Key points:
- Dishwashers, if well cared for, tend to have a lifespan of 10 years, and can start to show minor issues after five years.
- Repairs for dishwashers may be more than the cost of a new dishwasher so it’s important to weigh up your options and shop around.
- You can extend the lifespan of your dishwasher by using powder detergent, regularly cleaning it and following the maintenance tips from your manufacturer.
If your dishwasher is looking a little worse for wear, you may be wondering how long you should keep it before it’s time for a new one. With a little TLC – and as long as you follow all maintenance instructions – you can potentially extend the life of your dishwasher. But how long should your dishwasher last, and how can you extend its lifespan? Find out with Canstar Blue.
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Dishwasher life expectancy
The life expectancy of most dishwashers is about 10 years, however, many machines start developing minor issues around the five-year mark. That’s why it’s important to ensure your dishwasher keeps running smoothly by keeping it in great condition.
Is it better to repair or replace my dishwasher?
This will depend on what the problem is and the associated costs of repairing it. If your dishwasher is still under warranty, fixing it can be the most cost-effective option. If it’s a quick fix like swapping the door seal, you can easily and economically add a few years to the lifespan of your machine by getting it repaired.
Unfortunately, more often than not, repairs to a big-ticket appliance like a dishwasher can end up costing you more than simply upgrading to a newer model.
Your first point of contact should be your manufacturer, who should be able to give you advice on repair costs versus benefits. It may also be a good idea to consult different retailers for a second opinion. However, if it looks like you’ll end up spending more on maintenance and specialist parts than your dishwasher is worth, it may be time for a new one. The good news is that there are plenty of new, high-quality models that are cost-effective and energy and water efficient, meaning you might even be able to save more down the line.
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How to extend the lifespan of your dishwasher
There are a number of basic steps that you can take to maximise the life of your dishwasher, including:
- Use a powder detergent instead of gel: gels may contain chlorine bleach, which can cause erosion over time in your machine.
- Use the hot water setting: this will clean your dishes effectively, kill bacteria and prevent gunk build-up.
- Pre-rinse dishes: this will avoid clogging the sprayers and filters of your machine.
- Load your dishwasher correctly: increase efficiency by facing the dirtiest side of your dishes inwards and not overloading the appliance.
- Follow appliance instructions: read the machine’s manual for maintenance and usage directions.
- Clean your dishwasher well: you should clean your appliance at least once a month. Each time you clean remember to:
- Clear the drains of gunk – use a wet sponge to remove any fallen food scraps that may be in the filter.
- Wash the internal filter – thoroughly wash and use a plastic brush to lightly scrub off any gunk.
- Run a wash cycle with vinegar or baking soda – this should neutralise any leftover bacteria and sterilise your machine. You could also use a specialised dishwasher cleaning product.
Dishwasher brand warranties
Most popular dishwasher brands come with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. Remember to read the terms and conditions to ensure that you’re across any specifics.
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What type of dishwasher should I buy?
Dishwashers come in all shapes and sizes, which can make it hard to drill down on what you need for your home and family in terms of capacity and special features. Other important factors to keep front of mind are durability, reliability and value for money.
Luckily, Canstar Blue’s best-rated dishwasher awards can help you decide which is best for you.
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