How Long Do Home Appliances Last? (Appliance Lifespan + RUL Guide)
The most accurate 2026 lifespan chart — plus how to predict replacements before they happen.
Every appliance has an expected lifespan. Knowing these numbers helps you budget for replacements, avoid emergency purchases, and make smarter repair-vs-replace decisions. But manufacturer estimates only tell part of the story.
This guide provides accurate lifespan data for every major home appliance, plus guidance on how to predict failures before they happen using Remaining Useful Life (RUL) calculations and risk scoring.
Kitchen Appliance Lifespans
| Appliance | Average Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 10–18 years | Top-freezer models last longest; smart features may reduce lifespan |
| Dishwasher | 9–12 years | Monthly filter cleaning extends life significantly |
| Gas Range/Oven | 15–20 years | Gas models typically outlast electric |
| Electric Range/Oven | 13–15 years | Induction cooktops may have shorter lifespan |
| Microwave (built-in) | 9–10 years | Over-the-range models typically need earlier replacement |
| Garbage Disposal | 8–12 years | Higher HP models last longer |
Laundry Appliance Lifespans
| Appliance | Average Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Washing Machine (top-load) | 10–14 years | Simpler mechanics = longer lifespan |
| Washing Machine (front-load) | 8–12 years | Gasket mold is a common issue; monthly cleaning extends life |
| Dryer (gas) | 13–15 years | Lint buildup is the #1 cause of early failure |
| Dryer (electric) | 10–13 years | Annual vent cleaning recommended |
HVAC & Water Heater Lifespans
| System | Average Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Furnace (gas) | 15–20 years | Annual service critical; heat exchanger cracks are a safety issue |
| Central Air Conditioner | 12–17 years | Climate and usage affect lifespan significantly |
| Heat Pump | 10–15 years | Year-round use means more wear than single-season systems |
| Water Heater (tank) | 8–12 years | Hard water reduces lifespan; anode rod replacement extends life |
| Water Heater (tankless) | 15–20 years | Requires annual descaling in hard water areas |
Other Home Appliances
| Appliance | Average Lifespan | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Sump Pump | 7–10 years | Critical to test regularly; failure often causes major water damage |
| Water Softener | 10–15 years | Salt-based systems require regular maintenance |
| Dehumidifier | 5–10 years | Continuous use in damp basements shortens lifespan |
| Garage Door Opener | 10–15 years | Belt-drive models tend to last longer than chain-drive |
Early Warning Signs an Appliance Is Nearing Failure
Appliances rarely fail without warning. Watch for these signs:
- ⚠Unusual noises: Grinding, humming, clicking, or buzzing that wasn't there before
- ⚠Longer cycle times: Dishwashers, washers, or dryers taking longer to complete
- ⚠Reduced performance: Fridge not as cold, dryer not fully drying, HVAC struggling to maintain temperature
- ⚠Increased energy bills: Sudden jumps may indicate failing efficiency
- ⚠Frequent repairs: If you've repaired it twice in the last year, replacement is likely smarter
- ⚠Visible wear: Rust, corrosion, cracks, or damaged seals
- ⚠Age beyond expected lifespan: If it's older than average, start planning replacement
Repair vs. Replace: The 40% Rule
Use this simple rule to decide whether to repair or replace an appliance:
If the repair cost exceeds 40% of the replacement cost, and the appliance is more than halfway through its expected lifespan, replace it.
This rule accounts for the reality that older appliances are more likely to need additional repairs soon. A $400 repair on a 10-year-old $800 dishwasher rarely makes sense — you'll likely face another repair within a year or two.
How HomeLifeSpan Predicts Appliance Failure Before It Happens
HomeLifeSpan goes beyond static lifespan charts. It actively predicts when your appliances are likely to fail:
Appliance Age Tracking
Automatically calculates how old each appliance is and where it falls in its lifespan.
Remaining Useful Life (RUL)
Shows how many years each appliance likely has left based on category data and your specific installation date.
Failure Risk Score
Each appliance gets a risk score (low, medium, high) so you can prioritize planning and budgeting.
Cost Trends
Track repair spending over time — useful for identifying appliances that are becoming money pits.
Replacement Planner
Forecast upcoming replacements and estimated costs over the next 1–5 years.
Home Risk Score
A single score that reflects your home's overall risk — great for budgeting and peace of mind.
For Landlords & Property Investors
Managing appliances across multiple units multiplies complexity. HomeLifeSpan helps landlords and property managers:
- •Track appliances across all units: See every appliance, its age, and risk level in one dashboard.
- •Forecast CapEx: Know what replacements are coming across your portfolio and when.
- •Protect cash flow: Avoid surprise expenses by planning replacements during low-cost periods.
- •Improve tenant satisfaction: Proactive replacement means fewer emergency calls and happier tenants.
Know Which Appliances Will Fail Next — And When
Start planning at HomeLifeSpan. Track your appliances, see remaining useful life, and get ahead of expensive surprises. Free forever for homeowners.