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The Lifespan of Major Home Appliances

Be it ever so humble, there’s no place like home. You’ve transformed your household into an oasis to escape from the struggles of the day. However, you have to brace yourself as a homeowner for when some of your major appliances may be in need of a tune-up or a total replacement. Here are a few things to know about the lifespan of those appliances, as well as what you can do to make sure you get the most out of your machines.

Air Conditioning and Heating

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Window unit air conditioners usually last about eight to 10 years, while your home’s heater can last depending on your boiler, which can go anywhere from 10–12 years on average. However, homeowners have found that an HVAC system is a sound investment to bring in that cool air during the summer and that warm air in the winter. On average, HVAC units last 15–25 years. While that’s a long time, HVAC systems don’t last forever.

It’s important to invest in an annual inspection by an HVAC technician. This will make sure you are getting the most out of the unit in terms of energy efficiency. This will also survey the ductwork for any cracks that could be leaking refrigerant or making room for unwelcomed guests. Preventive maintenance can make sure a system is good for the long run, replacing dirty air filters and preventing clogs that can lead to equipment burnout.

Refrigerators

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Most refrigerators are built to last a decade, but issues can arise from a lack of care that can lead to needed fixes during that time. If you find yourself Googling “refrigerator repair in Honolulu“, it may be because your fridge isn’t keeping as cold as you’re used to. Oftentimes, the condenser or condenser coil on a refrigerator can suffer from backup or cracks that require replacement parts to be installed.

Regular cleaning behind the fridge and within the unit can save you in the long run, even if you need to repair vents or fan motors. This will extend the lifespan of the refrigerator. If the breaks become persistent, that’s when it’s time to consider moving beyond from a repair service and to splurge for a new refrigerator.

Washers and Dryers

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Washers and dryers can last around a decade with proper care and routine maintenance. One of the easiest tipoffs to knowing it’s time for repairs to these units is in monitoring your clothes. If you notice the dryer isn’t drying or the washing machine isn’t getting stains out, there are some quick fixes that could keep you from having to break for a new system.

When it comes to dryers, you need to make sure to clean the lint traps after each use. This will make sure that clogs don’t emerge in the ducts from dust, creating the risk of a fire. Washing machines must also be regularly cleaned out to prevent the building of bacteria and odors within the unit. It’s also important not to overload a washer, causing the drum to come off balance.

Dishwashers

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Your dishwasher is taken for granted, sparing you from having to scrub and dry your plates and cutlery. Dishwashers usually last a decade, but some manufacturers claim with proper care they can last 20 years. It’s all a matter of not overloading the system, and also making sure to clean off anything that goes inside the unit.

Homeowners may assume that you can put a crudded-up pan or pot inside the dishwasher. However, you need to remove as much food as possible to prevent clogs that will keep from a cycle actually happening. You should also use cleaning agents on a regular basis to help better clean out the system.