How to Make Your Kitchen Appliances Last Longer and Work Better

We often take our everyday appliances for granted. However, when the ice machine finally stops working, or the dishwasher sputters to a soapy halt, it can put a real damper on things. Which begs the question—what’s the trick to making these kitchen appliances last longer?

Nowadays, it's often lamented that ovens and refrigerators just aren't “built like they used to be." In reality, there are ways to extend the lifespan of modern appliances—if you take the proper steps. Ahead, see what we learned about appliance longevity, straight from the pros.

How Long Do Modern Appliances Last?

Modern kitchen appliances typically last anywhere from eight to 15 years, but choosing exceptional brands and maintaining consistent upkeep can extend that lifespan. Appliances of yesteryear, on the other hand, were often built to last several decades—sometimes 30 years or more—due to their simpler mechanics and more durable materials. 

“Several factors influence an appliance's longevity, including how often it's used, how well it's maintained, the quality of the brand or model, installation quality, and even environmental factors like humidity, ventilation, or power surges,” says Marc Makowsky, owner of Ace Appliance Repair.

Here’s what you can typically expect in terms of lifespan for common household appliances, according to Makowsky: 

• Refrigerators: 10 to 15 years
• Dishwashers: 8 to 12 years
• Garbage disposals: 8 to 12 years
• Freezers (standalone): 12 to 20 years
• Microwaves: 7 to 10 years
• Ovens/Ranges (gas or electric): 13 to 20 years

How to Make Kitchen Appliances Last Longer 

While today’s kitchen appliances typically don't last as long as those from previous generations, there are still ways you can extend their life. Follow these expert tips to maximize performance.

Clean Them Regularly (and Thoroughly) 

All kitchen appliances require routine cleaning—even those that help you clean, like dishwashers or garbage disposals. This process should extend beyond mere wipe downs.

“Clogged filters and vents make appliances work harder, which increases wear and tear and raises energy consumption,” Makowsky says. “A 5 minute cleaning once a month can make a major difference in performance and lifespan.” 

For instance, dishwashers with dirty filters can’t drain properly, or may leave an odor or grime on your dishes; garbage disposal blades with built-up grime have to work harder and strain the motor.

“For fridges and freezers, if condenser coils are dirty, then they have to work harder to cool efficiently," says Denis David, home repair expert for Home Alliance. "You should clean this more often if you have furry pets or live in a dusty area.” 

Follow the Instruction Manual 

Your appliances come with care instructions, and it’s important to follow the manual. (If you tossed it already, you can look up the appliance online and find care instructions.) These detail everything from ideal load to weight limits and detergent recommendations. 

“Overloading will lead to excessive wear and lead to more frequent repairs,” David says. “Appliances are tested to perform optimally within the weight limits, so ensure you know the recommended load size for your washer.” 

For example, overcrowding your dishwasher can block spray arms and reduce cleaning efficiency, while stuffing your fridge can restrict airflow and strain the compressor. Even using the wrong type of detergent or cleaner—like dish soap in a dishwasher or harsh abrasives on cooktops—can damage components over time. 

Complete Seasonal Checkups 

A quick seasonal walkthrough is a great way to keep appliances in good shape. “Check door seals for wear, make sure vents aren’t blocked, and listen for any unusual noises during operation,” says Hannah Pregont, appliance expert and director at AjMadison. “For deeper maintenance, consider booking a yearly service visit, especially for appliances like refrigerators and dishwashers.”

Often, without an expert eye, it can be easy to miss early signs of deterioration or failure. 

Fix Any Issues Immediately 

It’s tempting to put off a repair—especially if you’re worried about the bill—but in many cases, the issue will just get worse over time, and the repair cost will be higher.

David recommends addressing the issue immediately and hiring someone familiar with the appliance's make and model. They’ll be able to fix the problem and catch any other issues. 

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Consider Other Factors

In addition to cleaning and addressing any issues directly related to an appliance, it's important to consider other factors in your home that may impact performance. These include: 

• Hard water: “If you have hard water, then a water softener is a must. Water inlet valves and water filters get clogged, which causes other components to fail,” David says. 
• Wonky electrical systems: Power surges or unstable electrical supply can wear down your appliances. “It's always better and cheaper to have a surge protector installed rather than changing electrical components of your appliances,” David says. “Line fuses don't always help, unfortunately; a surge protector is the safest option.”
• Pets: Your little furball is adorable, but they’re also shedding machines that can potentially clog up appliance vents. “It's necessary to have your ducts serviced at least once per year, and more often if you have furry pets," says David.
• Extreme climates: High humidity can potentially lead to excess moisture buildup, which may cause rust or mold in appliances like refrigerators, microwaves, and dishwashers. Conversely, ultra-dry environments can crack rubber seals and gaskets, especially in colder climates where indoor air is frequently heated. Add a humidifier or dehumidifier accordingly.