SERVICE FEES: Something’s wrong

The element went out in my oven, so I called a few places to have it replaced. I understand an $80 service call, but feel that if you have the company fix the problem, the $80 should be applied to the cost of repairs. If you decline to have it fixed, the $80 should still go to that company.

A $52 part cost me $230 for a 25-minute job (didn’t even have to cut power).

I am a senior citizen on a fixed income and that money I spent on repairs really put a damper on the upcoming holidays. The burner (big one) on my stove needs a new switch also, but I can’t afford to have it replaced so I’ll live with having only the small ones.

CAROLYN WILLIAMS

Coeur d’Alene