Home ownership costs

How Long Should Home Appliances Last?

Planning guidance reviewed: August 2026

Planning ranges, not promises: actual life depends on brand, build quality, installation, usage, maintenance, water quality, ventilation and repair history. Treat the numbers below as budgeting ranges rather than predicted failure dates.

Typical planning ranges

Repair or replace?

Age alone should not decide it. Compare repair cost with replacement cost, consider warranty status and energy use, check whether parts remain available, and think about whether one failure is likely to be followed by another.

Try the Repair or Replace planner →

Signs an upgrade may make sense

Current upgrade categories to compare

Refrigerator

Counter-depth French-door models can improve kitchen traffic and storage access, but check actual usable capacity, dimensions and service options before buying.

Compare refrigerators at Home Depot →

Washer and dryer

Modern front-load and high-efficiency laundry sets can offer larger capacity, better sensing and flexible installation. Measure doors, hallways, hookups and venting before ordering.

Compare washers and dryers at Home Depot →

Range

If a range is nearing the end of its life, compare conventional electric, gas and induction based on the home's existing electrical or gas service, ventilation and cooking preferences.

Compare ranges at Home Depot →

Dishwasher

Noise level, rack flexibility, drying performance, fit and serviceability are often more important than adding every smart feature.

Compare dishwashers at Home Depot →

Make appliance replacement part of the home budget

Keep a simple list of appliance purchase dates, model numbers and warranties. If several major appliances were installed at the same time, assume their replacement windows may overlap and build that into the household maintenance reserve.

Prices, reviews and availability change. Verify current specifications and customer feedback on the retailer page before purchasing.