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.
Tags : appliances, replacing appliances, saving money, home. home upgrades, home appliances, home improvements, how long appliances last
 January 27 at 8:00am · Share
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