Appliance Lifespan & Replacement Guide
Every appliance has a typical lifespan based on average use conditions. Knowing when to replace yours helps you avoid unexpected breakdowns, high energy bills from aging equipment, and costly repairs on worn-out machines.
According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission and appliance industry data: refrigerators and dryers typically last 13 years, washing machines 11 years, dishwashers and microwaves 9 years, and air conditioners up to 15 years with proper maintenance.
Once an appliance passes the midpoint of its lifespan, start budgeting for replacement. When it exceeds its expected lifespan, the risk of failure increases significantly and energy efficiency typically drops 20–40% compared to modern Energy Star models.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — if a repair costs more than half the price of a replacement, it's generally better to replace. This is especially true for appliances past their expected lifespan.
Yes. Cleaning condenser coils on refrigerators, clearing lint from dryers, and descaling dishwashers can add 2–4 years to an appliance's operational life.