How Much Does Washer & Dryer Repair Really Cost in the Tri-Cities? (A Simple Breakdown)
- tricitiesappliance
- Oct 25, 2025
- 3 min read
When your washer stops spinning or your dryer stops heating, the first thing most people do is Google repair prices. And if you’re in Kennewick, Pasco, Richland, West Richland, Benton City, Sunnyside, Hermiston, or Walla Walla, you might be wondering:
Should I repair my washer/dryer… or is it cheaper to rent instead?
The truth is: appliance repair costs vary depending on the issue, the age of the machine, and the brand. This guide breaks everything down in simple, realistic numbers based on common repair rates in the Tri-Cities area.
Service Call Fees in the Tri-Cities
Before any repair is done, most appliance repair companies charge a diagnostic or service fee, which is typically:
$75–$120
(Then applied toward the repair if you choose to fix it.)
Even if the technician can’t fix the issue or the repair is too expensive to justify, you still pay that fee.
Common Washer Repairs & What They Typically Cost
Washers have more moving parts than dryers, so repair costs vary widely.
1. Washer not draining
Likely causes: pump, clogged drain, worn belt
Typical repair: $120–$220
2. Washer not spinning
Likely causes: lid switch, motor coupling, drive belt
Typical repair: $100–$200
3. Washer shaking excessively
Likely causes: suspension rods, leveling issue
Typical repair: $120–$180
4. Washer leaking water
Likely causes: hoses, pump, door seal
Typical repair: $120–$250
5. Washer not filling with water
Likely causes: inlet valve, control board
Typical repair: $120–$280
These numbers reflect average local repair rates for standard machines—not high-end or specialty washers.
Common Dryer Repairs & Their Costs (Tri-Cities Averages)
Dryers are simpler machines than washers, so they are usually cheaper to repair.
1. Dryer not heating
Likely causes: heating element, thermostat, fuse
Typical repair: $120–$200
2. Dryer making loud noises
Likely causes: rollers, drum belt, bearings
Typical repair: $100–$180
3. Dryer not spinning
Likely causes: belt, motor pulley
Typical repair: $120–$250
4. Dryer taking too long to dry
Likely causes: restricted venting or clogged lint path
Typical repair: $80–$180
5. Dryer won’t turn on
Likely causes: fuse, control board, motor
Typical repair: $140–$260
When Repairs Aren’t Worth the Cost
There are times when repairing your washer or dryer is simply not the best financial choice. For example:
The machine is 10+ years old
Multiple issues are happening at once
It’s a high-mileage used machine
Parts are discontinued or expensive
Repair costs exceed half the value of the machine
If a washer and dryer each need $150–$250 in repairs, it often makes more sense to look at replacement or renting instead of sinking money into old appliances.
How Renting Compares to Repairing (Realistic Tri-Cities Example)
Let’s say:
Your dryer stops heating
Repair is quoted at $150–$200
Your washer is making noise and may soon need repair too
Even one repair bill can equal:
2–4 months of renting a washer & dryer set
With renting, you get:
A working washer & dryer right away
No repair costs
No diagnostic fees
Free replacement if something fails
No worrying about age or condition
One predictable monthly payment
You’re not gambling on whether the repair will “buy you another year” or just another few months.
Why Tri-Cities Renters Often Choose Renting Over Repairing
Renting tends to be the better option if:
You’re tired of appliances breaking
You don’t have the budget for repair surprises
Your machines are older
You want something reliable with no hassle
You want fast delivery and installation
You’re renting a home or apartment
You want a no-stress solution that doesn’t involve hauling heavy machines
Many families find that renting eliminates the stress of not knowing what might break next.
Repairing vs. Renting: Side-by-Side Comparison
Factor | Repairing Your Machines | Renting Newer Used Machines |
Upfront Cost | $75–$300+ | $0 |
Replacement If It Breaks Again | More repairs | Included |
Predictability | Low | High |
Risk Level | Moderate–High | Very Low |
Delivery/Installation | Not included | Included |
Total First-Year Cost | $150–$600+ | $660–$900 |
Repairing can make sense if your machine is newer and the repair is simple.
Renting makes sense if you want predictable costs and reliability.
Final Thoughts: Repairing or Renting?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer.If your washer or dryer is fairly new and the repair is minor, fixing it might be the right move.
But if your appliances are older, unreliable, or starting to develop multiple issues, renting a washer and dryer can be:
More predictable
Less stressful
More convenient
Faster
Often cheaper in the long run
You don’t pay for repairs.You don’t deal with downtime.You don’t haul appliances around.
Just clean, reliable laundry at home — every day.
Ready for a Reliable Laundry Solution?
Click below to view simple rental plans and schedule fast delivery:
Comments