Microwaves are generally cheap enough to replace that repair only makes financial sense in specific situations — mainly when you have a quality built-in model or a high-end countertop unit. A basic countertop microwave can be replaced for £50–£80, making a £70 repair call questionable. But for integrated kitchen microwaves or quality brands, repair makes much more sense.
Average UK labour and parts costs — always get multiple quotes from local engineers.
A microwave should last 7–10 years with normal use. Built-in integrated models often last longer (10–15 years) as they're less prone to being moved and knocked around. Cheap countertop models may only last 3–5 years.
For basic countertop microwaves worth under £100, repair rarely makes financial sense — you're close to or above the replacement cost. For built-in or integrated models (£200–£600+), repair is almost always worth it. The magnetron (the part that generates microwave energy) is the most expensive component — if that fails on a cheap model, replace it.
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The type of microwave you own is the biggest factor in whether repair makes sense. Countertop microwaves (£50–£150) are the most common in UK kitchens and are generally cheap enough to replace when they fail. Built-in or integrated microwaves (£200–£600) are fitted into kitchen cabinetry and designed to match other appliances — replacing them means finding an exact-fit model, which makes repair much more attractive. Combination microwaves (£150–£400) offer grill and convection oven features alongside standard microwave cooking. These are pricier to replace and more complex, but their additional components also create more potential failure points. If your microwave is integrated into a fitted kitchen, always explore repair before assuming replacement is the only option.
Microwaves are one of the most energy-efficient cooking methods available. A typical 800W microwave uses roughly 50% less energy than a conventional oven for the same reheating task. Under current UK energy prices, running a microwave for 15 minutes costs around 5–7p, compared to 15–20p for a full-size oven. Since 2024, UK microwaves carry EU-derived energy labels to help consumers compare efficiency. If your current microwave is over 10 years old, newer models may offer improved standby power consumption — modern microwaves draw less than 1W in standby, while older models can draw 3–5W continuously. Over a year, this seemingly small difference adds up. The running cost of a microwave is so low that energy savings alone rarely justify replacement, but it's a useful bonus when you do upgrade.
Depends on the microwave. For budget countertop models (£50–£80 to replace), repair is rarely worth it. For built-in or integrated microwaves (£200–£600+), repair is almost always better value. Door switch faults (£40–£80) are worth fixing on most models.
Microwave repairs in the UK cost £20–£150 depending on the fault. Simple fixes like fuses and door switches are at the cheap end. Magnetron replacements at £80–£150 are only worth it on quality or integrated models.
Microwaves typically last 7–10 years. Built-in models tend to last longer. Heavy commercial use (hospitality, offices) reduces lifespan significantly.
A microwave that's completely dead is usually a blown fuse or failed door switch — both cheap fixes. A microwave that runs but doesn't heat is typically a magnetron failure, which is more expensive and may only be worth fixing on higher-end models.
Repair cost estimates are UK averages sourced from Checkatrade, Which?, and MyBuilder. Prices include labour and VAT. Always get at least two quotes from qualified tradespeople before proceeding with any repair.
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