When is it Time to Replace Your Appliances?

Most appliances have an average lifespan of about 10 to 15 years. If your appliance is near or past that date, it might be worth investing in a new one. 

You can usually find the age of your appliance on the label or coded into its serial number. Here are some tips from Capitan Appliance to help you decide whether it’s time to repair or replace your appliance:. 

Refrigerators 

Refrigerators, like any other appliance, have a lifespan. If you have a fridge that’s more than a decade old, and you keep having to repair it, then it may be time to start shopping for a new refrigerator. This is especially true if the repairs are getting costly or it seems like the fridge is breaking down more frequently than usual. 

Besides, if the refrigerator is wasting energy and you’re seeing high utility bills, then it’s definitely time for a replacement. Check to see if the fridge has any cracks or signs of a leak. If the fridge is leaking, then it will require a professional service call and can be expensive to repair. 

It’s also a good idea to replace the refrigerator if you’re planning to sell your home soon. Buyers are looking for energy efficient appliances and will be put off by an older fridge. Recycling your old refrigerator at Focus on Energy can save you money and keep metal out of landfills. 

Dishwashers 

Dishwashers are the workhorses of the kitchen, but they won’t last forever. If your dishwasher is on the older side, or has been repaired several times in a short period of time, it may be time to invest in a new one. 

Homeowners can usually tell if it’s time to replace appliances by keeping track of their age and comparing that against typical lifespans. Another tip is to follow the 50/50 rule: If the cost of a repair is over 50% of the price of buying a new appliance, it’s likely better to get rid of the old one and buy something new. 

Lastly, if an appliance has been broken down multiple times in a row or if it’s constantly making loud noises, it’s probably a good idea to replace it. These kinds of noises can keep you awake at night and affect your quality of life, which is why many homeowners choose to buy newer, more energy-efficient appliances. 

Stoves & Ovens 

The average lifespan for stoves and ovens is 13-15 years, though this can vary depending on the quality of the appliance. If your appliance is close to or has passed its lifespan, it might be time to replace it. This is especially true if you are seeing recurring issues with it or if you find yourself paying for costly repairs. 

Another sign that it’s time to replace your appliances is if they are old and not

energy-efficient. Energy efficient appliances can significantly reduce your utility bills, so replacing your old ones with new, state-of-the-art models can save you money in the long run. 

When shopping for new appliances, look for sales during the months when new models roll out: snag small appliances like toaster ovens and coffee makers in November and December, refrigerators in May and June, and washers and dryers in September and October. These are the best times to buy appliances, as retailers offer lower prices on current models to make room for new inventory. 

Washers & Dryers 

Unfortunately, all appliances eventually run their course. While washers and dryers can last on average about a decade or more, even with the best of care, they will need to be replaced at some point. 

When your laundry pair starts to run into trouble, it is wise to have them professionally assessed to determine the root cause of the problem. A lot of issues are fairly easy to fix, while others may be more complex and require a professional’s expertise. Issues with a blocked drain in Canberra may require an appliance upgrade. 

Excessive noise from your machines is one common red flag that you should consider replacement. Although noisy machines can be fixed if they are off-balance or the feet need to be adjusted, loud thumping or humming typically means it is time to say goodbye. 

Look for sales in the spring to score deals on your next washer and dryer set. This is the time when retailers are trying to clean the house, make room for new inventory, and offer customers a good deal.