Washing machines: Washing machine parts and spares Washing machine spare parts
For most people, a washing machine is an essential household appliance, so if it develops a problem, getting it fixed quickly is essential.
Because washing machines are fairly complex machines, you’ll often need to call out a plumber or engineer to get your washing machine working perfectly again. However, there are certain bits you can fix yourself - use our washing machine troubleshooting tool to help diagnose your problem and then see our table below to find out how much spare parts typically cost.
If you discover your washing machine can’t be fixed and you need to replace it, make sure you check out our washing machine reviews before splashing out on a new model. We test washing machines on a wide variety of criteria to find out which perform the best, and have found a Best Buy washing machine for under £200.
Washing machine parts
| Common washing machine spare parts and typical costs | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Washing machine part | Typical cost of replacement part | When you might need to replace it | DIY or job for a professional? |
Drum paddles / drum lifters | £10 - £15 each | If the existing paddles are damaged or have broken off | DIY |
Dispenser drawer | £10 - £25 | If the existing drawer is damaged | DIY |
Hoses | £3 - £10 each | If your existing hoses are wearing thin/start leaking | DIY |
Door handle | £5 - £15 | If the existing door handle is broken | DIY |
Door seal | £15 - £35 | If water is leaking from the door of your machine | Professional |
Heating element | £20 - £70 (big difference depending on brand) | If your heating element is broken - may need professional to diagnose | Professional |
Motor pump | £10 - £80 (big difference depending on brand) | If the water won't drain from your machine, and the filter and waste pipe aren't blocked | Professional |
Motor brushes | £10 - £35 | If the machine will turn on but the drum won't spin | Professional |
Table notes
The cost of washing machine spare parts will vary depending on the brand and model number of your washing machine.
Where to buy washing machine spare parts
You can buy spare parts for your washing machine directly from the manufacturer, either over the phone or online.
However, spare parts are also available from a number of spares websites, including Espares (www.espares.co.uk), Partmaster (www.partmaster.co.uk) and UK Whitegoods (shop.ukwhitegoods.co.uk). These websites sell both branded spares, as well as universal parts, which are compatible with multiple washing machine models.
Shopping around for the best deal could help you save money, but it’s important to choose a reputable retailer. Domestic appliance body Amdea recommends customers always choose genuine and approved spare parts made by the manufacturer, otherwise you may invalidate the appliance's guarantee.
Our guides to Hotpoint spares, Hoover spares, Whirlpool spares and Zanussi spares give more information on buying spares for each of these brands. For other washing machine brands, check out our list of washing machine parts contacts. If you are using a washing machine repairer, they will be able to order parts for you.
Replacing a washing machine part
Your washing machine’s make and model should be marked on your washing machine, usually near the controls. You'll need this number if you are replacing a washing machine part yourself, to make sure you get a compatible part.
Whatever part you are replacing, it is essential that you unplug your washing machine first. Depending on what you are replacing, it may also be a good idea to turn off the water supply to your machine. This is particularly important when changing your washing machine’s hoses.
If you decide to have a go at a DIY repair, please remember: safety first. Follow the instructions that come with the spare part and if you are in any doubt of what you are doing, call in a professional.
Calling in a professional
If you need a professional to fix your washing machine, you can find a recommended plumber or appliance repairer in your area by visiting Which? Local – the local trader recommendation website exclusively for Which? Members.
Nearly 3,000 plumbers have been recommended on Which? Local so far, and you can add your own recommendations too.
Repair or replace your washing machine?
While many washing machine faults can be fixed fairly easily, sometimes it may be cheaper to replace your machine rather than repair it. Check with a local repairer before scrapping your washing machine, but bear in mind that you can pick up a Best Buy washing machine for under £200.
If you want to choose a particularly reliable washing machine to avoid problems in the future, check out our washing machine reliability survey to find out which brands are least likely to break down.