How Much Does It Really Cost To Install These 8 Common Home Appliances?
Whether it was because your old appliance finally kicked the bucket, or you just wanted to upgrade your home, buying a new appliance is something we’ve all had to do at some point. But a lot of folks forget about the cost of installing that new appliance until it shows up on their receipt. That new stove or dishwasher might seem like a good deal, until someone shows up with tools and a massive bill you didn’t budget for. So, before you bring anything home, let’s talk about what the real cost of installation looks like for eight common home appliances.
Dishwasher
A dishwasher might only take up a couple of feet under your counter, but getting it installed properly can cost between $150 and $500. The price depends on how much plumbing and electrical work is needed to get the new dishwasher set up. If you're replacing an old one, it’s usually cheaper. But if you’re starting from scratch or moving things around in your kitchen, expect the cost to be on the higher end. But it’s absolutely worth paying to get it right so you don’t end up with leaks or dangerous wiring.
Refrigerator
If your fridge just slides into place and plugs in, congrats. You’ve dodged one of the bigger installation expenses. But if it has a built-in water line for the ice maker or filtered water, expect to pay an extra $100 to $250 to hook that up properly. And, some older homes don’t have the right connections, which can drive the cost up even higher. So, always ask ahead. Nobody likes being hit with a surprise bill when they’re just trying to keep their food cool.
Washing Machine
Installing a washing machine is usually pretty straightforward, especially if you're just replacing an old one. The average cost ranges from $100 to $300. But sometimes the hookups aren’t compatible, or the floor needs reinforcement if the washer is going on the second floor. And if you’re dealing with one of those fancy new front-loaders, make sure the installer checks the leveling carefully. A wobbly washer can shake a whole house when it gets going.
Dryer
The main thing that changes the cost here is whether you’ve got a gas or electric dryer. Electric tends to be simpler and less expensive to install, usually around $100 to $200. Gas dryers can creep toward $300 or more because of the extra precautions and permits involved with working with gas. Don’t forget the venting setup, either. That little hose in the back seems easy, but if it’s not installed right, it’s a serious fire risk. This is one appliance installation that’s absolutely worth the cost for the peace of mind.
Oven or Range
If you're just swapping from an electric range to a different electric range, the cost can stay under $200. But switching to a gas stove or one that needs special wiring may require permits, inspections, or even cutting into cabinets. Those extra steps can push the total up to $600 or more. Some people try to DIY this one, but unless you're licensed to handle gas lines or high-voltage wiring, this is definitely a job to leave to a pro.
Microwave (Over-the-Range)
Countertop microwaves are easy. Over-the-range models are a completely different story. These usually require both mounting and venting, and can cost $150 to $400 to install. If there’s no existing cabinet cutout or vent setup for the microwave, that can tack on additional costs. It may not seem like a big appliance, but it can be surprisingly tricky to get in there snugly, especially without damaging your cabinets or backsplash.
Garbage Disposal
This one can be sneaky. A garbage disposal might cost just $100 for the unit, but installing it could set you back another $150 to $350, especially if new wiring or plumbing adjustments are needed. If you’ve never had one before, the setup can be more complicated than you’d expect. And if it’s not done right, you’ll know fast when water starts pooling under your sink.
Water Heater
This is one of the pricier installations on this list. A basic tank model might cost $500 to $1,000 for installation, while tankless models can go over $2,000 when you factor in the extra plumbing and venting work they need to have done. Some cities also require permits or inspections, which can slow things down and add to the total cost. This is one of those upgrades where it really pays to get a solid estimate ahead of time.
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A lot of homeowners get surprised by the "hidden" costs of installation. This article isn’t meant to scare you off, but it should help you be prepared. Getting professional help with installation usually means fewer headaches down the road, and you’ll avoid voiding warranties by trying to DIY something that really should’ve been done by a pro. So, when budgeting for that next appliance, remember to think beyond the price tag on the box and expect to pay a little extra.
Bliss Donahue-Power
