How Long Should a Washing Machine Last?

In contemporary households, washing machines have become indispensable appliances - tirelessly cleaning the soiled clothes that pile up on a weekly basis. However,  washing machines aren’t built to last forever. Just like any other major home appliance, their performance and reliability gradually decline over time.

Whether you’re dealing with a washer that’s starting to make strange noises, not cleaning clothes like it used to, or simply wondering how long yours will hold up, it’s very important to understand the average life expectancy of a washing machine. Understanding the average life expectancy is vital for planning any necessary replacements and budgeting properly for appliances that meet your needs. At Town Appliance, we understand that investing in a washer is about more than just features - it’s about finding a solution that supports your lifestyle for years to come. In this article, we’ll break down how long washing machines typically last, the key factors that influence their lifespan, the warning signs that it might be time for a replacement, and simple maintenance tips to help extend your washer’s life and keep it running efficiently. Choosing the right products protects your investment over the years.

Average Lifespan of a Washing Machine

The lifespan of a washing machine is influenced by its type, design, and the way it is used. Typically, washing machines can last anywhere from 10 to 15 years, but this can vary significantly between top-load and front-load models. Understanding the differences helps maintain each appliance better.

Top-Load Washers: This type of machine comes with a vertical drum and a pulsator that moves clothes front-to-back. Their design is simpler-they have few moving parts and use a straightforward mechanical system. This simplicity is a major reason top load washers are so durable. Given the right care, a top load washer should last about 15 years, providing consistent, reliable service for your household laundry demands. These models are popular among families due to their durability and ease of maintenance. Repairs are easier, since there are more accessible components, contributing significantly to the longer lifespan of these appliances.

Front-Load Washers: On the contrary, front-load washers use a side-mounted drum that gently tumbles clothes, offering a more fabric-friendly wash with improved energy and water efficiency. Front-load washers are more prone to moisture buildup around the rubber door seal, which can lead to mold and mildew if not regularly cleaned. But with sustained maintenance, these generally last around 11 years. Regular cleanings and proper use prolong their working condition. With consistent upkeep, front-load washers can typically deliver reliable performance for over a decade.

Town Appliance offers a curated selection of compact and high-capacity washers from trusted brands like LG, Bosch, Whirlpool, and Samsung - ensuring there's a model suited for your space, usage, and preferences.

Factors That Affect Washing Machine Lifespan

Several key factors can significantly impact the lifespan of your washing machine, with usage patterns, maintenance habits, and the type of machine playing crucial roles in how long it will reliably serve your household.

Type of Washing Machine

The type of washer you own often sets the baseline for its durability. Top-load washers, especially those with agitators, are generally known to last longer than front-load models. Their simpler design and vertical drum allow for easier maintenance and less stress on internal components. However, their aggressive agitation can be rougher on clothes. Front-load washers, while more energy- and water-efficient, are susceptible to issues with the rubber door seal. This area tends to trap moisture, making it a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Over time, this can not only create unpleasant odors but also lead to costly repairs that may shorten the machine’s lifespan. Regular checks can prevent this issue.

Usage Frequency and Load Size

How often you use your washing machine is a major determinant of wear and tear. Machines in larger households that run frequent loads endure more strain, which can lead to quicker deterioration of internal parts like the motor and drum bearings. Conversely, machines used occasionally may experience fewer mechanical issues, but can still suffer from neglect, especially if not cleaned or maintained regularly. Overloading the drum puts excess stress on the motor and suspension system, which can result in premature breakdowns. On the other hand, consistently underloading the washer isn’t ideal either, as it leads to inefficient energy and water use.

Water Quality and Detergent Usage

Water quality is another factor often overlooked. Hard water, which contains high mineral content, can lead to lime scale buildup in key components such as the drum and heating elements, reducing efficiency and shortening lifespan. Understanding the different types of laundry detergent and knowing how much detergent to use in washing machine is also critical excess suds from overuse or non-HE detergent in high-efficiency washers can clog parts and cause malfunctions over time. Prolonging your washing machine’s years of service requires attention to water quality and maintenance to prevent wear.

Maintenance Habits

Routine maintenance plays a vital role in extending the life of your washer. Simple practices such as regularly cleaning the drum, checking hoses for leaks, leaving the door open to allow air circulation, and performing periodic deep cleans can prevent the buildup of grime and mildew. Ignoring these steps often leads to the kind of damage that requires expensive repairs - or an early replacement.

By being mindful of these factors, you can significantly influence how well your washer performs and how long it lasts. Avoiding expensive repairs with regular checks and maintenance can prevent reaching the end of the machine’s functional years too soon.

Signs Your Washing Machine May Need Replacement

Recognizing the warning signs of a failing washing machine is crucial for avoiding unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs. Here’s what to look out for:

• Excessive Noise or Vibration: If unusual sounds and excessive vibration during cycles start to happen in your washing machine, there is an internal damage sign that should call your attention, an issue with the drum, motor, or mechanical parts, where immediate attention is needed. These unusual sounds may indicate internal mechanical issues, such as problems with the drum or motor, and should be addressed promptly to avoid further damage.

• Water Leaks: Pooling water is never a good sign near your washing machine. Leaks are often caused by worn-out seals, damaged hoses, or internal component failures - and should be addressed as soon as possible to prevent water damage. Even a tiny leak may bring about significant water damage in the course of time when the appliance is used. It must be fixed and tended to quickly. Also, if you’re wondering why does my washer smell–this might be the reason.

• Inefficient Cleaning: A machine failing to clean your clothes with visible soil or detergent residue is malfunctioning. Such a consequence can come about through a number of factors such as blocked filters, a malfunctioning detergent dispenser, or drainage issues.

• Frequent Breakdowns: If your washer dryer combo is frequently malfunctioning, even after repairs, it’s a clear sign that it’s nearing the end of its life cycle. Continuing to invest in repairs may not be worthwhile compared to replacing the machine.

• Age: Washing machines over 10 years old often start showing signs of wear. If your machine is consistently problematic, it might be more economical to replace it rather than invest in costly repairs.

Town Appliance offers a wide range of Energy Star® certified washers designed to meet your household’s needs.

Tips to Extend the Life of Your Washing Machine

Proper care and maintenance can significantly prolong your washing machine's lifespan:

Simple Maintenance Tips to Extend Your Washer’s Lifespan

• Clean the Drum and Dispensers: Always clean the detergent and drum dispensers regularly to prevent a build-up of residue and mold.

• Inspect Hoses: For signs of wear and leakage, inspect the water inlet and drain hoses. Performing a necessary replacement every couple of years will make certain that unexpected bursts or leaks are avoided.

• Run Maintenance Cycles: A lot of modern washing machines come with a self-cleaning effort to ensure that no scum can build up in the washer. Running proper cleaning every month will keep the washer in good condition.

Correct Detergent Use

• Use High-Efficiency (HE) Detergent: For HE machines, using the appropriate detergent prevents excessive suds, which can harm the machine over time.

• Measure Detergent Accurately: Never, however, use too much detergent again and always check the manufacturer's guidelines as per the right quantity that the machine can hold.

When to Repair vs. Replace Your Washing Machine

Deciding whether to repair or replace your washing machine depends on several factors:

• Cost of Repair vs. Replacement: Replacing the machine may be more advisable if the repair is more expensive than half the price of a brand new model.

• Frequency of Repairs: This pattern of frequent breakdowns often indicates underlying mechanical issues that signal the end of the machine’s effective lifespan, making replacement a cheaper and more reliable option.

• Energy Efficiency: Less energy-efficient with increased years of older models mean higher utility and environmental bills.

To sum it up, yes, washing machines are designed to last, but whether they do or not can take quite a few variables into account -- type, use, and maintenance for example. By staying ahead of signs of wear and performing regular maintenance, you can ensure your laundry routine remains smooth and efficient. When it’s time for a new washing machine, trust Town Appliance for a wide selection of top-load and front-load washers from leading brands like LG, Samsung, Whirlpool, and more.