Lifespan of Common Household Appliances

Published On: October 5, 2016Categories: Plumbing

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Are you trying to decide whether or not it is time to replace a home appliance? This can be a difficult and costly decision, but it is also necessary to consider in order to keep your home safe. Trust us, you aren’t the only person staring at your aging refrigerator and wondering, “How long is this actually supposed to last?” We have put together a list of the average lifespan of common household appliances to help you out!’

Refrigerator, 14-19 years

Most side-by-side refrigerator and freezer combination appliances last for around 14 years while models with the freezer on top can last for about 17 years. The top end of 19 years holds true for single door refrigerator units, but these are rarely used these days.

Water Heater, 10-25 years

This lifespan of this appliance depends on the type of water heater in your home. Highly efficient tankless water heaters can last for over two decades. Meanwhile, traditional water heaters typically only last for around 10 years. The type of water impacts water heater efficiency as well as the lifespan. Water heaters with treated, soft water will typically last longer.

Stove, 13-15 years

Gas stoves usually last a few years longer than electric ones. If you regularly and carefully check the burners and clean the stove, it will last longer.

Dishwasher, 9 years

If you purchase  a fancy, expensive dishwasher for your home, this does not automatically mean that it will have a longer lifespan than a different model. The more features that a dishwasher has, the more chance there is for those features to break. Maintaining your dishwasher will help make it last longer.

Garbage Disposal, 10 years

The lifespan of your garbage disposal ultimately depends on how often it is used. The garbage disposal of a large family that eats at home will need to be replaced sooner than the garbage disposal of someone living alone who usually eats out. Always run water while using your disposal to make it last longer.

Figuring out the lifespan of your household appliances is important. We hope that you now have a better understanding of when you should consider replacing your appliances! If you notice that any of your appliances are leaking or having a problem, give us a call and we would be happy to check out the issue.

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