What appliances break down the most and why?
Steven E / Monday November 11, 2024
Whether it’s the fridge or the blender, it seems like certain appliances have to be replaced more often than others. So, which appliances are the biggest troublemakers? We’re here to help you understand what’s normal for your machine.
If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.
Important: The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for all types of appliances, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in design. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the use and care manual for your specific appliance model.
What appliances break down the most?
Appliances that experience heavy daily use tend to wear out more quickly, resulting in higher breakdown rates. Some appliances that commonly break down include:
Refrigerators
About 40% of refrigerators have problems within five years, with the most common issues being the ice maker not working, the machine leaking, or the machine not cooling properly. Refrigerators need to work harder in the summer to keep food cool, which can lead to more breakdowns.
Washing machines
About 30% of washing machines have problems within five years, with the most common issues being the drum not spinning properly, mold on front-loaders, or the machine not draining. Washing machines can break down because of the nature of their work, such as the spin cycle and water contact.
Dishwashers
About 30% of dishwashers have problems within five years, with the most common issues being the control panel not working properly, the dishwasher not drying properly, or the dishwasher not cleaning properly.
Garbage disposals
Garbage disposals usually start to wear out after about 12 years, but can be made to last longer with proper care. You can prevent breakdowns by not putting non-food items down the sink, and by avoiding hard or fibrous objects like corn stalks, chicken bones, and fruit pits.
Read more: When Is It Time to Buy a New Appliance vs. Fix It?
Which refrigerator style is most reliable?
When it comes to refrigerator longevity, top-freezer refrigerators are generally considered the most reliable. Here’s why:
- Simpler design: Top-freezer refrigerators generally have fewer parts and features compared to other styles like French door or side-by-side models. Fewer moving parts mean fewer things can break.
- Proven track record: This style has been around for decades, and manufacturers have perfected their designs, making them more durable over time.
- Less expensive to repair: In case of a breakdown, repairs tend to be less costly because the technology involved is simpler.
- Energy efficiency: Top-freezer refrigerators often have fewer additional features, like water dispensers or ice makers, which can fail.
Bottom-freezer models are also known to be fairly reliable, but the more complex designs like French door and side-by-side refrigerators are often prone to more frequent issues due to additional features like ice makers and water dispensers.
Which washer style is most reliable?
When it comes to washing machine reliability, top-loading washers are generally considered more reliable than front-loading washers. Here’s why:
- Simpler mechanism: Traditional top-loading washers use an agitator to clean clothes, which is a simpler, time-tested design. Fewer parts mean fewer potential points of failure.
- Lower maintenance: Front-loaders, while more efficient in water and energy usage, are prone to issues like mold and mildew buildup in the door gasket, which top-loaders usually avoid.
- Durability: Top-load washers with agitators tend to last longer and are less prone to problems with the door seals, balancing, or drum, which are more common in front-loaders.
- Lower repair costs: Repairs for top-loading washers are generally less expensive, as the parts and labor for fixing them are simpler compared to front-loading machines.
Are gas or electric appliances less likely to break down?
In general, gas appliances tend to be less likely to break down compared to electric appliances. Here’s why:
1. Simplicity of design
- Gas appliances like ovens, dryers, and water heaters have simpler mechanisms. They rely on burners and basic ignition systems, which are typically durable and easy to maintain.
- Electric appliances tend to have more complex electrical parts, such as heating elements, electronic controls, and thermostats, which are more prone to failure.
2. Energy source
- Gas systems generally rely on a continuous, steady fuel source (natural gas or propane) and are less affected by power surges or fluctuations that can damage electric appliances.
- Electric appliances are more vulnerable to power outages, surges, or electrical issues, which can lead to breakdowns or malfunctions.
Overall, gas appliances have a slight edge in reliability, particularly for ovens and dryers, but the decision between gas and electric should also factor in safety, available hookups, and personal preferences.
Read more: Don’t Trash It! Your Ultimate Guide to Appliance Recycling
The average lifespan of home appliances
- Refrigerator: 10–15 years
- Dishwasher: 7–12 years
- Gas stove: 15–20 years
- Electric stove: 13–15 years
- Microwave: 7–10 years
- Garbage Disposal: 10–12 years
- Range Hood: 10–15 years
- Washing Machine: 10–12 years
- Dryer: 10–13 years
- Air Conditioner: 10–15 years
- Dehumidifier: 8–12 years
- Vacuum Cleaner: 8–12 years
- Coffee Maker: 5–10 years
- Toaster: 5–8 years
- Blender: 7–10 years
Read more: How to Protect Your Appliances in a Power Outage
Additional information
Thanks for reading! If you need replacement parts for any of your appliances, check out AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can enter your model number to find exactly what you’re looking for. Most orders arrive in two business days, and we have thousands of free resources to show you how to install your new parts.
You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel.
With nearly a decade of experience in providing top-notch customer service regarding appliance parts and repair, Steven enjoys sharing practical advice, troubleshooting tips, and interesting information to help readers stay informed.