and don’t have access to critical service information, they shouldn’t be working on your appliance.
5. The “Hourly Rate” Trap
What happens: The company offers a cheap hourly rate, which sounds like a deal—until you realize the tech has no idea what they’re doing and takes three times as long as an experienced professional would. Suddenly, your “good deal” turns into a massive labor bill.
How to avoid it: Flat-rate pricing protects you. Ask if the company follows the Appliance Blue Book, the industry standard for flat-rate labor. With a flat rate, if a repair takes longer than expected, you don’t pay extra. You know the cost upfront, and there are no surprises.
Think about it: If someone doesn’t know what they’re doing, they’re going to take longer than someone who does. Period.
A professional technician works efficiently because they have the right training, knowledge, and access to technical data. That’s why flat-rate pricing is the way to go—you get expertise without worrying about a skyrocketing bill if the job takes longer than expected.
How to Find a Trustworthy Appliance Repair Company
Now that you know the scams, here’s how to make sure you’re hiring a company that actually knows what they’re doing:
Check Reviews and Reputation – Look up the company on Google or the Better Business Bureau. If they have no reviews, fake-looking 5-star reviews, or tons of complaints, that’s a bad sign.
Look for Technician Training and Certifications – Ask if the company trains their technicians regularly and whether they are approved servicers for major manufacturers. If they can’t provide proof, they’re probably not qualified.
Insist on Flat-Rate Pricing – A reputable company should be able to tell you the total cost of the repair upfront. If they insist on an hourly rate with no cap, think twice.
Ask About Their Warranty Policy – If a company doesn’t offer a solid warranty on parts and labor, walk away. If they’re confident in their work, they should be willing to stand behind it.
Final Word: Don’t Pay for a Scam—Pay for Real Expertise
At the end of the day, appliance repair should be about fixing your problem—not upselling, misleading, or overcharging you. The best way to protect yourself? Do your homework, ask the right questions, and trust your instincts.
Need an honest repair from a company that actually knows what they’re doing? That’s exactly what we do. Call us today, and get your appliance fixed right—the first time.
