Unfortunately, the appliances around your home are not designed to last forever. Appliances are expensive, costing hundreds or thousands of dollars, so you want them to last as long as possible. There are things you can do to make the most of appliances. Here are a few of the best ways to extend the lifespans of appliances in your home.
How to Extend the Lifespans of Household Appliances
1. Dishwasher
Your dishwasher is one of the most useful household appliances, with most homes using it daily. However, these appliances typically only last around ten years. To extend the life expectancy, scrape food from plates before stacking them in. This prevents food debris from causing damage. Never overload the dishwasher as this can add stress to the machine.
2. Lifespans of Laundry Appliances
Washing machines can last around ten years, while dryers can last 13 years. To prolong the washing machine’s lifespan, place it on level ground. If your washing machine is unbalanced, it can cause damage during use.
For dryers, don’t overload the machine and clean the lint trap screen between loads. Have your dryer vent cleaned every year to remove lint built up over time.
3. Microwave
A microwave can last between 5 and 10 years, depending on the brand. Even though these appliances are more affordable, they still need regular cleaning and upkeep. Never run this appliance empty. When you run a microwave empty, there is no food to absorb the energy, so the appliance itself absorbs it.
4. Refrigerator and Freezer
A refrigerator can last between 10 and 12 years, while chest freezers function well for 20 years. To get the most out of your fridge or freezer, make sure the rubber seals are intact to keep cold air in and heat out. This prevents the appliance from using more energy to maintain its interior temperature. Regularly dust the condenser coils and replace the water filter as often as the manufacturer recommends.
5. Air Conditioner
Air conditioners and HVAC systems typically last between 15 and 20 years. These systems are complex and expensive to replace. To prolong the lifespans of these appliances, have them serviced annually by a trained technician. Replace the air filter every three months and clean the air ducts often to prevent dirt from adding unnecessary stress to the system.
Precision Home Inspectors offers inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the Hampton Roads area. Contact us to request an appointment.