Lifespans of Home Appliances Vary Widely

Your kitchen, laundry room, and other rooms in your home are furnished with major appliances that you probably use every day, and you generally only replace these appliances when they break. But just how long can you expect your major household appliances to last? Here’s a look at the lifespans of home appliances.

1. Refrigerator

Most refrigerators can be expected to last for around 13 years and more compact models may only last 9 years. When it comes to replacing this appliance, sooner may be better. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that newer refrigerators use a lot less energy, so you could end up saving money on your utility bills by replacing your old one.

2. Stoves Have Long Lifespans of Home Appliances

A gas stove has the highest lifespan of home appliances, at about 15 years. Electric ranges can last for around 13 years. Range hoods installed over your stove last for around 14 years.

3. Freezers

Some homeowners own a freezer separate from the one in their refrigerator. Chest freezers can have a lifespan of 14-17 years. To maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your freezer, it’s recommended that you defrost it and clean it on a regular basis.

4. Microwaves Have the Shortest Lifespans of Home Appliances

The microwave probably has the shortest lifespan of home appliances. Most can be expected to last somewhere between 5 to 10 years.

5. Dishwashers

Dishwashers typically have to be replaced every 9 years. Like some other home appliances, newer dishwashers are much more energy-efficient and can save you money on water and electricity.

6. Washers

A washing machine usually lasts an average of 10 years. You can increase the lifespan of your washer by only running it when you have a full load of laundry. This not only saves you water and energy, but it also reduces the amount of wear and tear on the machine because you won’t run it as often.

7. Dryers

Dryers tend to last a bit longer than washers. They have an average lifespan of 13 years. Regularly cleaning the lint out of your ducts and lint filter will increase your dryer’s lifespan and help it run most efficiently.

No home appliance lasts forever, but these average lifespans of home appliances can give you an idea of how long you may have until you need to replace them. Performing proper maintenance and upkeep can increase the expected lifespan of your home appliances.

VA Inspect provides home inspections to Central and Southern Virginia. Contact us to schedule an inspection.