Final answer:
Using the high-low method, the variable maintenance cost has been calculated at $1.40 per machine hour, and the fixed maintenance cost component is $5,220.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question seeks to analyze the fixed and variable components of the maintenance cost provided by Deidoro company. To determine these components, we can use the high-low method where the difference in costs divided by the difference in machine hours will provide the variable cost rate.
First, calculate the difference in costs between the current year and the prior year:
$36,300 - $32,100 = $4,200
Then, calculate the difference in machine hours between the current year and the prior year:
22,200 hours - 19,200 hours = 3,000 hours
Now, divide the cost difference by the hour difference to find the variable cost rate:
$4,200 / 3,000 hours = $1.40 per machine hour.
To find the fixed cost, substitute the variable rate and one set of machine hours and maintenance costs into the equation:
Fixed Cost + Variable Rate (Machine Hours) = Total Maintenance Cost
Fixed Cost + ($1.40 × 19,200) = $32,100
Fixed Cost = $32,100 - ($1.40 × 19,200)
Fixed Cost = $32,100 - $26,880
Fixed Cost = $5,220
Therefore, the fixed maintenance cost is $5,220 and the variable cost is $1.40 per machine hour.