Appliance repair is one of the most reliable local service businesses you can start. Every home has a fridge, washer, dryer, oven and dishwasher, and all of them break eventually. When they do, people need help fast and they are ready to pay for it.
Since 2021 I have managed Google Ads for appliance repair companies across the US, Canada, UK and Australia. The same patterns keep showing up. Here is what separates the shops that grow from the ones that struggle.
1. Pick a niche first
Do not try to fix everything on day one. Start with high-demand appliances like refrigerators, washers and dryers, or focus on a few major brands. Specialists earn trust faster and can charge more.
2. Get licensed and insured
Check your local requirements, carry general liability insurance, and look into EPA 608 certification if you will work on refrigeration. Customers and platforms like Google Local Services Ads will ask for proof.
3. Keep startup costs lean
A reliable vehicle, quality tools, a multimeter and a small stock of common parts are enough to begin. Build a relationship with a parts supplier early so you are not waiting days for components.
4. Set clear pricing
Most successful shops charge a diagnostic or service call fee that is credited toward the repair. It filters out non-serious calls and covers your travel time.
5. Set up your Google Business Profile on day one
Most repair calls come from people searching for appliance repair near them on their phone. Add real photos, your service area and hours, and ask every happy customer for a review.
6. Answer every call
It sounds obvious, but missed calls are the biggest leak I see in this industry. A customer with a broken fridge will call the next company within minutes.
7. Use paid ads wisely
Local Services Ads and Google Search campaigns can bring in calls from day one, but only if you track conversions properly, target your real service area and block irrelevant searches like DIY fixes, parts and manuals. Start small, measure your cost per booked job, then scale what works.
8. Build repeat business
Share maintenance tips, follow up after jobs, and partner with property managers, landlords and real estate agents. One good property manager can keep your calendar full.
The bottom line
Skill gets you the first job. Systems get you the next thousand: reviews, fast response and smart marketing.
If you are starting out or already running an appliance repair business, what has been your biggest challenge so far? Leave a comment and I will share what has worked for my clients.