Although the number of home appliances and power tools in use is expected to increase as the number of households and businesses grows and new and improved appliances and tools are introduced, increasing use of electronic parts such as solid-state circuitry, microprocessors, and sensing devices in appliances reduce the frequency of repairs. Nevertheless, prospects should continue to be good for well-trained repairers, particularly those with a strong background in electronics. Most people with the electronics training needed to repair appliances go into other repairer occupations. Employment is relatively steady because the demand for appliance repair services continues even during economic downturns. Earnings of home appliance and power tool repairers vary widely according to skill level, geographic location, and the type of equipment serviced.
Trainees usually earn less and senior technicians more.
Earnings tend to be highest in large firms and for those servicing gas appliances. Repairers are compensated when working overtime, weekends, or holidays. Many receive commission in addition to their hourly wage salary. Many larger dealers and service stores offer benefits such as health insurance coverage, sick leave, and retirement and pension programs. Some home appliance and power tool repairers belong to the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.