Written by

Sarah Noel

December 22, 2023

Fact-checked by

Tom Grupa

Average freezer repair cost

Deep freezer repair costs $100 to $400 on average. Freezer compressor replacement costs $400 to $800. The cost to fix a standalone freezer is $50 to $125 hourly. Minimum service fees are $70 to $130. Chest and upright freezer repair costs depend on the part price, brand, and warranty.

Freezer repair cost by type

Freezer repair costs $100 to $400 on average, depending on the issue.

Freezer compressor replacement cost

Freezer compressor replacement costs $400 to $800 on average. The cost of a freezer compressor is $200 to $500 for the part alone, depending on the brand. A compressor regulates the temperature by moving gasses or coolant through the freezer.

Labor costs to repair a freezer

Appliance repair costs $50 to $125 per hour on average for labor. A service call costs $70 to $130 minimum for a diagnostic report. This standard fee typically becomes credit toward the total repair cost. Hourly rates apply after the first hour of work.

Cost factors to fix a freezer

Cost factors to fix a freezer include:

• Freezer type – Uprights, built-in drawer units, and display freezers typically cost more to repair than portable or chest freezers.

• Repair type – Replacing compressors and control board parts will cost the most.

• Electrical work – An electrician costs $40 to $100 per hour for wiring work.

• Brand – High-end freezers typically require special orders for original manufacturer parts that a technician must install on a second visit.

• Freezer age – Replacement parts are often unavailable for older freezers, so complex modifications or buying a new freezer are sometimes necessary.

• Accessibility – Freezers in hard-to-reach areas or surrounded by cabinetry take longer to repair, which increases labor costs.

• Warranty – Some warranties cover the part costs, but not the labor fees. Home-appliance warranties may cover all parts and labor, depending on the plan.

• Service area – Extra costs apply for work outside of regular service areas.

Freezer tune-up and inspection costs

A freezer tune-up and inspection costs $75 to $200 on average. This service typically includes diagnostics and a tune-up with minor cleaning. Parts and labor for repairs cost extra. Annual appliance-maintenance plans typically include freezer inspections.

Freezer tune-ups include:

• Inspecting all main parts

• Vacuuming condenser and evaporator coils

• Cleaning the fans

• Testing the start relay, compressor, and capacitors

• Clearing out the condensate drain and drip tray

• Testing all temperature controls

• Checking the refrigerant levels

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a freezer?

Repairing a freezer is cheaper than a replacement for a unit less than 10 years old, or when the repair costs less than half the price of a new one. New deep freezer prices are $350 to $1,100 on average. Delivery and installation costs $50 to $150 extra.

DIY freezer repair

Easy DIY freezer repairs include replacing parts like a light bulb that costs $10 to $60 or a drawer that costs $40 to $100. Fixing a freezer typically requires an appliance-repair service professional.

Before calling a technician:

• Reset the power by unplugging it and plugging it back in.

• Verify that the temperature settings are correct.

• Adjust the legs with the help of a level so that the unit sits straight.

• Check if the circuit breaker has tripped.

• Vacuum the condenser coils.

• Move items inside the freezer that are blocking the air ducts.

• Defrost and clean blocks of ice out of the freezer.

• Use a hair dryer to melt any ice clogs in valves, vents, or drains.

• Clean the door-gasket seals to help keep cold air inside the freezer.

Freezer repair FAQs

Is it worth fixing a fridge freezer?

A freezer is worth fixing when the appliance is less than 10 to 15 years old, or when the repair cost is less than 50% of the price of a new one. If multiple parts have broken, then replacing it is typically more cost-efficient.

How long does a freezer last?

A freezer lasts 12 to 20 years on average, depending on the brand, model, and maintenance frequency. Standalone deep freezers typically outlast the common refrigerator-and-freezer combo units.

Who fixes freezers?

Professionals who fix freezers include:

• Appliance repair-service professionals

• Store technicians from Best Buy, Lowe’s, and The Home Depot

• Brand-certified service centers with factory-trained pros

• HVAC and refrigeration companies

Getting free estimates from freezer repair services

Before hiring a handyman service or appliance repairer near you, be sure to:

• Compare 3+ bids and beware of the lowest quotes for low-quality service.

• Check if they have NASTeC and EPA refrigerant-handling certifications.

• Verify that the freezer repair company has licenses, bonds, and insurance.

• If you’re in California, verify they have a C-38 Refrigeration Contractor License.

• Hire a company with 5+ years of experience.

• Read their reviews on HomeGuide and Google.

• Get a detailed repair estimate in writing before work starts.

• Don’t give a full payment before the job is complete.

Questions to ask

• How long have you been repairing freezers?

• Can I see your references list?

• What does your minimum service fee include?

• How long will it take to fix my freezer?

• Do you have the replacement part in stock?

• How much will you charge for ordering new parts?

• Which brands do you work on?

• Can I get a labor or parts guarantee?

• Am I in your standard service area, or will I have to pay travel charges?

• Do you offer maintenance plans for my appliances?

• How much extra is an emergency repair?

• Is it cheaper for me to replace this unit instead of repairing it?

• Do you offer financing on expensive repairs or replacements?

• How can I prevent these damages in the future?

• Are all labor, parts, and cleanup fees in this estimate?