No appliance is designed to last forever. But just how many years should you expect to get out of your appliances? It depends a lot on the style, brand and model – as well as how regularly you use the appliance. However, it’s possible to come up with a fairly rough estimate as to how long you can expect each appliance to last.
In this post, we’ll take a look at 10 common appliances in the home and how long they last, from the shortest-lasting appliances to the longest-lasting appliances.
Vacuum Cleaner: 5 to 10 years
Vacuum cleaners are one of the shortest lasting appliances. This is particularly the case if you’re using them daily. If you notice significant loss of suction or a burning smell, it could be a sign that the motor is dying and that it’s time to replace your vacuum. Cordless vacuum cleaners meanwhile often need to be disposed of once the battery stops holding its charge. There are many companies out there that can repair vacuum cleaners, but for some cheaper models it’s often more economical to replace them.
Microwave Oven: 7 to 10 years
Many microwaves rarely last more than a decade – especially if you use them regularly for cooking. You should always replace a microwave if the door is cracked or if the seal is broken, as radiation leaks could make it dangerous to use. If there are grinding noises or food isn’t cooking properly, it’s also a sign to get rid of your microwave. Problems involving buttons and touchscreens tend to also be very challenging to fix and a replacement is often the best call.
Dishwasher: 8 to 12 years
Many dishwashers will run into faults that can be fixed. But after about 12 years, there is likely to be major wear to many different parts. Heavily used dishwashers may only last 8 years. If you’re constantly experiencing leaks, it’s a sure sign you should replace your dishwasher. A broken heating element is also often too expensive to repair. If dishes aren’t getting cleaned properly, check filters and make sure spray arm holes aren’t blocked before thinking about a replacement – these simple fixes are often all that’s necessary.
Washing Machine: 8 to 13 years
Washing machines last a similar amount of time to dishwashers – the mix of water and electricity means that there are a lot of things that can go wrong, and so many washing machines rarely last over 13 years. Frequent breakdowns or leaks are often a sign that it’s time to shop for a new washing machine. You should also be wary of loud, clunking noises, which could be a sign of damaged bearings or other mechanical failures that are expensive to fix. Generally, if total repairs exceed 50% of the value of the washing machine, it’s time to consider a replacement.
Tumble Dryer: 10 to 15 years
Your average dryer rarely lasts over 15 years. If the machine shuts down mid-cycle or clothes are taking forever to dry, it could be a sign that your dryer has come to the end of its life. Loud grinding noises can also often indicate wear to parts which can be very expensive to fix. If parts like drive belts and capacitors break, it may be more economical to repair than replace. As with washing machines, use the 50% rule. To prevent dryers wearing out as quickly, avoid overloading them and regularly clean out lint.
Refrigerator: 10 to 15 years
While some refrigerators have been known to last for decades, most will need replacing after 15 years. Frequent breakdowns are a sign that a fridge is better off being scrapped than fixed. If food is spoiling before its expiration date, this could also be a sign that you need to get a new one. Even if your refrigerator seems to be working well after 15 years, it may be worth considering its energy usage – older fridges can become less efficient and you may be spending huge amounts extra in energy bills by keeping it running.
Electric Oven Range: 13 to 15 years
Electric oven ranges commonly last between 13 and 15 years. You may want to consider replacing this appliance if there is significant rust. If food is not cooking properly, this is also a red flag. Sometimes sensors and broken heating elements are worth fixing if it’s a relatively new or expensive oven. But when it comes to cheap electric oven ranges that are 13 years or older, it’s often not worth fixing any faults.
Gas Oven Range: 15 to 18 years
You’ll often find that gas oven ranges last longer than electric oven ranges simply due to not having as many complex electrical components. Generally speaking, most gas oven ranges won’t last longer than 18 years. If there’s lots of rust or food is taking ages to cook, it’s a sign that you should look into a replacement. Gas leaks are also never a good sign – turn off the main gas valve and hire an appliance technician to take a look.
Air Conditioning Unit: 15 to 20 years
Air conditioning units commonly last between 15 and 20 years before needing to be replaced. If you live in a hot climate, you could find that your unit needs replacing earlier. Common signs it’s time to replace your AC unit include persistent breakdowns, poor cooling or grinding noises. Air conditioning installation service is worth calling out to determine if you need a new unit. It’s worth getting your entire system checked as there could be issues with vents or ducts.
Freezer: 15 to 20 years
Freezers are actually one of the hardiest appliances in the home. This is particularly the case with chest freezers, which have been known to last for decades. After 20 years, most freezers will however be experiencing problems like thawing or excessive ice build-up. Banging and rattling is always a red flag too. Also be wary of high energy bills. Fridge-freezers may need to be replaced sooner as the fridge will often stop working before the freezer.
