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I just finished a long chat with our washing machine repair technician, and what I learned should be shared with the world.
"They don't make them like they used to."
Home appliances are no longer built to last. Our repair technician took the time to investigate because, when he started the job, he was aghast by the average age of the appliances he was hired to fix. The most expensive home appliances might have the coolest features, but even those are not built to last.
If you're wondering whether we need to buy a new washing machine, we do. We are taking the advice of our repair technician on what to purchase based on what he sees in the field.
How to Determine if a New Appliance is Needed
Is Your Appliance Under Warranty?
Check the owner's manual to see if your appliance is still under warranty, in which case repairs may be covered for the first year or two. Check with your home warranty provider to see if it will cover the repair cost or the cost of a new appliance.
How Old is Your Appliance?
The average lifespan for appliances is a good reference point, but remember that it can vary depending on maintenance and usage. If you have recurring problems, you should consider replacing a newer appliance sooner.
Related: 29 Home Hacks for Husbands
Average Lifespan and Replacement Cost for Household Appliances and HVAC
How Much Will it Cost to Repair vs. Replace?
The repair cost will vary depending on the issue, but you can compare it with the replacement cost. When an appliance is more than halfway through its lifespan, and the repair costs more than 50% of a new one, you should consider replacing it.
Recommended Home Appliances
Our repair technician recommended this unbiased video with specific advice on what to purchase. He does not receive endorsements.
0:00 - Introduction
0:25 - Microwaves
2:15 - Ranges
3:36 - Dishwashers
5:15 - Refrigerators
7:38 - Refrigerators: Side-By-Side
8:33 - Refrigerators: French Door Bottom Freezer
9:44 - Washing Machines
10:05 - Washers: Top Loads
11:32 - Washers: Front Load
13:32 - Dryers
13:56 - Final Thoughts
Related: Click here to receive teamwork tips for busy couples to manage money and the home.
Communication with Your Spouse
Conversations about spending upward of $1,000 on a new washer are the opposite of fun. My goal is to relieve my wife of undue stress, such as figuring out what to buy and the installation logistics.
When the repair technician delivered the bad news, my wife was out of the state on business. I took responsibility for managing the issue, which included eliminating the mental load for my wife.
I did not bother her with a phone call. I emailed my wife the bad news on her personal email and shared the two replacement options. I did this so she didn't have to take the time to research it herself.
I then told her I would take care of purchasing the washer she wanted and scheduling the repair technician around my schedule.
How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Appliances and HVAC
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Central Air Conditioner
Regular Maintenance: Schedule annual maintenance checks with a qualified HVAC technician. This helps ensure that all parts of the system are functioning correctly and efficiently.
Change Filters Regularly: Replace or clean air filters every 1-3 months, depending on usage and environmental conditions. A clean filter improves air flow and efficiency, reducing strain on the system.
Keep the Area Clear: Ensure that the area around the outdoor unit is free from debris, leaves, and overgrowth. This improves air circulation and reduces strain on the unit.
Use a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat can help reduce the workload on your air conditioner by adjusting the temperature according to your schedule, which can extend the life of the unit.
Seal and Insulate: Properly sealing and insulating ducts can improve the efficiency of your air conditioning system by preventing loss of cool air, thus reducing the need for the system to work harder.
Avoid Overworking the System: Try to keep your thermostat at a consistent temperature as much as possible. Constantly changing settings or setting it too low can increase the workload and wear out the system faster.
Check Refrigerant Levels: Low refrigerant levels can cause the air conditioner to work harder, potentially shortening its life. Have a professional check the refrigerant level and ensure it is at the correct level.
Install Shades or Blinds: Use shades, blinds, or curtains to block direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day, reducing the load on your air conditioner.
Use Ceiling Fans: Ceiling fans can assist in circulating cool air more effectively throughout your home, allowing you to raise the thermostat setting by a few degrees without reducing comfort.
Check and Seal Leaks: Ensure that windows and doors are sealed properly to prevent cool air from escaping. This helps maintain efficiency and reduces unnecessary strain on the air conditioner.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Dishwasher
Rinse Dishes Before Loading: Although many modern dishwashers can handle some food residue, rinsing dishes can prevent the filter from getting clogged and helps maintain efficient operation.
Run Full Loads: Optimize each dishwasher cycle by running it only when it's full. This reduces the total number of cycles the dishwasher goes through over its lifetime.
Clean the Filters Regularly: Most dishwashers have removable filters at the bottom of the machine. Cleaning these filters regularly ensures that the dishwasher operates efficiently and prevents food particles from redepositing on dishes.
Inspect and Clean Spray Arms: Occasionally check the spray arms for clogs and clean them as needed. Ensuring that the water can flow freely through the spray holes is crucial for the machine's effectiveness.
Use the Right Detergent: Choose a high-quality detergent suitable for your dishwasher. Using too much detergent or the wrong type can lead to buildups and residue that may impair function.
Regularly Clean the Interior: Every few months, clean the interior of the dishwasher. You can do this by running a cycle with a cup of white vinegar placed on the top rack or using a commercially available dishwasher cleaner.
Check and Clean Seals: The rubber seals around the dishwasher door keep water contained during cycles. Regularly wiping them down with a damp cloth can prevent leaks and keep them from drying out and cracking.
Soften Hard Water: If you have hard water, consider installing a water softener. Hard water can lead to limescale build-up, which might damage the dishwasher’s internal components over time.
Avoid Overloading: While running full loads is efficient, overloading the dishwasher can strain the motor and prevent dishes from being cleaned properly. Make sure there is enough space for water and detergent to circulate.
Use Rinse Aid: Rinse aid not only helps with drying without streaks but also makes the water sheet off the dishes more effectively, which can reduce the stress on the heating element.
Check for Hose Leaks: Periodically inspect the water hoses on the back of the dishwasher for leaks, cracks, or kinks. Replace if necessary to prevent water damage and maintain proper water flow.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Dryer
Clean the Lint Filter: After every load, remove and clean the lint filter. This improves air circulation and the dryer's efficiency, and significantly reduces the risk of fire.
Inspect and Clean the Dryer Vent: Annually, or more often if you notice that it's taking longer than usual for clothes to dry, clean out the vent pipe to remove lint buildup and other obstructions. This not only helps the dryer operate efficiently but also reduces fire hazards.
Keep the Area Around the Dryer Clear: Ensure that the area around your dryer is clear of clutter. This allows for adequate air flow around the dryer, which helps prevent overheating.
Use the Right Settings: Avoid using high heat settings unnecessarily. High heat can wear out fabrics quickly, but it can also strain the dryer's motor and heating element. Use moisture sensors if available, which automatically shut off the dryer when clothes are dry.
Regularly Inspect the Drum Seals: Check the drum seals (located around the drum’s edges) periodically for signs of wear and damage. If they become worn, they can allow hot air to escape, forcing your dryer to work harder and use more energy.
Check and Replace the Internal Hoses and Belts: Inspect belts and hoses for cracks or wear and replace them as needed. A broken belt can suddenly halt dryer operation, and worn hoses can lead to inefficiencies and potential safety risks.
Do Not Overload: Overloading the dryer can lead to longer drying times and increased wear on the dryer’s components. It can also cause uneven drying where clothes remain damp in spots.
Level the Dryer: Ensure that your dryer is level to prevent undue wear on the motor and drum bearings. An unbalanced dryer can also cause noise and vibration.
Keep It Clean: Regularly wipe down the interior of the dryer. Every few months, use a vacuum to clear out lint that has bypassed the lint trap. Also, clean the exterior and control panel with suitable cleaners to keep them in good condition.
Use Dryer Balls: Wool or rubber dryer balls can help separate clothes and allow hot air to circulate more effectively. This reduces drying time, which can decrease wear and tear on the dryer.
How to Extend the Lifespan of an Electric Range
Keep It Clean: Regularly clean your range, including the stovetop, control panel, and oven interior. Spills and food particles can cause damage over time if not cleaned up. Use cleaners that are appropriate for the type of surface you have to avoid damaging the finish.
Check and Clean Burners: For an electric stove with coil burners, ensure the burners are free of food debris and other residues. If the burners are not heating evenly, they might need cleaning or replacing. For a glass top, use cleaners designed specifically for glass ceramic surfaces to avoid scratches.
Inspect Elements and Connections: Occasionally, check the heating elements and their connections. If an element is not working correctly, it could be due to a loose connection or a faulty element, which might need replacing.
Use Proper Cookware: Use flat-bottomed cookware that matches the size of the heating element on your range. This maximizes efficiency and helps to distribute heat evenly, which reduces stress on the elements.
Avoid Foil: Do not use aluminum foil to line the bottom of your oven or the stovetop. Foil can reflect heat and cause damage to the heating elements or the oven’s interior surface.
Oven Gaskets: Check the oven door gasket for wear and tear. A broken seal can lead to heat loss, causing your oven to work harder and increase your energy bills. Replace the gasket if it’s worn out.
Prevent Power Surges: Consider using a surge protector to prevent damage from power surges, which can affect the electronic components of your range.
Be Gentle: Avoid using excessive force on knobs, buttons, and the glass cooktop. This helps prevent damage to the mechanical and electronic components.
Self-Cleaning with Care: If your oven has a self-cleaning feature, use it sparingly. While convenient, the very high temperatures can stress oven components like the thermostat and electronic controls. Make sure to remove major debris manually before using this feature to minimize the risk.
Level the Range: Ensure your range is properly leveled. An unlevel range can cause uneven cooking and potentially pose safety risks when cooking with oils or other liquids.
Regular Inspections: If you notice any malfunction or a change in the performance of your range, consider getting it inspected by a professional. Early detection of issues can prevent more significant problems later.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Furnace
Change the Air Filters Regularly: Dirty filters restrict airflow, causing the furnace to work harder, which can lead to overheating and premature wear. Check your filters monthly and replace them as needed, typically every 1-3 months depending on usage and environmental factors.
Annual Maintenance: Have a professional HVAC technician perform annual maintenance before the heating season begins. This includes checking and cleaning the furnace’s components, such as the heat exchanger, burner, and blower motor, and ensuring the system is operating safely and efficiently.
Keep Vents and Registers Clear: Ensure that all household vents and registers are not blocked by furniture, carpets, or curtains. This allows for proper airflow throughout the system, preventing overwork and uneven heating.
Inspect the Blower Belt: If your furnace has a belt-driven blower, check the belt for cracks or fraying and ensure it’s not too loose or tight. Replacing or adjusting the belt as needed can prevent further damage and improve efficiency.
Seal Ductwork: Leaky ducts can cause heat loss and make your furnace work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Seal any leaks or gaps in the ductwork with duct sealant or metal-backed tape. Insulating ducts that run through unheated spaces can also help maintain heat and reduce energy consumption.
Check the Thermostat: Sometimes issues with heating are due to a malfunctioning thermostat rather than the furnace itself. Make sure your thermostat is calibrated correctly and consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat if you don’t already have one.
Keep the Area Around the Furnace Clear: Ensure that the area around your furnace is clear of debris, dust, and flammable materials. This not only helps in maintaining good airflow but also is a safety measure to prevent fires.
Ensure Proper Ventilation: Check the furnace’s ventilation system, including the flue and any intake and exhaust vents, to ensure they are not blocked by debris, snow, or other obstructions. Proper ventilation is crucial for safe operation.
Lubricate Moving Parts: If your furnace has parts that require lubrication, ensure they are lubricated annually to reduce friction and wear.
Listen for Unusual Noises: Unusual noises, such as banging, grinding, or squealing, can be signs of mechanical problems. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent more extensive and costly damage.
Review Energy Usage: If you notice a sudden increase in energy usage without a corresponding increase in heating needs, this might indicate that your furnace is becoming less efficient and may need servicing.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Gas Oven
Keep It Clean: Regularly clean the interior and exterior of your oven to prevent buildup of grease and food particles. Use a cleaner appropriate for gas ovens and avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the surface or components.
Check and Clean the Burners: The burners should be checked and cleaned periodically to ensure they are free of food debris and other obstructions. Clean burners improve efficiency and prevent uneven heating or flame issues.
Inspect the Igniter and Pilot Light: If your oven uses a pilot light, make sure it's always lit and functioning correctly. For ovens with an electronic igniter, watch for delayed ignition or a weak flame, which could indicate a problem with the igniter.
Ensure Proper Airflow: Keep the oven’s vents unblocked to ensure proper airflow. This helps the oven operate efficiently and safely.
Check the Door Seal: Examine the seal around the oven door for any signs of wear or damage. A broken seal can lead to heat loss, causing the oven to work harder to maintain temperature, which can wear out components more quickly.
Use Oven Liners Carefully: If you use an oven liner to catch drips, make sure it doesn’t block any vents or interfere with airflow. It’s important to follow manufacturer guidelines for the proper use of liners.
Calibrate the Thermostat: If you notice that your baking results vary unexpectedly, it might be time to check the calibration of the oven’s thermostat. A technician can adjust it to ensure accurate temperature settings.
Avoid Overloading: Do not overload the oven with too many dishes at once, as this can obstruct heat distribution and cause the oven to work harder.
Use Appropriate Cookware: Use the right size and type of cookware for your dishes. Cookware that is too large or inappropriate for gas ovens can cause uneven cooking and energy inefficiency.
Schedule Professional Maintenance: Have a professional technician inspect and service your gas oven periodically. They can check gas lines, test safety controls, and make sure that everything is in optimal working condition.
Be Mindful of Self-Cleaning Features: Use the self-cleaning function sparingly as it can significantly elevate temperatures and potentially wear out electronic components more quickly. Always remove major debris manually before using this feature.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Gas Range
Regular Cleaning: Keep your gas range clean by regularly wiping down the exterior, control panel, and knobs. For the stovetop and burners, remove grates and burner caps and clean them with a suitable degreaser. Avoid letting spills sit for too long, as they can clog burner ports.
Clean the Burners: Ensure that the burner ports are free from debris and food particles, which can block the flame from distributing evenly. Use a fine brush or a pin to carefully clean out these ports.
Check the Ignition and Flame: The flame on your burners should be steady and blue with no yellow tips. If the flame is weak, flickering, or yellow, it might indicate a problem with the air-to-gas ratio or that the burner is dirty.
Inspect Gas Lines: Periodically inspect the gas lines for leaks or signs of wear. You can use a soap and water solution to check for leaks: apply it to the connections and look for bubbles forming when the gas is on. If you suspect a leak, shut off the gas and call a professional immediately.
Use the Right Cookware: Use flat-bottomed cookware that matches the size of the burner to ensure efficient heat transfer and to prevent uneven heating or damage to the burner.
Avoid Overloading the Oven: Overloading the oven can lead to uneven cooking and put extra strain on the heating system. Allow for proper air circulation inside the oven by not overcrowding it.
Keep Oven Door Seals Clean and Intact: Check the seals around the oven door to make sure they are clean and not damaged. A tight seal ensures that heat does not escape, improving efficiency and reducing strain on the oven’s heating components.
Calibrate the Oven Temperature: If you notice that your cooking times are off, it might be a good idea to check the oven’s temperature calibration. You can use an oven thermometer to verify the accuracy of the oven’s thermostat.
Ventilation Maintenance: Ensure that your kitchen is well-ventilated, especially when using the gas range. Proper ventilation helps to remove combustion products and reduces heat buildup, which can affect the range’s components.
Professional Maintenance: Have a qualified technician inspect and service your gas range periodically. They can perform tasks that might be difficult or unsafe for an untrained person, such as adjusting the flame and checking internal components.
Use Gentle Cleaning Methods: When cleaning, avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive scrubbing tools that can scratch or damage the finish of your range. Instead, opt for gentler cleaning agents and soft clothes.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Microwave Oven
Keep It Clean: Regularly clean the interior and exterior of your microwave to prevent the buildup of food particles and grease, which can absorb microwave energy and lead to inefficiencies or damage. Use a mild detergent or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean inside. For tough stains, heating a bowl of water with lemon juice for a few minutes before wiping can help loosen the residue.
Cover Food: Always cover food with a microwave-safe lid or microwave plastic wrap to prevent splatters. This reduces the mess and helps food cook more evenly.
Use Microwave-Safe Containers: Only use containers and dishes that are labeled as microwave-safe. Using inappropriate materials, like some plastics, metals, or foam containers, can cause damage to both the food and the microwave.
Close the Door Gently: Avoid slamming the microwave door. The door latch is a critical component and can be damaged by rough handling, potentially leading to a malfunction where the microwave won’t start.
Check the Door Seal: Regularly inspect the seal around the microwave door for any food particles or damage. A good seal ensures that microwave radiation does not leak and the unit operates efficiently.
Don't Run It Empty: Never operate your microwave empty as it can cause damage to the magnetron (the component that generates the microwaves). Always have food or a microwave-safe beverage in the unit when turning it on.
Use Preset Cooking Times: Utilize preset cooking times if available. Overcooking not only wastes energy but can also shorten the lifespan of your microwave by putting extra stress on the magnetron and other components.
Position It Properly: Ensure your microwave is placed in a well-ventilated area with enough clearance around it, particularly around vents. This helps prevent overheating and promotes good air circulation.
Avoid Metal Objects: Never place metal objects inside the microwave. Metal can spark and cause damage to the interior, including scorching and potentially burning out the magnetron.
Regular Inspections: Occasionally inspect your microwave for any signs of damage or malfunction, such as unusual noises, sparks, or an unresponsive control panel. If you observe any of these issues, consult a professional technician.
Use It Properly: Avoid using the microwave for extensive cooking tasks that are better suited for a conventional oven. Microwaves are ideal for reheating, defrosting, and quick cooking tasks.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Refrigerator
Clean the Condenser Coils: Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils located at the back or bottom of your refrigerator, which can hinder cooling efficiency and strain the compressor. Clean these coils every six months to a year using a vacuum or a coil cleaning brush.
Maintain the Door Seals: Check the door seals (gaskets) for any signs of wear or cracks. A tight seal is crucial to maintain the internal temperature and prevent overworking the compressor. Clean the seals with a mild soap solution and replace them if they are damaged.
Set the Correct Temperature: The ideal temperature for your refrigerator is between 37°F and 40°F (3°C to 4°C), and the freezer should be at 0°F (-18°C). Setting the temperature too low can unnecessarily stress your refrigerator and increase energy consumption.
Keep It Full: A full refrigerator maintains its temperature better than an empty one because the mass of the cold items inside helps to stabilize the temperature when the door is opened. If it’s not full, store water containers or other safe items to help retain the cold.
Cover Foods and Liquids: Always cover foods and liquids. This minimizes moisture inside the unit, which can make the compressor work harder.
Defrost Regularly: If your refrigerator is not frost-free, regular defrosting is necessary to prevent ice buildup, which can impair the efficiency of the cooling system.
Allow Proper Air Circulation: Leave some space between the wall and the refrigerator, and between items stored inside it. This allows air to circulate around the coils and inside the unit, improving cooling efficiency.
Check the Interior Light: Ensure the interior light goes off when the door is closed. A malfunctioning light can produce excess heat and cause the refrigerator to run more frequently.
Keep the Fridge Away from Heat Sources: Place your refrigerator away from direct sunlight and other heat sources like ovens or dishwashers. Excessive heat can cause your refrigerator to work harder to maintain cool temperatures.
Vacuum the Vent Grills: Clean the vent grills at the bottom or top of the fridge to ensure they are not blocked by dust, which can restrict airflow and impact performance.
Open the Door Less Frequently: Each time you open the refrigerator door, warm air enters and the compressor has to work harder to cool it down again. Try to open the door as infrequently as possible.
Regular Inspections: Occasionally, inspect your refrigerator for proper function. Listen for unusual noises and look for any signs of leakage or frost buildup. Addressing problems early can prevent larger, more costly issues later.
How to Extend the Lifespan of a Washing Machine
Use the Right Amount of Detergent: Overloading your machine with detergent can lead to buildups that harm the machine's internals and impair its efficiency. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for detergent use based on load size and water hardness.
Run Regular Maintenance Washes: Every month, run an empty wash at a high temperature with a machine cleaner or white vinegar. This helps to remove detergent residues and keeps the machine clean internally.
Check and Clean the Filters: Many washing machines have filters to catch lint, small objects, and other debris. Check and clean these filters regularly to prevent blockages and ensure smooth operation.
Inspect the Door Seal: Check the rubber seal (gasket) on the door for signs of wear, tear, or mold buildup. Clean it regularly with a mildew cleaner or white vinegar, and replace it if it's damaged to prevent leaks.
Keep the Machine Level: An unbalanced machine can vibrate excessively, putting stress on its components. Make sure your washing machine is level to reduce vibrations; adjust the feet and use a level to check.
Don’t Overload the Machine: Overloading your washing machine can strain the motor, drum, and other components. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for load capacity.
Use Water Softener in Hard Water Areas: Hard water can cause lime buildup inside the machine, which can damage the heating element and other components. Using a water softener can help protect your machine if you live in a hard water area.
Leave the Door Open After Use: After each wash, leave the door and the detergent drawer slightly open to allow the interior to dry out completely, preventing mold and mildew buildup.
Secure Hoses and Connections: Regularly check that the water hoses are securely connected and not leaking. Replace hoses every few years or sooner if they show signs of wear.
Use Suitable Cycles: Utilize the appropriate wash cycles for different types of laundry. Using gentle cycles when appropriate can reduce the wear and tear on your clothes and the machine.
Remove Clothes Promptly: Leaving wet clothes in the machine can contribute to mold and odors. Remove washed clothing promptly after the cycle ends.
Regular Professional Checks: Consider having a professional service your washing machine every few years to ensure that it is in good working condition, especially if you notice any unusual noises or operations.
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