As a homeowner, one of your most significant investments is in quality appliances. These machines make our lives easier and boost convenience, from preparing meals for the family to cleaning clothes and keeping food fresh. However, nothing lasts forever; eventually, you’ll need new household machines. How do you know when it’s time to replace an appliance?
Here are a few common household appliances and their average life expectancies, plus advice on when it’s time for an upgrade.
When to Replace an Appliance
Refrigerators
The average lifespan of a fridge is approximately 10-15 years. However, several factors can influence this, including how well it’s maintained. Signs that it’s time to replace your fridge include strange noises, increasingly high energy bills, and inconsistent temperatures. If your fridge is over ten years old and exhibits symptoms of problems, it may be time to start shopping for a new one.
Replace Your Appliance: The Dishwasher
Dishwashers tend to have a shorter life expectancy than other appliances, lasting around 7-12 years. If your dishwasher is not cleaning dishes thoroughly, leaving residues, or smells unpleasant, it could mean the machine is on its last legs. Any leaks under or around the dishwasher also indicate a problem.
Ovens and Stovetops
On average, ovens and stovetops last about 15 years. However, if your meals take longer than usual to cook or the stovetop seems slow to heat up, it may be time to replace it. Be aware of strange smells or noises and check for signs of wear and tear, such as a door that doesn’t close properly.
Washing Machine and Dryer
Washing machines and dryers have an average life expectancy of 10-13 years. Be on the lookout for leaks, strange noises, and odd smells. If your clothes come out of the machine smelling musty, it could be due to mold growth. While repairs and cleaning might solve these problems, purchasing a new one can be more cost-effective if the appliance is over ten years old.
Buying new appliances is an investment, and it’s essential to know when the time has come to replace them. Understanding the life expectancy of common household appliances and looking for signs they need replacing can save money in the long term. Plan ahead and create a budget for household machines that have been used for over a decade. Regular maintenance goes a long way in prolonging the life of your appliances, but eventually, you’ll need to replace them. Keep these tips in mind to keep your home running smoothly.
Lester’s Construction Company are renovation and construction professionals in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and the Piedmont Triad area. Contact us to learn about our services.