Average Lifespan of Major Home Appliances
Understanding the lifespan of appliances can help in better planning and averting financial surprises. Although each home and appliance differ from the other, there is a median lifespan that most homeowners in Burbank can expect—considering routine maintenance and minimal wear and tear.
Here’s a simple look at how long each major appliance usually lasts:
Refrigerator - 10-15 years of average lifespan (for premium high-end)
Dishwasher - 9-12 years
Washing Machine - 10-13 years (fore premium high-end)
Oven/Range 13-15 years (gas lasts longer for premium high-end)
Microwave 7-10 years
Garbage Disposal 8-12 years
Freezer 12-16 years (for premium high-end)
Take the fridge as an example. A common question is, how long do refrigerators last? Usually, a refrigerator built in the 21st century (appliance from the past had a much longer life-span) that is well taken care of will last from 10 to 15 years. However, if the unit is over 12 years old and not cooling properly, then it is time to consider a replacement or at least a professional repair.
Dishwashers and washing machines have an average lifespan of around 10 years. In homes with heavy usage, these appliances may wear out faster. On the other hand, dryers and microwaves usually begin to show aging signs, such as taking longer to dry clothes or heat food, after the 10-year mark.
Ovens and ranges, specifically gas ones, stand out in the kitchen for being the most long-lasting appliances. Freezers tend to last longer than fridges, especially when kept in cooler indoor conditions.
If you are in doubt whether your appliance has reached the end of its life expectancy or it just needs a small repair, seeking a professional opinion is a wise move. Appliance Repair Services from Universal Appliance Repair are perfect for this. The local team that services Burbank assess your appliance and tell you whether it still has some life left in it or if a replacement is the better option.
Planning ahead by understanding the expected lifespan of your appliances can help you avoid the stress that comes with unexpected breakdowns.
What Affects Appliance Lifespan in Burbank Homes?
Every home appliance comes with a particular lifespan, but this can change depending on how and where it is used. In Burbank, homeowners deal with a combination of modern updates and older infrastructure, which makes a real difference in the longevity of the appliance. Here’s what you need to know:
Older Wiring and Plumbing
Most of the homes in Burbank were constructed in the 50’s or earlier. While their design is charming, old wiring and plumbing can be hard on appliances. Appliances such as refrigerators, microwaves, and washing machines can have a limited lifespan due to fluctuating voltage and outdated outlets. Similarly, old pipes can lead to low water pressure and poor water quality that adversely impact washers and dishwashers.
Hard Water
Some areas in Burbank deal with hard water issues. This type of water is rich in minerals such as calcium and magnesium. These minerals can accumulate in your appliances, especially dishwashers and washing machines, causing clogs, reduced efficiency, and increased wear and tear. Appliance maintenance in Burbank, such as regular descaling and cleaning of filters, can help manage these issues.
Frequent Use
Appliances in large families and busy households are used frequently. Multiple laundry sessions per week or daily runs on the dishwasher can accelerate wear and tear. The more appliances are used, the more likely they are to need repairs or early replacement.
Improper Installation
Not all appliance issues stem from their usage—some start on day one due to a poor installation. A refrigerator that is not levelled properly or a washing machine that is not hooked up right means that these appliances will work harder than necessary and lead to a reduction in lifespan. This is why professional installers must be hired so that future inconveniences are avoided.
To extend appliance life, basic care such as cleaning, checking vents, checking hose connections, and monitoring small issues regularly is the best move. When in doubt, do not wait. Universal Appliance Repair is a call away to help keep appliances in excellent working condition for years.
Repair or Replace? How to Decide
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is whether to repair or replace. The right choice depends on a few key factors. If you’re in Burbank and dealing with this situation, here’s a simple consideration to help you decide.
When Replacement Makes More Sense
A general rule to follow is:
- If the repair cost is more than 50% of the price of a new appliance, it's usually better to replace.
- If your appliance is older than 75% of its expected lifespan, replacement may save money in the long run.
For instance, if your refrigerator is 12 years old and the compressor stops working, the cost of repair might not be worth it. In this case, replacing it with a more energy-efficient model could save you money in the long run.
When a Quick Repair is Enough
However, not all issues require replacement. A quick repair can solve many common appliance problems. Let's explore these issues:
- A dishwasher that needs a new pump or seal
- A dryer with a worn-out or faulty belt
- A washing machine with a clogged drain pump
These are repairs that can be done quickly and at a much lower cost than buying new. In these cases, repair is often the smarter and more budget-friendly option.
If you're stuck between repair vs replace of an appliance in Burbank, getting an expert opinion can help you avoid wasting money. The experienced team at Universal Appliance Repair offers clear and honest guidance about when to replace appliances to help you make the right choice.
Schedule Repair – Universal Appliance Repair and get peace of mind knowing you’re making the best decision for your home.
Tips to Extend the Life of Your Appliances
It doesn't matter whether it's the refrigerator, dishwasher, or laundry machines; their early breakdowns can be avoided with the proper care. Like any other device, appliances also require attention when it comes to maintenance. This helps save money on repairs and gets the best out of the appliances.
Here are some easy appliance care tips every Burbank homeowner can follow:
- Clean filters regularly: This includes lint traps in dryers, air filters in microwaves, and food filters in dishwashers.
- Wipe refrigerator door seals: Dirt buildup can weaken the seal and cause cool air to escape, making your fridge work harder.
- Check water lines and hoses: Look for cracks or leaks in water lines and hoses of washing machines and dishwashers. Catching small problems early prevents big damage.
- Avoid overloading: Washing machines and dryers can wear out faster if they’re constantly overloaded. To extend washer dryer lifespan, follow the load size guidelines in your user manual.
- Use the right detergent: High-efficiency (HE) washers need HE detergent—too many suds can damage internal parts.
Following these simple tips can extend the lifespan of your appliances. If you notice any strange noises, leaks, or dips in performance, don’t ignore them. Getting issues fixed early is always cheaper than a full replacement.
When to Call the Experts at Universal Appliance Repair
Determining whether an appliance needs a small repair or whether it's time to purchase a new unit can be quite challenging. Scheduling a professional diagnosis will allow you to make informed decisions. That is why appliance repair in Burbank becomes a crucial lifesaver.
Universal Appliance Repair has offered professional services for the residents of Burbank for 20 years. Our skilled technicians offer numerous repair services, ranging from a complete no-cool situation in your fridge to a stubborn washer that refuses to drain. Our objective is to resolve customer issues as efficiently as possible while using cost-effective methods. We offer same-day services for many of our repairs, so you can get back to everyday life without disruption.
Our team prides itself on honest advice and dependable work. We’ll let you know if the appliance is worth fixing or if it’s time to move on.
If an appliance starts producing strange sounds, leaking, or performing weakly, don’t sit around waiting. For speedy assistance, go to our Contact Us – Universal Appliance Repair section and book a local, reputable appliance repair service that prioritizes your home.
If you’re noticing signs like strange noises, leaks, or weak performance, don’t guess—let a local expert take a look. For fast and reliable help, schedule your service through our Contact Us – Universal Appliance Repair page. You’ll get trusted, local appliance service that puts your home’s needs first.
So How Long will your Appliances Last living in Burbank?
Monitoring how old your appliances are and how well they work can save you from big surprises and additional expenses. Understanding when to repair or replace appliances saves time and money. With expert guidance, you can make better decisions at every stage.
If you’re not sure how much life your oven, fridge, or washer has left, the trusted team at Universal Appliance Repair is ready to assist. With honest diagnostics and reliable service, we have earned the trust of homeowners across Burbank.
Do not wait if you are experiencing strange sounds, temperature complications, or simply want to get a second opinion. Book a Service Appointment today and keep your home running smoothly with trusted appliance repair service that’s just around the corner.