How Long Should Kitchen Appliances Last?

Appliance Health In Your Home

Appliances that are in good working order contribute to a well-functioning household — until they don't. Routine maintenance and the elapsed time since installation are often overlooked when these expensive workhorses are taken for granted. This can shorten the lifespan of your appliances and force you to buy a new one before you're ready financially.

As a side note, electronic-controlled appliances have significantly reduced the lifespan of most major appliances over the past 25 years. This is primarily due to the extra features these appliances come with. Alternatively, you can repair the older appliance, which is often cost-effective.

Once it is repaired, it may be able to run for as long as a newer model would be expected to. Moreover, spending more time at home in recent years may also contribute to the shortening life expectancies of appliances. Listed here are the average lifespans of the most common home appliances.

Major Appliances Expected Lifespans

There is no better time than now to keep your major appliances in good working order for as long as possible in light of rising appliance costs and increased environmental awareness. Refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines, dryers, and other household appliances are more durable than ever, so you can count on them to last for many years to come.

To get the most from your appliances, it's essential to know how long they should last and how often you should replace them.

Gas Ovens

Most gas ovens have a lifespan of 15 years or more if they are appropriately cared for. Generally speaking, gas ovens are long-lasting and simple to maintain.

• Warm water and a mild detergent are ideal for cleaning the grate regularly.
• You should never use abrasives on the top or grates of a gas oven.
• Toothpicks, for example, should never be inserted into the holes in the burners because they can break off. This could cause damage or a malfunction to the components.

Electric Ranges

Even though they're not as durable as gas ovens, electric stoves can last for up to 13 years.

• Using metal drip bowls on the oven will protect it from spills and make it easier to clean.
• You or a professional should clean the electric elements with a sponge and non-abrasive cleaner every few months.
• Warm water and a sponge are all you need to clean the top of the electric oven after the elements, drip bowls, and dials have been removed.

Oven Hoods / Exhaust Fans

If you regularly take care of your kitchen appliances, you can expect them to last at least 14 years.

• The hood bears the brunt of the cooking grease and food splatter. With a sponge and mild detergent, wash both the top and the inside with hot water and a sponge.
• Attention to the filter is essential; it needs to be cleaned frequently. Soaking the metal filter in hot, soapy water and then rinsing it under cold water will dissolve any grease on it.
• Make sure the ducts are clear.

Clothes Dryers

The average life expectancy of most clothes dryers is 13 years, regardless of whether they are electric or gas.

• Clear the screen and the vent leading to the outside of any debris. Dryers are exacerbated by lint, fibre, and dust clogs.
• Drying soiled clothing is never a good idea.
• Only use a soft cloth and a mild cleaning agent to scrub the dryer drum's interior.
• Either you or a professional can use a sponge and warm water to clean the dryer's exterior.

Air Conditioners

Is your air conditioner getting older? If so, you should begin planning to purchase a new one. This may seem obvious, but unlike furnaces, air conditioners spend a lot of time outdoors, where they are subjected to constantly fluctuating temperatures. Older air conditioners have a lifespan of 10-12 years, while more modern models can last up to 20 years.

Various factors can affect how well your air conditioner performs, including how well you've taken care of it over the years. Your air conditioner's lifespan could be cut short if you fail to have it serviced on a yearly basis. Additionally, how frequently you use the unit, where you live, and whether or not the unit was correctly sized for your home can all have an impact on its lifespan.

If you take proper care of your air conditioner, you should only have to buy a new one in 10 to 15 years. The mechanical parts of your air conditioner may become obsolete or unavailable as it ages. You must purchase a new unit in the event that you cannot replace a broken part.

Refrigerators

Even though refrigerators run 24 hours a day, they can still expect to last for up to 13 years despite their constant use.

• To keep the air intake at the bottom of the refrigerator clear of dust and other debris, vacuum it on a regular basis. Having a clogged air intake can lead to premature compressor failure.
• Use a mild cleaner and a soft microfibre cloth to clean the rubber door gaskets regularly.
• To avoid a water spill, keep an eye on the drain pan at the base of the refrigerator. Remove the pan, drain the water, and then use a sponge and soapy water to clean it.

Water Heaters

Today's water heaters are more efficient than older models, but they still need to be maintained regularly to extend their lifespans. When considering a water heater lifespan in residential and commercial settings, newer water heaters are more energy-efficient.

However, they still need to be serviced on a regular basis to ensure that they last as long as possible. A gas water heater can last between 8 and 12 years, and an electric water heater can last between 10 and 15 years with regular inspection, draining, and flushing.

Garbage Disposals

Garbage disposal systems reduce food waste to a particular size that can be easily flushed down the drain. Garbage disposals can last as little as eight years because of the strain put on the motor. However, garbage disposals can last up to 12 years with regular maintenance.

• Either you or an expert should clean out the bottom of the garbage disposal regularly. Before clearing the disposal, always unplug it.
• Do not put fibrous foods like pumpkin or celery, eggshells, and bones in the garbage disposal.
• Ensure the disposal is securely attached to the countertop by checking the screws that hold it in place. If the screws are loose, use a manual screwdriver or a cordless drill to tighten them.

Freezers

A stand-alone freezer can last up to 11 years when properly cared for.

• You can make use of dish soap and water to clean the inside and outside of the freezer a few times a year, making sure to rinse the soap off with clean water.
• The coils in the back of the freezer should be vacuumed clean of dust and lint.
• The recommended temperature for the freezer is -17 degrees Celsius. Typically, this temperature ranges from -17 to -15 degrees Celsius.

Washing Machines

Expect your washing machine to last for up to ten years at the very least. To ensure that your washing machine lasts as long as possible, you must keep a close eye on its performance.

• Ensure that your clothing is evenly distributed throughout the drum.
• Keep the drain line free of obstructions at all times.
• You or a professional should clean washing machine drums regularly.

Microwaves

For the most part, microwaves can last for up to nine years.

• Wipe the microwave's interior often to remove food splatters.
• Use a sink to wash the carousel tray. To ensure a smooth carousel rotation, clean the area beneath it.
• Only use the microwave when food or liquids are inside; never use it if it is empty.

Dishwashers

To ensure a 9 to 10-year lifespan, you or a professional must clean dishwashers regularly.

• Stacking plates and utensils correctly can be found in your dishwasher's instruction manual.
• Maintain a clean and well-tended area at the bottom of the dishwasher to ensure proper drainage.
• Make sure the air vent in your dishwasher is always clear and clean.

Checklist For Old Appliance Repairs

Large appliances that are nearing or at the end of their expected life span necessitate more careful consideration when it comes to repairs. Think about:

• How long will it take to fix this? If it's just a year or two, you may be wasting your time and cash.
• Besides that, what else is there to consider? Even after you replace one part, another one may fail soon after.
• How long will spare parts be available and operating systems be supported?
• What are the logistical difficulties? Does your home have the capability of undergoing repair?
• Will delivery fees be imposed on purchases? To get the parts, how long will you have to wait?
• Disposing of an old appliance that isn't quite dead can have an environmental impact, but consider the environmental advantages of a newer, more efficient appliance.
• Technology advancements you'll enjoy and benefit from are likely to be included in new products.
• To determine whether or not it's cost-effective to repair an old appliance, you can calculate the remaining value (RV) of the appliance. You can estimate residual value by dividing a product's purchase price by its expected lifespan. Now do the math and multiply this new number by the number of years you anticipate the appliance will last. When an appliance's residual value exceeds its repair costs, it makes sense to repair it.

Five Things To Do Before Calling A Repairman

Even before any repairs are done, service calls for major appliances can be expensive, so it's worth looking into a simple solution before calling in the repairman:

• It's a cliché method, but try turning it off and on again.
• Consult the troubleshooting section in the appliance's owner manual
• Try looking in the "support" section of the manufacturer's website.
• Look up the problem on the internet (others may have had the same issue and found a solution). However, never attempt any extensive repair work yourself.
• Get in touch with the company's customer service department via phone, email, or social media.

Tips To Prevent Premature Failure Of Appliances

Read your appliance owner's manual

The great news is that there are methods to extend the life of your appliance and avoid premature breakdowns. The first thing to remember is that you should read your appliance's instruction manual. Owner's manuals contain instructions on using, cleaning, and maintaining a product.

Maintaining an appliance's lifespan is made easier with this handy guide, which outlines easy steps to take to keep it in good working order for as long as possible. A simple task such as forgetting to clean your refrigerator's coils can lead to a buildup of dust and other debris. Excessive wear and tear can result from the appliance working harder to maintain the desired temperature.

Service your appliances regularly

In addition, you should think about having your appliances serviced regularly. Having your appliance inspected by a qualified technician can help you catch minor issues before they become major ones and cause a cascade failure. Preventative maintenance can also be performed as part of routine maintenance, saving you money on repairs in the future.

If it still has some life, repair it

Finally, if an issue arises, don't throw away your appliance right away. A technician can fix a specific problem if the appliance has not yet reached its average lifespan. By repairing the issue, you can keep your appliance running for its entire lifespan.

An expert in home appliance repair can provide a long-term solution to any problems with your appliances. A qualified technician can assist you with any appliance repairs and give you advice on extending the life of your appliances.

Why Regular Appliance Maintenance Is Vital

In our daily lives, we rely heavily on our appliances. Many of them are essential to our daily lives, and we can't imagine life without them. Appliances are often taken for granted by homeowners, which is a shame. It isn't until they break that people give them much thought.

Repairs following a significant appliance failure can be expensive, and you can often avoid them. Your appliances need to be serviced regularly. Among the many reasons:

Efficiency

You can save some money on your utility bills by keeping your appliances in good working order. Cracked-open refrigerators waste a lot of energy trying to keep their temperature stable. Dirty filters and partially clogged exhaust vents affect the function to dry your clothes as quickly. So, to dry your clothes, you have to run the dryer for a longer time. This wastes energy and raises your monthly utility costs.

Wear and Tear

Your appliances will last longer if you take care of them. In addition to wasting a lot of energy, unmaintained appliances also wear out more quickly. Because it has to work harder and hotter than before, a clogged dryer frequently fails prematurely. Owner's manuals should be used as a guide, and you should always follow the instructions therein. Doing so will extend the life of the machine.

Home Safety

Keep your home and property safe by maintaining your appliances. Your kitchen could be flooded if your dishwasher isn't draining correctly. Your entire family can become ill if your refrigerator is running too hot. A dryer with a clogged exhaust duct can cause severe damage to your home. Prevent property damage from appliances by keeping them well-maintained.

Hire A Repairman

These are just a few of the reasons that regular appliance maintenance is vital in your home. Hiring a repairman trained for this issue will save you a lot of money, for it will not just make the lifespan of your appliances longer but also make them safer for your family to use. They save you money by helping you avoid expensive replacements for your appliances.