How Long Do Home Appliances Last? Complete Lifespan Guide

Most homeowners don't think about appliance lifespan until something breaks. A refrigerator stops cooling, a dishwasher stops draining, or a washing machine starts leaking — and suddenly you're forced into an expensive emergency replacement.

Understanding how long appliances last helps homeowners avoid surprise failures, plan replacement timelines, and make smarter repair decisions.

This guide covers average appliance lifespan by type, when to replace or repair appliances, appliance replacement cost estimates, maintenance tips that extend appliance life, and how to budget for appliance replacement.