Every homeowner knows the value of their household appliances. From keeping your food fresh to ensuring your clothes are clean, these machines play a pivotal role in our daily lives. But how long can you expect them to last? And more importantly, how can you extend their lifespan? Our experts at BIG Warranties, are here to guide you through the ins and outs of appliance longevity.

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Ways to make your appliances last longer

We understand that you want to get the most out of your appliances, so our experts have shared their top general tips to maximise the lifespan of your appliances:

1. Research before you buy: Invest in high-quality appliances with good reliability ratings to ensure they are built to last.
2. Keep appliances clean: Regularly clean and maintain your appliances according to the manufacturer's instructions to prevent dirt and grime build-up that can affect performance.
3. Regular maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance according to the manufacturer's recommendations. This may include changing filters, cleaning coils, and inspecting for wear and tear.‍
4. Follow the instructions: Always follow your appliances' instructions manual for usage, maintenance, and load capacities to avoid unnecessary wear and tear.
5. Insure your appliances: With a BIG Appliance policy you can ensure the longevity of your appliances with no excess on repairs* when they breakdown, plus we'll contribute to replacements if they're beyond repair!

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Below, our experts have taken a closer look at some of your pivotal, everyday appliances to help you prolong their longevity:

Washing machines

The average washing machine serves households for about 8 to 12 years. This range is influenced by several factors:

Usage: Machines used daily may wear out faster than those used less frequently.

Load: Consistently overloading the machine strains its components.

Maintenance: Regularly cleaning detergent trays and checking hoses can prevent common issues.

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Tumble dryers

Tumble dryers, on average, have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. Their longevity is shaped by:

Ventilation: Properly vented dryers operate more efficiently and safely - ensure you have space for air to properly circulate around your appliance.

Maintenance: Regularly removing lint ensures the machine doesn't overheat, a common cause of wear.

Load: Just like washing machines, overloading can strain the motor and reduce its lifespan.
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Dishwashers

Dishwashers typically run efficiently for 8 to 10 years. Factors influencing this include:

Usage: Running a dishwasher continuously at its maximum capacity can reduce its lifespan.

Maintenance: Regularly cleaning the filter and checking the spinning arms ensures optimal performance.

Water quality: Hard water can lead to mineral build up, affecting the machine's efficiency.
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Ovens

Ovens, depending on their type (gas or electric), can last between 10 to 20 years. Their lifespan is influenced by:

Usage: Commercial-grade usage at home can reduce your ovens lifespan.

Maintenance: Regular cleaning prevents residue build up, which can affect heating elements and overall efficiency.

Calibration: Ensuring the oven's temperature is calibrated correctly can prevent overheating and undercooking, maintaining its efficiency.

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Cookers

Combining both an oven and a hob, cookers' longevity mirrors that of standalone ovens but requires attention to both components:

Maintenance: Regular cleaning and checking of both the oven and hob components are crucial.

Usage: Using all components simultaneously and frequently can lead to faster wear.

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Microwaves

Microwaves, with their rapid heating capability, typically last between 7 to 10 years. Their longevity is shaped by:

Usage: Frequent usage at high power settings can reduce its lifespan.

Maintenance: Ensuring the turntable is functioning and the door seals correctly can prevent common issues.

Care: Avoiding running the microwave empty or with metal objects can prevent damage.

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Hobs

Hobs, whether gas, electric, or induction, have varying lifespans, but proper care can ensure they serve you efficiently for years:

Maintenance: Regular cleaning prevents residue build up, which can affect heating efficiency.

Usage: Using all burners or zones simultaneously and frequently can lead to faster wear.

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Fridge Freezers

Fridge freezers can last anywhere between 10 to 20 years, with their longevity influenced by:

Temperature Settings: Ensuring optimal settings prevents overworking the compressor, so be mindful not to leave your fridge open for too long when retrieving items - or placing warm food in your fridge.

Maintenance: Regularly defrosting (for non-frost-free models) and cleaning the coils can maintain efficiency.

Placement: Keeping them away from heat sources and ensuring adequate ventilation can prolong their life.

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Understanding the factors that influence the lifespan of our everyday appliances empowers us to care for them better. With knowledge and a bit of attention, these machines can serve us efficiently for years. And with BIG Warranties by your side, you have the assurance of protection, come what may.

For comprehensive appliance insurance that stands by you, trust BIG Warranties. Secure your peace of mind today with appliance insurance.

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*If claiming more than 30 days after the start of your policy.