Shopping for appliances can be a pain, and that’s not even mentioning the trouble of having them installed and having old appliances hauled away. Most homeowners do not want to go through this hassle more often than they need to.
This is why most homeowners want to know how long their appliances will last. This is especially true since you are investing in these appliances and you want to know you are getting your money’s worth.
In this short guide, we will look at how long you can expect some common household appliances to last. So, if you have been wondering how long does a refrigerator last or how long does an electric range last, we are here to help answer these questions.
What Manufacturers Say About Appliance Life Expectancy
When you are shopping for appliances, you want to do your research and find out how long each manufacturer claims their product will last. This information can vary greatly from one to the other.
In general though, manufacturers agree that most major household appliances should last about 10 years. This estimate can be greatly affected by how much the appliance is used and how it is used. Beware of companies that don’t advertise a lifespan, and you should also beware of companies that make ridiculous claims of long life.
Remember, the manufacturer might exaggerate a bit. It is better to research specific brands and see what users have to say in reviews. You should also remember that just because a manufacturer says 10 years, doesn’t mean that is 10 years with zero problems.
Most major appliances need maintenance or repairs after five years. Appliance lifespan is really referring to how long the appliance will keep running even after repairs.
Here is a run down of the average lifespan of the major household appliances:
- Stove: 10+ years
- Washer: 7-12 years
- Dryer: 5-7 years
- Fridge: 7 years
- Microwave: 6 years
Should I Consider an Extended Warranty?
If you want to get the best return on your investment, you might want to consider purchasing an extended warranty. The appliance will come with a standard two-year warranty. You will also have the option to purchase an additional extended warranty. Whether you should purchase this is a personal choice based on your tolerance for risk.
Again, this is where it is helpful to do research, read reviews, and ask your friends and family members about their experiences with their appliances.
Another thing you should consider is the price of the warranty. If the warranty itself is more expensive than average repairs, it might not be a good choice.
Appliance Use and Maintenance
One huge factor that will affect the lifespan and usefulness of your appliances is how you use them and how you maintain them. There are best practices when it comes to household appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and stoves.
When you do not follow best practices, you will cause early wear and tear on the appliance. When appliances are abused or misused, you can expect more repairs and a shorter lifespan. Be sure to learn how to use appliances properly to avoid this.