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How Long Do Major Appliances Last

When was the last time you bought a fridge or stove and, on the way out, the sales person patted you on the back and said something like: “Enjoy it while it lasts…for the 13 years or so.”

Sounds pretty negative, right?  Besides, why detract from the good feeling a customer has after making a major purpose?

But, on the flip side of that coin, don’t you want a realistic expectation of what to expect with each such purpose, assuming the answer is “sometime less than forever”?

Of course you do, so here are some average equipment life expectancies you can use as points of reference:

Washing Machines – With routine maintenance, you can expect to get 10 years from your washing machine.

Dryers – The average lifespan of both gas and electric-powered dryers is 13 years, but that number can grow with ongoing care.

Refrigerators – Today’s refrigerators, with more bells and whistles than earlier models, will keep going strong for about 13 years. If you’re ready for an upgrade, consider purchasing an Energy Star rated model to help cut your energy costs.

Ranges – Gas ranges are good for about 15 years, thus outlasting (at least statistically) all other major kitchen appliances. Electric ranges typically offer 13 years of consistently reliable use.

Dishwashers – Dishwashers make light work of meal clean-up. Unfortunately, they generally need to be replaced after about 9 years.

Microwaves – Forever changing the way we prep and warm food, these modern conveniences generally last between 5 and 10 years.

Garbage Disposals – With proper maintenance, your garbage disposal will keep grinding away for an average of 12 years.

Air Conditioners – The average life expectancy of a window unit is about 10 years. But if you have central air, you can expect it to keep you comfortable for about 15 years…again, with proper care and maintenance.

Furnaces – The lifespan of a furnace depends on its type. Electric furnaces last about 15 years, gas-fired 18 years, while oil-fueled furnaces can operate effectively for 20 years or more.

Water Heaters – As with furnaces, the longevity of water heaters depends on their type. On-demand – or tankless – water heaters last the longest at 20+ years, while electric and gas last about 10 to 11 years.

Are any of these numbers guaranteed?  No. And yet, can life expectancies be exceeded? Yes, but not by simply plugging them in and ignoring them.  Here at Messmer Mechanical, we can help you keep your heating, cooling, and plumbing systems in top working order with annual preventive maintenance and, when needed, high-quality repair service. So remember: you don’t have to go it alone. Not when you have Messmer in your corner!