Knowing how long things last helps you plan, budget, and avoid being caught off guard. Here is what to expect from the appliances you rely on.
Typical lifespans
Refrigerators last about thirteen years, dishwashers and washers around ten, dryers thirteen, and ovens fifteen or more. A water heater runs eight to twelve years, and an HVAC system fifteen to twenty.
How to get more years
Most appliances fail early from neglect, not age. Clean the refrigerator coils, do not overload the washer, clear the dryer lint every load, and replace filters on schedule.
Write the install date somewhere on each major appliance. Knowing the age makes every repair-or-replace decision easier.
Keep them running
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Common questions
Is it worth repairing an old appliance?
If it is past three quarters of its expected life and the repair is more than half the replacement cost, replacement is usually smarter.
What kills appliances fastest?
Skipped maintenance, overloading, and dirty filters or coils.
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