The 411 on Appliance Lifespans

As winter wears on and you find yourself spending more time indoors, you may be noticing little things around the house that you normally wouldn't.

The worn-away grout in your bathroom.

The drafts coming from your doors and windows.

Your old, out-dated appliances.

Blame it on one-too-many HDTV reruns, but, if you find yourself wondering whether it's time to upgrade or not, here are the guidelines:

Dishwasher... 9 years.

Average cost to replace: $240-$700.

If you want to keep your dishwasher in good condition,

Microwave... 11 years.

Average cost to replace: $300-$700.

Oven/Range... 17 years (electric)/19 years (gas).

Average cost to replace: $300-$1,500 depending on model.

Refrigerator... 14-17 years.

Cost to replace: $350-$2,000+.

Washer/Dryer... 13-14 years.

Cost to replace: $500-$2,000+ for a set. Gulp.

Want to make your appliances last until their golden years? Follow these tips from This Old House:

Clean the condenser coils on refrigerators annually.
Change air-conditioner filters monthly during the operating season.
Replace washer fill hoses every five years; turn off the water supply when away for an extended period. Drain hoses if below-freezing temperatures are expected.
Inspect and clean the exhaust duct on the clothes dryer at least once a year, and clean the lint filter before each use.
Don't allow heavy grease buildup on the oven interior.

Also -- while those old, white appliances might not be as fancy as the brand-new stainless steel machines on TV, take heart! Older appliances have been proven to boast a longer lifespan than newer models.

Photo Credits: Nancy Hugo, Remodeled Kitchen | Nancy Hugo, French Country Kitchen | Deidre Woollard, Washer/Dryer at Dwell on Design.

Sources: Consumer Reports, Make Your Washer and Dryer Last | This Old House, How Long Stuff Lasts | Wired, The End of the Throwaway Appliance.

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