Cooker Repair Decision Calculator
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Remember: If the repair cost exceeds 50% of the new cooker price, replacement is usually more economical. Cookers over 12 years old often have obsolete parts that make repair impractical. Energy efficiency matters too - newer models save $100+ per year in electricity costs!
When your cooker suddenly stops heating, the timer glitches, or the oven door won’t close properly, the first thought isn’t always cooker repair-it’s “Should I just buy a new one?” The truth is, most cookers can be repaired, and often at a fraction of the cost of replacement. But not all repairs are worth it. Knowing when to fix it and when to walk away saves money, time, and frustration.
Most cooker problems are fixable
Modern cookers, whether gas or electric, are built with modular parts. That means if one component fails, you don’t need to replace the whole machine. Common issues like a broken heating element, faulty thermostat, or worn door seal are routine fixes. In Wellington, where winters are damp and appliances get heavy use, these problems show up often. A heating element in an electric oven typically lasts 5-10 years. If yours died at year 7, replacing it costs $80-$150 including labor. A new cooker? $1,200 minimum.Gas cookers have their own common failures. Igniters wear out, gas valves get clogged, and thermocouples fail. These aren’t signs the cooker is broken beyond hope-they’re signs it’s due for a service. A technician can clean the burner ports, test gas pressure, and swap a $25 thermocouple in under an hour. I’ve seen 15-year-old gas cookers running perfectly after a simple valve adjustment.
When repair isn’t the smart choice
Not every cooker deserves a second chance. If your unit is over 12 years old, has multiple failing parts, or uses obsolete technology, repair might just be throwing good money after bad. For example, older models with analog controls and mechanical timers are harder to service because parts are discontinued. If the control board is fried and the manufacturer no longer makes it, you’re stuck with a custom-order part that could cost $300+-and still might not fit right.Another red flag: if the cooker has structural damage. Cracked enamel on the oven cavity, rusted internal framing, or warped door hinges aren’t just cosmetic. They affect safety and efficiency. A cracked oven lining can lead to uneven cooking and even fire risk. If the outer casing is corroded from moisture or salt air (common in coastal areas), the whole unit is compromised.
Also consider energy efficiency. A cooker from 2010 uses about 30% more electricity than a new Energy Star-rated model. If your power bills have been creeping up, a new unit might pay for itself in 3-5 years. But if you use your cooker only a few times a week, that math doesn’t add up. Use your usage patterns to guide the decision, not just the age.
What repairs actually cost
Here’s what you can expect to pay for common cooker repairs in New Zealand as of early 2026:| Problem | Part Cost | Labor Cost | Total Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electric oven heating element | $40-$70 | $80-$120 | $120-$190 |
| Gas burner igniter | $30-$60 | $70-$100 | $100-$160 |
| Thermostat replacement | $50-$90 | $80-$130 | $130-$220 |
| Door seal replacement | $25-$50 | $60-$90 | $85-$140 |
| Control board failure | $150-$350 | $100-$150 | $250-$500 |
| Full service (cleaning, testing, minor adjustments) | $0-$30 | $120-$180 | $120-$210 |
Most reputable repair services include a diagnostic fee, but many waive it if you proceed with the repair. Always ask if the quote includes GST and if parts come with a warranty. A good technician will offer at least a 90-day guarantee on labor and a 12-month warranty on parts.
How to find a trustworthy repair technician
Not all appliance repairers are equal. Some are licensed electricians or gas fitters. Others are handymen with a toolkit. For safety and reliability, look for these signs:- They’re registered with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (for electric cookers) or Gas Safe certified (for gas cookers).
- They carry liability insurance. Ask for proof.
- They show up on time and bring the right tools-not just a screwdriver and hope.
- They explain the problem in plain language, not jargon.
- They don’t pressure you into a full replacement unless it’s clearly the better option.
Word of mouth still works best. Ask neighbors, check Facebook community groups, or look for reviews on Google that mention specific models. A technician who’s fixed a Zanussi 5000 series three times this year knows their stuff. Avoid companies that only advertise on billboards or have no online presence.
What to do before calling a repairer
Before you book a service call, do a quick self-check. You might save the diagnostic fee and even fix it yourself.- Check the power supply. Is the cooker plugged in? Has the circuit breaker tripped? Test the outlet with another appliance.
- For gas cookers, make sure the gas valve behind the unit is fully open. Sometimes it gets turned off during cleaning.
- Inspect the oven light. If it’s out, the bulb might be dead-but the oven still works. Replace it with a compatible halogen bulb.
- Listen for clicking. A gas igniter that clicks but doesn’t light means the burner is dirty. Turn off the gas, clean the burner holes with a toothpick, and try again.
- Check the door seal. If it’s cracked or loose, cold air leaks in and the oven struggles to heat. A $30 seal can fix that.
If none of these help, call a pro. But if you’ve ruled out the simple stuff, you’ll save time and get a more accurate diagnosis.
What to do if your cooker is beyond repair
If the repair cost exceeds half the price of a new unit, or if the cooker is over 12 years old, replacement is usually smarter. But don’t just buy the cheapest model on sale. Look for these features:- Energy efficiency rating (A+++ preferred)
- Self-cleaning function (reduces long-term maintenance)
- Programmable timer with delay start
- Brand with good local service support (Bosch, Siemens, Smeg, and Fisher & Paykel all have Kiwi repair networks)
When you buy new, ask if the store takes away your old cooker. Many do for free. If not, contact your local council-they often have free appliance recycling days. Never dump a cooker in the landfill. They contain metals, insulation, and sometimes refrigerants that need proper disposal.
How to make your cooker last longer
A well-maintained cooker can last 15-20 years. Here’s how:- Wipe spills immediately. Acidic foods like tomato sauce can corrode enamel.
- Clean the oven door seal monthly with mild soapy water. A dirty seal causes heat loss.
- Don’t slam the door. It stresses hinges and latches.
- Run a self-clean cycle every 3-6 months if your model has one. It burns off grease buildup.
- Have the gas lines checked every 2 years if you have a gas cooker. Corrosion can creep in unseen.
These small habits cost nothing but add years to your appliance’s life. And if you’re not sure how to clean something, check the manual. Most manufacturers post digital copies online.
Is it worth repairing a 10-year-old cooker?
Yes, if it’s a reliable brand and the issue is a single component like a heating element, thermostat, or igniter. Repairing a 10-year-old cooker typically costs $150-$300, while a new one starts at $1,200. If the unit still heats evenly, has no rust, and isn’t using excessive power, repair makes financial sense.
Can I repair my cooker myself?
Simple fixes like replacing a bulb, cleaning burners, or swapping a door seal are safe for DIY. But never open the control panel, touch gas lines, or replace wiring unless you’re a licensed technician. Electricity and gas are dangerous. A mistake can cause fire, explosion, or electrocution. If you’re unsure, call a pro.
How long does a cooker repair usually take?
Most repairs take 1-2 hours. If the part needs ordering, it could take 2-5 days. Technicians usually give a 2-hour window for visits. Same-day service is rare unless it’s an emergency. Plan ahead-don’t wait until Christmas Eve to fix your oven.
Do all repair services offer warranties?
Reputable ones do. Look for at least 90 days on labor and 12 months on parts. If a company won’t guarantee their work, walk away. Cheap services often cut corners. A warranty means they stand by their fix. Always ask for a written receipt that includes warranty terms.
What’s the most common reason cookers stop working?
The top three are: 1) Failed heating element (electric), 2) Faulty igniter (gas), and 3) Broken thermostat. These account for over 70% of repair calls. They’re all fixable and relatively inexpensive to replace. If your cooker is under 10 years old, one of these is likely the culprit.
