1. How long should an appliance last?![]()
Most appliances and small electrical products have fairly predictable life expectancies. Depending on the original cost, manufacturing quality, and how heavily it´s used, an appliance may last a longer or shorter period than shown in the following table.
Nevertheless, it´s useful information, especially if you want to make sure you get your money´s worth. Just knowing that the microwave is going to die after only 10 years, or that you need to budget for a replacement for your gas range after about 20, helps plan for the inevitable expense. And if you are buying used appliances, it´s a good indicator of how long you can expect a five-year-old top-loading washer to last.
The following table shows average life expectancies for common household appliances. This information has been derived from different sources including manufacturers´ websites and consumer resources, and is intended only as an estimate. Care and maintenance as well as proper installation also play big roles in performance and longevity.
2. Are There Differences Among the Durability of Major appliances?
Appliance Expected life in yearsMicrowave oven 10Garbage disposal 10-12Trash compactor 10Water heater, gas 11-13Water heater, electric 13-14Water heater, tankless (on demand) 20+Smoke detector 10Refrigerator, side by side 14Refrigerator, top mount 14Refrigerator, bottom mount 17Refrigerator, single door 19Refrigerator, compact (dorm type) 5Washing machine, top load 14Washing machine, front load 11Dryer 13Range, electric 17Range, gas 19Dishwasher 10Cooktops 13-20Air Conditioner (room size) 10