When a major appliance breaks, most people are caught off-guard and have to scramble for the funds to buy a new one. You use your appliances regularly, and living without your fridge or stove for a period of time is not an option. In this article, we take a look at the expected lifespans of major appliances so you can start budgeting for when you’ll need to replace them.

Lifespans of Major Appliances

Refrigerators

When your home’s fridge stops working, it can feel like an emergency. All the food inside will spoil if it’s not kept cold, but you might not be prepared to spend over a thousand dollars on a new one. A standard size refrigerator has a life expectancy of about 13 years, and compact models should last about 9 years.

If your refrigerator is over a decade old, it’s time to start preparing to replace it. The good news is that you can buy a new ENERGY STAR® model that may use up to 15% less energy than your old refrigerator.

Ranges

Like a fridge, an electric range has a life expectancy of 13 years and a gas range beats it by a couple of years at 15 years. The hood above is supposed to last about 14 years.

Dishwashers:

Having a dishwasher saves you a lot of water and time over handwashing your dishes. A dishwasher lasts for an average of 9 years, but like refrigerators, there are ENERGY STAR® models that will save significant water and power. When you get a new dishwasher, invest in an efficient model for long term savings.

Lifespans of Washing Machines and Dryers

A washing machine usually lasts around a decade. By only washing full loads and replacing cracked hoses, you can extend its life. Dryers tend to have a slightly longer lifespan at 13 years. Cleaning the lint filter before or after every use can prolong the dryer’s life by helping it run more efficiently.

Know the Lifespans of Major Appliances to Avoid Surprises

When you know the lifespans of major appliances, replacing them won’t be a surprise. You may even budget to replace them before they break at an inconvenient time. By replacing aging appliances with Energy Star models, you can save energy and reduce your utility bills.

Carolina Homechek serves Greater Charlotte with home inspection services. Contact us to schedule an appointment.