Tips to Extend the Life of Your Kitchen Appliances

Your appliances keep your meals fresh, clean, and delicious, but they can also take a beating. With a little care, you can help them last longer and save yourself from the hassle (and expense) of repairs or replacements. Here’s everything you need to know to make your kitchen appliances go the distance.

Why Extend the Life Expectancy Of Kitchen Appliances?

Kitchen appliances aren’t cheap, so getting the most out of them is just smart. Simple steps—like cleaning your refrigerator coils or not overloading your dishwasher—can add years to their lifespan. Plus, well-maintained cooking appliances use less energy, so you’ll save money on your utility bills, too.

💡 Looking for more information about appliance repairs? Check out our related blog: Home Appliance Repair Services: What To Look For

How to Extend the Life of Kitchen Appliances

Let’s break it down by the appliances you rely on most:

How to Extend the Life of Your Refrigerator

Refrigerators typically last 10–15 years, but small adjustments can help them run longer:

• Clean the Coils: Dust buildup behind your fridge makes it work harder. Vacuum the coils every six months.

• Keep the Door Seals Tight: If the seals around the door are cracked or loose, your fridge leaks cold air. Test with a piece of paper—if it slides out easily, it’s time to replace the seal.

• Don’t Overstuff: A jam-packed fridge blocks airflow and strains the compressor. Leave some space for air to circulate.

💡 Product Spotlight: The Café Smart 4-door French Door Refrigerator (Model: CJE23DM5WS5) has adjustable shelves and built-in temperature sensors that make it easier to keep your food fresh while maximizing energy efficiency.

How to Extend the Life of Your Dishwasher

Dishwashers have an average lifespan of 7–12 years, but poor habits can cut that short. Here’s how to keep it running:

• Scrape, Don’t Rinse: Pre-rinsing dishes might seem helpful, but it confuses your dishwasher’s sensors. Scrape off big food bits and let the machine do its job.

• Run Hot Water First: Before starting a load, run your kitchen faucet until the water gets hot. This helps the dishwasher clean better without overworking.

• Clean the Filter: Every few months, remove the filter (check your manual!) and rinse it under running water. A clogged filter can lead to buildup and strain the motor.

💡 Product Spotlight: The GE Profile Top Control Dishwasher (Model: PDP715SYVFS) has advanced spray arms and bottle jets that target hard-to-reach areas, helping you clean efficiently without overloading your machine.

How to Extend the Life of Your Oven & Range

Key cooking appliances, like your oven or range, should last about 10–20 years with proper care. Here’s how to keep them in top shape:

• Wipe Up Spills Immediately: Grease and spills can damage heating elements and cause smoke. Clean up as soon as your oven cools.

• Don’t Slam the Door: Slamming can misalign the door and reduce heat retention, making your oven less efficient.

• Check the Burner Flames: For gas ranges, the flames should be blue. Clean the burner or call for a tune-up if they're yellow or uneven.

💡 Product Spotlight: The Thermador Double Steam Wall Oven (Model: PODS302B) offers 17 heating modes and the largest steam capacity on the market.

Appliance Maintenence Checklist

Setting up your appliances the right way can save you a lot of headaches down the line. Ready to get started? Check these off your list:

✅ Read the Manual
Sure, it’s not thrilling, but your manual is packed with pro tips to keep your appliance running like a champ.

✅ Plug into a Surge Protector
Keep power surges from frying your fridge or range's delicate electronics. A surge protector is your appliance’s best friend.

✅ Level Things Out
Nobody likes a wobbly appliance! Uneven machines can vibrate, wear out faster, and even malfunction. Grab a level and get everything straightened out.

How Much Can You Extend the Kitchen Appliance Lifespan?

With consistent care, you can add 3–5 years to most kitchen appliances. Think of it as an investment in your home. A little effort now can save you thousands in replacement costs down the road.

Keep Your Appliances Running Strong

Don’t let worn-out appliances slow you down in the kitchen. Now that you know how to extend the life expectancy of kitchen appliances, visit DeWaard & Bode today to explore our wide selection of premium cooking appliances. 

We proudly carry trusted brands like Café, GE, and Wolf, along with other high-quality kitchen appliances to enhance your home.

Contact us or visit one of our appliance stores in Bellingham or Burlington, Washington, to speak with our appliance experts. We’ll help you choose appliances that make cooking easier and extend the life of your appliances. We also offer flexible appliance financing to help you build your dream kitchen!

Related readings from our blog:

• Should I Buy Scratch And Dent Appliances?

• The Benefits Of Owning A Double Oven: Tips, Tricks, And Recipes

• The Most Reliable Refrigerators For Your Kitchen

FAQs: Kitchen Appliance Lifespan

1. How often should I deep clean appliances?

Deep clean appliances every 3–6 months. High-use appliances like refrigerators and ovens may need cleaning more often, while others like dishwashers benefit from monthly maintenance.

2. How do you descale an appliance?

Mix water and vinegar or use a descaling solution, then run it through the appliance or let it soak for 15–30 minutes. Rinse thoroughly with clean water. Descale every 1–3 months, depending on water hardness.

3. What is the life expectancy of a microwave?

Microwaves last about 7–10 years. Keep the interior clean, avoid running it empty, and use microwave-safe containers to extend its lifespan.

4. What are the 4 types of preventive maintenance?

The main types are time-based (scheduled cleaning), usage-based (after specific use), condition-based (when wear appears), and predictive (smart technology alerts).

5. What is the average lifespan of appliances?

Most appliances last 7–15 years. Refrigerators and ranges can last 10–15 years, dishwashers 7–12 years, and microwaves 7–10 years. Regular maintenance can extend these lifespans.