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    Appliance Lifespan

    Repair or replace? Know the limits.

    Average lifespans

    • Refrigerator — 13 years.
    • Dishwasher — 9 years.
    • Microwave — 9 years.
    • Range / oven — 13-15 years.
    • Washing machine — 10 years.
    • Dryer — 13 years.
    • Water heater — 10-15 years.
    • HVAC — 15-20 years.

    Repair-or-replace rule

    • If repair > 50% of new price = replace.
    • If appliance > 75% of life = replace.
    • Repeated repairs same year = replace.
    • Energy savings new appliance.
    • Otherwise repair makes sense.
    • Get estimate first.

    Easy DIY fixes

    • Refrigerator coil cleaning yearly.
    • Dryer lint trap every load.
    • Dryer vent yearly (fire hazard).
    • Dishwasher filter clean monthly.
    • Garbage disposal — ice + lemon.
    • Microwave + range — vinegar wipe.

    When to call repair person

    • Strange noises.
    • Leaking water.
    • Burning smell.
    • Won't start.
    • Inconsistent temperature.
    • $80-150 service call typical.

    Senior-friendly buying

    • French door fridge (less bending).
    • Front-load washer (no reach down).
    • Wall oven mid-height (no bending).
    • Induction range — safer.
    • Larger displays + buttons.
    • Voice control (Alexa-compatible).

    Save money

    • Costco / Lowes during holiday sales.
    • Open-box / scratch-and-dent — 30% off.
    • Used appliances Facebook Marketplace.
    • Energy Star = lower utility bills.
    • Tax credit some efficient models.
    • Brand: Bosch, GE, Whirlpool reliable.

    Old appliance disposal

    Most retailers haul away old when delivering new — free. Or city pickup ($25). Some appliance recycling — Best Buy, Home Depot. Avoid leaving on curb (illegal). Donate working ones to Habitat for Humanity ReStore. Goodwill takes some. Don't waste working appliances.