It’s not uncommon for homeowners to forget how long they have had their appliances
Like most things, appliances have a life expectancy. After a certain amount of time it’s a good idea to replace them before they have a malfunction and cause serious damage. Although, people tend to replace appliances long before they become worn out due to changes in styles and updated technology. Life expectancy also depends on a great deal the use it receives. Here is a list of things we use; things we need; things we can’t live without in our everyday lives and just how long their life span is.
• Air-Conditioners: 8-15 years
• Dehumidifiers: 8 years
• Dishwashers: 9 years
• Disposers, Food waste: 12 years
• Dryers: 13 years
• Exhaust Fans: 10 years
• Freezers: 10-20 years
• Furnaces: 15-25 years
• Gas Ovens: 10-18 years
• Heat Pumps: 16 years
• Humidifiers: 8 years
• Microwave Ovens: 9 years
• Range/Oven Hoods: 14 years
• Electric Ranges: 13-15 years
• Gas Ranges: 15-17 years
• Refrigerators: 9-13 years
• Washing Machine: 5-15 years
• Water Heaters: 10-11 years
• Smoke/Heat Detectors: less than 10 years
As for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, these require regular maintenance in order to work properly, but even well-maintained systems only last 15 to 25 years. Furnaces, on average, last 15-20 years, heat pumps last 16 years, and air conditioning units last 10-15 years. Tankless water heaters last more than 20 years, while an electric or gas water heater has a life expectancy of about 10 years. Thermostats may last 35 years but they are usually replaced before they fail due to technological improvements.
There are things you can do to keep your appliances runner longer. Just as cars need the occasional oil change and tune up to extend their mileage, your home appliances need some added attention now and again too. Well-maintained appliances use less energy, require fewer repairs, and last longer.
Here are some maintenance tips for just a few appliances most people frequently use.
Refrigerator – A dirty refrigerator coil can restrict airflow through the appliance. This causes it to overheat and potentially break down. Remove your fridge’s kick plate (the front panel near the floor) or reach around the back of the fridge and clean the coils with a handheld vacuum.
Dishwasher – Like the refrigerator, a faulty gasket can prevent your dishwasher from operating correctly. Dirt, cracks, or other buildup on the gasket can cause your dishwasher to leak. Regularly cleaning it with soap and water to keep a watertight seal should help prevent this.
Washing machine – Don’t overload the machine! Stuffing the machine full adds strain on the washer’s motor, transmission, belts, and other parts. Yet, don’t wash small loads as is uses the same amount of water and energy and can lead to off-balance cycles, which put a strain on the drive components.
Clothes Dryer – Just like the washing machine, do not overload as it causes strain on the machine. Also pay attention do drying times. Machines are set to 60 minutes when usually it only takes about half that time to dry a normal load. It’s also important to regularly monitor the dryer’s external vent cap. This is located outside your home. Check for a buildup of lint and dust. Debris prevents the cap from operating normally and reduces airflow, causing failure of the motor and thermostats. Plus, it’s a potential fire hazard.
If you or someone you know has experienced a machine malfunction that has caused water or fire damage then call Warren Restoration. Our certified professionals are ready 24/7 for your property restoration needs.