If your refrigerator isn’t cooling as it should, or you hear a squeak from the back that you can’t explain, it’s time to call a refrigerator repair service. Choosing the right professional can make all the difference in your fridge’s performance and how much you pay for repairs. Before you hire a refrigerator repair technician, do some homework. Ask friends and neighbors for recommendations and browse the online reviews of appliance companies in your area.

Often, the cost of a refrigerator repair depends on the part and labor involved. Many professionals charge by the hour, while others may offer a flat rate for the entire repair. The type of refrigerator you have can also affect the repair costs. For example, side-by-side refrigerators are typically easier to fix than bottom-freezer models.

It’s always a good idea to ask a refrigerator repair professional about their pricing structure before hiring them. You’ll want to know what their typical charges are for the most common issues such as a door seal replacement, a drainpipe replacement and a new thermostat.

Some professionals will include a diagnostic fee as well, which can range from $70 to $120. This will help them figure out what the issue is and how to fix it. You can also try running your own fridge diagnostics by contacting the manufacturer’s customer service. These tests can be as simple as connecting the fridge to your home’s WiFi and transmitting a series of codes that customer service can translate into data on the refrigerator’s problem. refrigerator repair service