While most of our appliances may not last as long as they used to, they can still have a long and useful life. But how long do appliances last nowadays? Most run for about ten years with proper maintenance. Learn the average appliance lifespan for your kitchen and laundry workhorses and how to extend their lives with the right use and care.
Your Questions Answered: How Long Do Appliances Last and How to Maximize Their Lifespan
How long does a refrigerator last? What can I do to extend the life of my washer? Answering how long do appliances last can seem straightforward, but there are variables that can affect their lifespans. We’ll cover how to maximize their life and how to know when it’s time to repair or replace them.
What is the Average Life of Appliances?
Though most generally last about ten years, the type of appliance can also dictate the length of its lifespan. How long do appliances last if used every day? Those we use on a daily basis may break down sooner than those we use less frequently.
Here’s the average appliance life expectancy of common machines:
- Refrigerators: 10-12 years. Your fridge may be on the way out if the motor starts running longer and noisier than usual. It may also struggle to maintain its temperature or produce extra condensation on its surfaces.
- Dishwashers: 10-13 years. Proper use and care is essential to maintain this appliance. Some can last longer if not used daily.
- Ovens and ranges: 10-15 years. Gas ovens and ranges tend to have fewer components, possibly extending their lifespan.
- Washers: 10-13 years. Though front-loaders are more efficient, top-loaders tend to last longer and have less mold and buildup-related problems.
- Dryers: 10-13 years. This simple appliance may last even longer if not used every day and with regular cleanings.
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Appliance
How long do appliances last when cared for correctly? Regular cleanings and proper use and care can maximize their lifespan.
Follow these tips to extend your appliance lifespans:
- Refrigerators: Keeping your fridge at a steady temperature between 36-40℉ can help it run most efficiently. Meanwhile, keeping it neat and tidy by cleaning up spills and avoiding overcrowding can also extend its lifespan. Cleaning goes beyond just the interior, though. Be sure to clean condenser coils at least once a year for maximum efficiency.
- Dishwashers: Monthly cleanings of the interior, filter, and spray arms will keep mildew, clogs, and drain problems at bay. Knowing how to clean a dishwasher can help you avoid future issues.
- Ovens and ranges: Clean gas burner ports regularly with a straightened paperclip to eliminate blockages that cause malfunctions.
- Washers: If your front-load washer smells like mold, it requires cleaning. Monthly cleanings of the tub and gasket can prevent smelly mold buildup and keep your washer functioning optimally.
- Dryers: Keeping your dryer clean involves more than emptying the lint filter after each use. Clean clogged dryer vents annually with an appliance brush or vacuum hose attachment to extend the life of your dryer and avoid repairs.
Is it Better to Repair or Replace?
Even the most well-maintained appliances can break down sometimes. But how do you know if it needs to be replaced or repaired? While these tips can help inform your purchase, there are some things to think about before buying.
Here’s what to consider when deciding whether to repair or replace an appliance:
- Cost: If the cost to repair is more than half of what the appliance is worth, it’s probably better to replace it.
- Age: Is your appliance reaching the end of its lifespan, or has it even gone beyond it? In the event of a malfunction, it can be more cost-effective to replace it rather than risk back-to-back repair and replacement costs.
- Efficiency: New appliances require some money upfront. But, if your current appliances are over 15 years old, a newer, more efficient model could save you money in yearly utility costs.
The team at Just-In Time Appliance specializes in high-quality repairs. Give our expert team of technicians a call today to diagnose and repair your appliance!
