How Long Do Appliances Really Last? Average Lifespan by Type

When you invest in a new appliance, whether it's a fridge or a washing machine, one of the first questions that comes to mind is: "How long will this thing last?" After all, major appliances aren't cheap, and they play a huge role in your daily routine. The truth is, every appliance has a different average lifespan—and how well you maintain it can make a big difference.

In this guide, we’ll break down how long common household appliances really last, what factors can shorten or extend their life, and when it’s time to call in professional appliance repair help.

Why Appliance Lifespan Matters

Understanding how long an appliance typically lasts helps you:

• Plan your budget: You’ll know when to expect replacements.

• Decide between repairing or replacing an older appliance.

• Maintain appliances better to get the most out of your investment.

Let’s explore each major household appliance, their average lifespans, and tips to keep them running longer.

1. Refrigerators: 10–15 Years

Average lifespan:

Most refrigerators last 10 to 15 years, but high-end models can go up to 20 years with proper maintenance.

Signs it’s aging:

• Motor runs constantly

• Uneven cooling

• Loud or strange noises

• Condensation on shelves

Tips to extend life:

• Clean the coils every 6 months

• Don’t overload shelves

• Replace door seals if they’re cracked or loose

If your refrigerator is over 10 years old and breaking down frequently, calling a reliable appliance repair service can help you determine if it’s worth fixing.

2. Dishwashers: 8–12 Years

Average lifespan:

Expect a dishwasher to last around 9 to 12 years.

Signs it’s on the way out:

• Dishes aren’t coming out clean

• Water isn’t draining properly

• Unusual smells or noises

Tips to extend life:

• Regularly clean the filter and spray arms

• Run a dishwasher cleaner once a month

• Don’t overload racks

Routine maintenance and quick repairs can prevent expensive replacements. If yours is under 10 years and having issues, a quick appliance repair could do the trick.

3. Washing Machines: 10–14 Years

Average lifespan:

A typical washing machine lasts 10 to 14 years depending on usage and maintenance.

Warning signs:

• Excessive noise or vibrations

• Leaking water

• Clothes aren’t spinning dry

Tips to make it last:

• Don’t overload the drum

• Use the right amount of detergent

• Clean the washer monthly (yes, really!)

If repairs start costing more than half the price of a new washer, it may be time to replace it. Otherwise, consider calling a professional to check for minor issues.

4. Dryers: 10–13 Years

Average lifespan:

Dryers tend to last about 10 to 13 years.

Trouble signs:

• Longer drying times

• Drum not spinning

• Burning smells

Life-extending tips:

• Clean the lint filter after every load

• Have the vent and ducts cleaned regularly

• Avoid overloading

If your dryer takes forever to dry clothes, it may just need a vent cleaning or minor appliance repair—not a full replacement.

5. Ovens and Ranges: 13–17 Years

Average lifespan:

Gas ranges last longer (15–17 years) than electric ones (13–15 years).

Watch for:

• Inconsistent temperatures

• Burners not lighting

• Faulty oven door seals

Tips for longer use:

• Clean burners and oven interiors regularly

• Check and replace door gaskets

• Don’t slam oven doors

If your oven has good bones and just a small issue, a simple repair may give you several more years of use.

6. Microwaves: 7–10 Years

Average lifespan:

Microwaves typically last 7 to 10 years.

Common signs of failure:

• Weak heating

• Buttons not working

• Strange noises or smells

Extend its life:

• Use microwave-safe containers only

• Keep it clean inside and out

• Don’t run it empty

Microwaves are often inexpensive to replace, but if you have a built-in model, appliance repair might be more cost-effective than replacing the entire unit.

7. Garbage Disposals: 8–12 Years

Average lifespan:

You’ll usually get 8 to 12 years from a good garbage disposal.

Warning signs:

• Frequent clogs

• Loud grinding or buzzing

• Foul odors

Tips for a longer life:

• Avoid bones, grease, and fibrous foods

• Always run cold water while in use

• Use disposal-cleaning tablets monthly

If it starts acting up but hasn’t hit the 10-year mark, try a service call before replacing it.

8. Water Heaters: 8–12 Years

Average lifespan:

Tank water heaters last around 8–12 years, while tankless units can go up to 20 years.

Trouble signs:

• Rusty water

• Inconsistent temperatures

• No hot water at all

Pro tips:

• Flush the tank once a year to remove sediment

• Test the pressure relief valve

• Install a water softener if you have hard water

With regular care, water heaters can exceed expectations. For tankless models, calling a technician for regular appliance repair checks can be a game-changer.

9. Freezers: 11–20 Years

Average lifespan:

A standalone freezer can last 11 to 20 years.

Early red flags:

• Frost buildup

• Food not freezing properly

• Loud humming

Maintenance matters:

• Keep it in a cool, dry area

• Defrost manually if it’s not frost-free

• Keep the door seals clean and tight

If it’s still running fine after 15 years, consider yourself lucky—but have a repair expert on speed dial just in case.

How to Tell If You Should Repair or Replace

Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
If the cost of repair is more than 50% of the cost of a new appliance, replacement is probably smarter.
However, if your appliance is under 10 years old and hasn’t had many issues before, a quick fix might save you hundreds.

Having a go-to appliance repair service you trust can help you make smarter decisions and avoid replacing something that just needs a little TLC.

Smart Tips to Make Your Appliances Last Longer

1. Keep them clean: Dust, grime, and grease are appliance killers.

2. Use them properly: Follow the manual’s load limits and cycle recommendations.

3. Schedule annual maintenance: Catch small issues before they become big (and expensive).

4. Don’t ignore warning signs: The earlier you catch a problem, the easier (and cheaper) it usually is to fix.

5. Hire professional repairs when needed: DIY can sometimes make things worse.

Final Thoughts

Household appliances are a big investment, and knowing how long they typically last can help you plan ahead, budget smarter, and avoid unnecessary stress. With a little maintenance and the right help when you need it, you can often stretch your appliances’ lifespans well beyond average.