FAQ
Appliance Repair Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an appliance repair technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an appliance repair technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about appliance repair technicians
Do appliance technicians need a license?
EPA 608 for refrigerants; some states license repair.
Is the job growing?
BLS projects slow growth.
Can I start my own business?
Many do.
How much does an appliance repair technician make?
The median annual wage for appliance repair technicians was $50,990 ($24.51 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $36,190 and the highest 10% earned more than $80,660.
How long does it take to become an appliance repair technician?
Most people need about A few months to a year of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be an appliance repair technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
Is appliance repair technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +1.9% from 2025–35 (slower than average), with about 2,800 openings each year. Upsides include independent field work; a common challenge is that driving between calls.
What skills does an appliance repair technician need?
Key technical skills include electrical troubleshooting, refrigeration, wiring diagrams, and parts replacement. Employers also value customer service, problem-solving, and honesty.
What certifications are available for appliance repair technicians?
Common credentials include EPA 608 certification, NASTeC certification, Manufacturer training, and Gas appliance training. Technicians who handle refrigerants must hold EPA Section 608 certification.
Still deciding?
Try the Appliance Repair Technician fit quiz, compare with HVAC Technician, or explore Appliance Repair Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9031 (Home appliance repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Home appliance repairers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.