If you are like most homeowners, you may be looking for ways to save money when it comes to keeping the major appliances in your home in working order. In the past when you have replaced one of your appliances, have you wondered if you had gotten your money’s worth out of it or if there was something that you could have done differently to prolong its useful life?
Refrigerator
Depending upon the type of model you own, its average lifespan may vary between 13 to 19 years. The most common models, the side-by-side and the freezer-on-top will usually last about 14 and 17 years, respectively. Common small repairs such as replacing door gaskets, fans or broken icemakers may occur, but they usually do not warrant replacing the refrigerator. However, if its compressor breaks down, you are often better off purchasing a new refrigerator. You can help prolong the life of your refrigerator by making sure to vacuum around its coils at least once a year to prevent overheating.
Dishwasher
Out of all the major appliances in your home, your dishwasher can really take a beating, especially if you have a large family. Most dishwashers will have a lifespan of 9 years if properly maintained. One thing to keep in mind when purchasing this appliance is that the more features it has, the more things there are to break on it. You can help prolong its life by regularly cleaning its filter, replacing water hoses every five years, and having it serviced when small repairs are needed.
Oven/Stove
Most oven/stoves will last between 13 and 15 years. Those that use natural gas will often last longer than electric models. A typical repair that does not warrant purchasing a new appliance is having the oven’s igniter replaced. However, if the oven is leaking gas or requires the replacement of an electronic control board, it may be time to consider replacing instead of repairing. You can help prolong the life of your oven/stove by cleaning it often and not putting off small repairs when needed.
Washer/Dryer
Like your dishwasher, your washer and dryer is likely to take a beating if you have a large family or do many loads of laundry a week. In many cases, a washer can last between 10 – 14 years, while a dryer may last between 10 – 13 years. It is important to clean the filters on both often and have repairs made as needed to get the longest life out of these appliances. Common repairs for these major appliances include replacing gaskets, hoses, belts, and pilot lights for gas dryers.
When you purchase a new appliance, you are making an investment in your home, and like any investment, you will want to know how long you can expect it to last. Regular maintenance of the major appliances in your home can help prolong their lives and help to continue a return on your investment.