How long should a washer last? Whether you’re in the market for one of the best washing machines, need some expert advice on how to make yours last longer or want to know when it’s time to buy a new one, we’ve got you covered.
Washing machines are one of the most frequently used appliances in the home, and that’s why it’s helpful to know how long a washer should last. They can pack up when you least expect it regardless of whether the machine is new or old, although if you're already a few years into using your washer daily then you're going to be on a countdown timer until it inevitably develops a fault.
We caught up with several appliance experts to gauge the lifespan of a washing machine, how to make the machine last longer and when you should ultimately be looking at replacing it.
How long should washers last?
A washing machine typically lasts around 10-13 years, Glenn Lewis, president of Mr. Appliance, a Neighborly company, told Top Ten Reviews. “Factors that affect how long it will last includes how many loads you wash a week and the type of clothing you are washing,” says Lewis, “and its lifespan can be shortened if you don’t do the routine maintenance the manufacturer recommends.”
The type of washer you own could also impact its longevity. Top load washers tend to last longer than front loaders as they use less water and have faster spinning speeds, making them more efficient. As a general rule top load washers last up to 14 years while front load washers may only last for ten.
A washer dryer combo works harder compared with a standalone washing machine, so expect these to not last as long. The average lifespan will vary depending on different factors, including brand, model, how you use it and how well you maintain it but it should be for around seven years.
Glenn Lewis is president of Mr. Appliance, North America’s leading appliance repair franchise providing customers with full-service residential and light commercial appliance repair. He is responsible for the overall leadership and growth of Mr. Appliance throughout the US and Canada.
James Peters, Director of Product Management at Kenmore, America's home solutions provider, adds: “How long a washing machine lasts depends on several factors, including usage, habits and maintenance."
“By following the guidelines in the owner’s manual you can understand best practices for everyday use, which will help you maximise the performance and longevity of your washing machine. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the drum and seals, and avoiding overloading, can also significantly extend its lifespan.”
James Peters is a Director of Product Management at Kenmore, an American brand of household appliances and other home items. With a strong background in e-Commerce and brick-and-mortar retail, James has a proven track record in driving business success.
Do more expensive washers last longer?
A cheap washer might have a low energy efficiency rating meaning it ends up costing you more in bills in the long term because it costs a lot to run, while an overly expensive one could have an inflated price tag because it’s made by a reputable brand. While a pricey washer might give you more features to enjoy, it doesn’t necessarily equate to a long lifespan.
With that said, looking out for a washing machine deal throughout the year will help you to find a machine with lower energy efficiency ratings, all those smart features and be from a well-known brand. This will help you to get more bang for your buck and likely a longer warranty if parts of the machine has been tested for up to 20 years, or so. Brands such as LG (tested for up to 10 years) and Samsung (tested for up to 20 years) would be worth looking out for in the sales.
When should I replace my washer?
If your clothes come out of the machine and still aren’t clean, then it’s easy to assume the washer is broken but often it might be time to drain your washing machine or give it a clean.
However if the clothes keep coming out of the washer dirty this is a sign there’s a fault. That can most often be fixed by a specialist but when other issues start to pile up this could indicate it is time to replace the washer.
Peters says: “Deciding when to replace a washing machine involves weighing the cost of repair against the cost of a new unit. If the repair costs are high, nearing 50 percent or more of the price of a new machine, it might be more economical to replace it.
“Additionally, consider if there are other potential issues that a service technician might have identified, which could lead to further repairs soon after the current one. The warranty of the replaced part compared to the warranty of the entire new washer also matters; new washers come with full warranties, offering better long-term peace of mind.
Peters says: “Deciding when to replace a washing machine involves weighing the cost of repair against the cost of a new unit. If the repair costs are high, nearing 50 percent or more of the price of a new machine, it might be more economical to replace it."
If your washer is about to die, read on advice our how to move a washing machine.
How to make your washer last longer?
- Regularly cleaning
- Use the correct detergent
- Avoid overloading
- Run a cleaning cycle periodically
Replacing a washing machine is not cheap so to try and prolong the lifespan of your appliance there are various things you can do. One of the simplest tricks to extend the life of your washing machine is proper maintenance, recommends appliances and technology expert Jon Morgan.
“This means not just washing your clothes, but also taking the time to maintain the machine itself. I recommend running a cleaning cycle with hot water and a cup of vinegar or a specialised cleaner once a month. This helps eliminate build-up from detergent and minerals, which can hamper performance over time."
Jon is the CEO and Editor-in-Chief of Venture Smarter, a leading consulting firm that specialises in helping startups and small businesses scale and grow. With over 10 years of experience in the industry, Jon has a wealth of knowledge and expertise in technology, as well as strategic planning and management, market research, finance, sustainability, entrepreneurship and financial analysis.s
Morgan adds: “Another important aspect is not to overload your machine. While it might be tempting to cram in as many clothes as possible, overloading the drum can cause the appliance to work harder and put unnecessary stress on the bearings. This can lead to premature wear and tear, reducing the lifespan of your machine.”
Peters told Top Ten Reviews: “Follow the owner’s manual guidelines, which provide instructions for correct installation, proper loading, and recommended detergent use.
“Regularly clean the drum, seals, and detergent dispenser, and ensure the washer is properly levelled. Adhering to these best practices will help keep your washer in optimal condition and extend its lifespan.”
Mr Appliance’s Lewis added: “Another essential tip for homeowners to keep their washing machine in good condition is to not put repairs off. If something sounds wrong or is just not working like it used to it can often be cheaper to fix your washer when the problem starts. Small problems can lead to big problems as time goes on."
Verdict
If you want to know how long a washer should last, it’ll depend on whether you own a basic one or have a reputable brand that is well-designed and built for longevity. Certain brands, like Speed Queen, claim to build them to last for 25 years, while the average shelf life is 11 years. Avoiding overloading your appliance, regularly cleaning and repairs can extend its lifespan.
The type of washer is significant too—top loaders are more efficient and last longer than front loaders, and all-in-one combo machines need replacing soonest because they work the hardest. It’s worth checking out the warranties of the machines for that extra bit of confidence. For example, Samsung says that their machines are tested for up to 20 years’ of use and this is reflected in their 20-year motor warranty.
