How to Know When to Replace Your Appliances
Eventually, your major appliances will die. Depending on your budget, maintenance and replacement options will vary. Here are some guidelines about the shelf life of major appliances and how to know when to throw up your hands and replace them.
Here’s the estimated life expectancy for most major appliances:
- Trash Compactor: 6 years
- Dishwasher: 9 years
- Garbage Disposal: 12 years
- Faucet: 15 years
- Microwave Oven: 9 years
- Range, Electric: 13 years
- Range, Gas: 15 years
- Refrigerator: 13 years
- Freezer: 10-20 years
- Air conditioner: 20 years
- Washing machine: 5-15 years
- Dryers: 13 years
- Water heaters: 20-11 years
- Furnace: 15-25 years
Maintenance
Most of us prefer to maintain our machines for as long as possible. However, if the cost of the repair is more than half of the price of a new or high-quality used product, buy the new product.
New vs. Used
This is a question that many people ask, and the answer isn’t always simple. If your budget allows it, you will be safer buying new products that come with a warranty or a protection plan. Used gear, generally sold as-is, is rarely, if ever protected. However, if you can find a gently used item in top condition, there may be little cause for worry.
How to Get a Good Used Replacement
If you do opt for a used unit, make sure that you’ve got the means to lift, transport and install the appliance. This is often covered in the purchase of a new unit, so make sure that you’re not losing your savings by having to hire someone to do these things for you. You can find a quality appliance through friends and family or an online broker. Brick-and-mortar shops selling used appliances mark the items up to near-new prices, so exercise caution when shopping at these types of retailers.
Buying New Major Appliances
Before you spend big money on a major appliance, do your research. Online sources like Consumer Reports offer a wealth of information and strategies for getting the best deal on a quality machine.
In addition to the shelf life of appliances, your gutters have a shelf life, too! Aluminum gutters, when maintained properly, can last at least 20 years. Ned Stevens even offers a 20-year guarantee on the materials when we install and maintain your gutters. One key component to getting the most out of your gutters is regular gutter cleaning and maintenance. Schedule a gutter cleaning today.
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