Most people are ignorant about the appliances in their household. We’re all guilty of using something until it breaks, ignoring that maintenance is important and can ensure the appliances run effectively, for longer. How long are appliances supposed to last, and what can you do to increase their lifespan?
These are the average lifespans of many of your most commonly used household appliances.
Refrigerators
A new refrigerator has an average lifespan of fifteen years. However, some models of refrigerators may last longer. To ensure you get the longest lifespan, regularly vacuum the air intake that is located at the base of the appliance. This clears it of debris and dust that can clog it and cause issues. If the air intake is clogged, the refrigerator can experience premature failure due to an overworked compressor.
Stove/Ovens
Stoves/Ovens also have an average lifespan of fifteen years. Even though they are designed to run for long periods of time, they still run into problems as they increase in age. The best method of ensuring that your oven will last is to clean it frequently. Proper cleaning is easily done by wiping off spilled food or liquids and clearing out the grease buildup in the oven. This not only increases its lifespan but also for more energy efficiency. Oven coated in grease will use more energy because the caked-on grease will absorb the heat being provided to the cooking area.
Washers and Dryers
The average lifespan of a washing machine and dryer, depending on how often they are used, is twelve years. As always, they can last longer if they are properly maintained. For washers, it is important to keep the clothes in the drum evenly dispersed to prevent it from falling off balance. You should also ensure the drainage line is clear and clean.
In dryers, it is crucial to clean the inner and outer parts of the dryer to remove dirt and debris that can commonly build up (especially in basements). The most important thing you can do is clean the vent in the dryer it and the line that runs out of the house. Blocked dryer vents are a fire hazard that will damage far more than the dryer itself.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers have an average lifespan of ten to fifteen years. To get the most out of your dishwasher, clean and ensure that the air vents are clear. The bottom of the dishwasher should also be regularly checked to ensure that the drainage area is clear and clean, and that no leaks are beginning to form in the hoses or pipes that lead to them.
Garbage Disposals
Garbage disposals usually last about ten years due to the strain that’s placed on its motor. The best way to increase the lifespan of your disposal is to watch what you put down it. Large, hard items should be avoided as they can dull the blades, clog your pipes, and wear down the motor more quickly.
The debris at the bottom of the disposal should also be regularly cleaned and cleared. Avoid forcing items like eggshells, potato peels, celery, and bones down into the garbage disposal. The screws that enhance the suspension of the disposal should be regularly checked to make sure that the garbage disposal unit stays intact. If the screws are loose, it is advisable to tighten them.
Protect Yourself from Appliance Repairs!
Even if you take good care of your appliances, you never know when one will fail. This can lead to costly repairs and, in the worst-case scenario, a full replacement of the device.
With an appliance or home protection plan, you can shield yourself against these unexpected repair bills. There are many different types of plans for you to choose between, depending on your budget and what you want to protect. Regardless of the plan you choose, you always get the same benefits through Everything Breaks:
- Fast and easy service scheduling
- No long-term contracts (cancel anytime)
- Coverage that never expires
- Low deductibles that cover most of the costs of repair or replacement.
Have any questions? Learn more about protecting your appliances with Everything Breaks.
