Cost to Replace Heating Element – What You’ll Really Pay

If your oven isn’t heating, your dryer is taking forever, or your water heater runs cold, the culprit is often a bad heating element. The big question most homeowners ask is, “How much will it cost to replace a heating element?” The answer isn’t a one‑size‑fits‑all number, but you can get a solid estimate by looking at the type of appliance, the part itself, and whether you DIY or hire a pro.

Typical Price Ranges by Appliance

Oven heating element: A standard electric oven element runs between £40 and £120. If you need a specialty element (like a convection or grill element), the price can climb to £150‑£200. Labor adds another £60‑£120, so a full replacement usually lands in the £100‑£250 range.

Dryer heating element: Most tumble dryers use a simple coil that costs £30‑£80. Labor for a dryer is quicker than for an oven, often £40‑£80. Expect a total bill of £70‑£160.

Water heater element: Electric water heater elements are bulkier and range from £50 to £150. Because the job often involves turning off the breaker and draining the tank, labor can be £80‑£150. Overall cost sits between £130‑£300.

These figures are averages for the Bridgewater area; prices can shift if you have a high‑end brand or need a hard‑to‑find part.

Factors That Can Drive the Cost Up or Down

Brand and model: Premium brands like Bosch or Miele use proprietary parts that cost more. Generic brands usually have cheaper, interchangeable elements.

Age of the appliance: Older models might need additional work to access the element or replace worn wiring, adding time and parts.

DIY vs. professional: If you’re comfortable with basic electrical work, buying the part and installing it yourself can save £80‑£150. Always turn off power at the breaker and follow the manufacturer’s safety guide.

Emergency service: Call‑outs after hours or on weekends often carry a premium. Plan ahead to avoid the extra charge.

Location: Travel fees vary, but most local services in Bridgewater charge a flat £20‑£30 for a standard call-out.

Bottom line: expect to spend anywhere from £70 for a simple dryer coil to £250 for a full oven element swap, with water heaters landing in the middle. Knowing these ranges helps you avoid surprise invoices.

Want to keep costs low? Start by checking the appliance’s warranty – some elements are covered for the first few years. Next, compare a few part numbers on local supplier sites; you’ll often find the same element for less if you shop around. Finally, if you decide to hire a pro, ask for a written breakdown of parts and labor before they start. Clear communication prevents hidden fees.

Whether you DIY or call in a technician, understanding the typical cost to replace a heating element puts you in control. You’ll know what a fair price looks like and can make an informed decision that gets your appliance back in working order without breaking the bank.