Life Expectancy of Major Appliances

Most of the major appliances that we use in our homes have a predictable life expectancy.  The appliances can last longer than their life expectancy if they get the proper care and maintenance. The life expectancy of a major appliance will determine whether it is worth getting repaired and if it should be replaced. 

• The refrigerator with a single door should last about 19 years. The side by side model refrigerator and the top mount refrigerator with the freezer on top should both last about 14 years. The bottom mount refrigerator with the freezer on the bottom should last 17 years. The most common repair problems are the compressor won't cool and malfunction of the icemaker. 


• The electric stove should last about 17 years while the gas stove should last about 19 years. The most common problem is the burner won't heat in the electric stoves and the gas valve won't open in the gas stoves.


• The dishwasher will last about 13 years. The most common problem is the motor system fails and the water valve won't open.


• A gas water heater will last between 11 and 13 years, while the electric water heater will last between 13 and 14 years.


• A top loaded washer machine will last for about 14 years and the front load washing machine will last for about 11 years. The most common problem with the washing machine are the drive motor stops, the drive belt breaks and the water pump leaks and won't let the water out.


• The clothes dryer will last about 13 years. The most common problem is the drive belt breaks and the heating element fails.