Purchasing an appliance is a significant investment for any homeowner. Knowing how long each appliance is expected to last will help you plan for replacements in the future. As with any device, regular maintenance and cleaning of household appliances will help prevent future problems. Let’s look at the average lifespans of home appliances.

If the appliances were in place when you moved in, you may be able to find the manufacture year on the serial number tag which is generally located inside or on the back of the appliance. This information will help you decide whether it’s best to repair or replace an appliance. Depending on the appliance and the problem, sometimes it is cheaper to replace a machine than to make repairs.

Lifespans of Cooking Appliances in Your Home

Among major home appliances, the gas range has the highest average appliance lifespan of between 13 and 15 years. Electric cooktops are expected to last around 12 years. The range hood averages about 14 years before it needs to be replaced.

When compared to other major household appliances, microwaves have the shortest life expectancy. Depending on how often the microwave is used, it can last up to 9 years. The biggest culprit to reducing the lifespan is not cleaning it often enough. Built-up leftover food continues to heat each time the microwave is used. This creates hot spots that damage the machine and it uses more energy to cook the food.

Central Air Conditioning

Central air systems vary but have an average lifespan of about 10 – 15 years. Seasonal checkups with an HVAC professional to clean the ducts and check the compressor helps to keep the unit in good shape. Extend the lifespan with regular maintenance and by routinely changing the air filter.

Water Heater Lifespans

While tankless water heaters may last 20+ years, traditional gas and electric water heaters have a lifespan of between 10 and 12 years. Annual tank flushing and repairing any rusty pipes and valves can help extend the life expectancy of this appliance.

The Refrigerator

A standard refrigerator has an average lifespan of 12 to 15 years. Some can last longer, but because technology is always improving, replacing your aging refrigerator will likely save you money on bills. There are a few signs that it is time to upgrade or repair, like an ongoing buzzing noise, the temperature doesn’t stay consistent, or the cost of running it has increased.

Garbage Disposals Have the Shortest Lifespans of Home Appliances

A well-maintained garbage disposal has a lifespan of about 8 – 10 years. To get the most use out of this device, don’t put things into the disposal that will damage the blades or motor, like oil and grease, bones, fibrous vegetables, nuts, and eggshells. If you’re experiencing frequent clogs or odors, the appliance may be reaching the end of its life.

Laundry Appliances and Their Lifespans

Washers and dryers have a lifespan of around 10 – 12 years. Dryers aren’t as complicated mechanically, so they tend to last a bit longer. Keep your laundry machines clean and regularly remove lint from the lint traps. Wait until you have a full load to use these appliances and you’ll save money on utility bills while extending their lifespans.

Checkpoint Home Inspections offers inspections to customers around the North Coast of Oregon. Contact us to request our services.