When Should You Replace Your Kitchen Appliances

Even with proper maintenance and upkeep, kitchen appliances have a defined lifespan. So, when is it time to replace an appliance? While replacing appliances can be pricey, it’s better to know ahead of time to help you budget for the large purchase. Since you may use them every day, you may also need to plan ahead while they are getting replaced.

When Should You Replace Your Microwave? 

Your smaller appliances, such as your microwave, may need to be replaced more frequently. Depending on your model of microwave, it could last anywhere from 2 to 5 or more years. If you are noticing any of these signs with your microwave, they may be a red flag to start shopping for a new one:

• Controls not working like they should
• Odd electrical smells
• Food is taking longer to heat up
• Odd noises
• Replacing parts every few months

When Should You Replace Your Oven? 

It’s not uncommon for an oven to last 10 or more years. That being said, if you have had any of these issues with your oven, it may be time to start shopping for a new one:

• Oven is taking longer than normal to preheat
• Food is baking unevenly
• Leaking heat through a broken door seal
• Odd electrical smells
• Rust buildup on outside of oven
• You’ve needed to make repeated repairs on your oven

When Should You Replace Your Dishwasher? 

For many busy households, a dishwasher is a non-negotiable staple. A good rule of thumb is that a dishwasher should last 10 years or more, although models can vary. Below are some signs that your dishwasher may be nearing the end of its service in your home:

• Dishes remaining dirty after a complete wash cycle
• Dishwasher door not latching properly
• Water leaking from dishwasher
• Visible rust on the outside
• Standing water left in the dishwasher at the end of a cycle
• A loud grinding noise
• Dishes are cold when they would normally be warm at the end of a cycle

Dishwasher Maintenance Tips 

• Scrape your dishes to remove as much food residue as possible before loading them in the dishwasher
• Check arms and jets inside of the dishwasher for blockages from hard water or food debris
• Leave the door open after running the dishwasher to help prevent mold and mildew from growing inside
• Look up your make and model dishwasher to see how you can run a cleaning cycle

When Should You Replace Your Refrigerator? 

Depending on your model of refrigerator, it should last anywhere from 10 to 15 years or more. Here are some red flag signs that your refrigerator may be on its way out.

• Food spoiling faster than normal
• Condensation inside your refrigerator
• A rising electric bill with no other new usage
• A new grinding noise
• Leaking water coming from the appliance
• Ice buildup inside of your freezer

Simple Ways to Maintain Your Refrigerator 

• Clean the door seals regularly and test for a tight fit
• Remove the front grille and vacuum the coils regularly
• Replace water filters according to manufacturer guidelines
• Use a level to check that the refrigerator is balanced
• Leave space between items and do not overpack your refrigerator  

While Your At It, Shop Insurance Quotes for Your Home 

Requesting an insurance quote for your home is as simple as filling out our form here. If you would prefer to call someone to start the quoting process, you can find a list of our office phone numbers here. With offices in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Florida, your local office may be closer than you think.

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This article is for general informational purposes only and is not to be relied upon or used for any particular purpose. Cross Insurance shall not be held responsible in any way for, and specifically disclaims any liability arising out of or in any way connected to, reliance on or use of any of the information contained in this article. The information contained or referenced in this article is not intended to constitute and should not be considered legal, insurance, accounting or other professional advice, nor shall it serve as a substitute for the recipient obtaining such advice. The views expressed in this article are that of its author and do not necessarily represent the views of Cross Financial Corp. and its subsidiaries and affiliates (“Cross Insurance”) or Cross Insurance’s management or shareholders.