|
 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.
Remember-
The hard water in Eastern Idaho can cut some of these
expectancies in half!
|
Major appliances |
|
|
Appliance |
Expected life in years |
|
Microwave oven |
10 |
|
Garbage
disposal |
10-12 |
|
Trash
compactor |
10 |
|
Water
heater, gas |
11-13 |
|
Water
heater, electric |
13-14 |
|
Water
heater, tankless (on demand) |
20+ |
|
Smoke
detector |
10 |
|
Refrigerator, side by side |
14 |
|
Refrigerator, top mount |
14 |
|
Refrigerator, bottom mount |
17 |
|
Refrigerator, single door |
19 |
|
Refrigerator, compact (dorm type) |
5 |
|
Washing
machine, top load |
14 |
|
Washing
machine, front load |
11 |
|
Dryer |
13 |
|
Range,
electric |
17 |
|
Range,
gas |
19 |
|
Dishwasher |
10 |
|
Cooktops |
13-20 |
|
Air
Conditioner (room size) |
10 |
|
