At a Glance
Average Lifespan of Dishwashers
Signs Your Dishwasher May Be Dying
Best Dishwasher Brands Known for Their Longevity
Extending the Life of Your Dishwasher
Your dishwasher stands as the ultimate time-saver in your kitchen, offering the miraculous convenience of tossing a load of dirty dishes into the machine and then simply walking away as it efficiently cleans and dries them for you.
The only enhancement imaginable would be if dishwashers were designed to last a lifetime. But, alas, every modern miracle has its limits, and every appliance will one day need to be replaced. So, the big question for most people when shopping for a dishwasher is: How long do dishwashers last?
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Shop DishwashersAverage Lifespan of Dishwashers
While the industry standard for dishwasher lifespan is typically 10–12 years, the real answer to how long dishwashers last can vary. It truly depends.
Several factors influence dishwasher lifespan, some of which are beyond the consumer's control and some of which you control. A dishwasher's life expectancy will undoubtedly be longer in many high-end models, supporting the "you get what you pay for" motto. Still, it's essential to consider the factors that go into how long a dishwasher will last.
Factors Affecting Dishwasher Lifespan
The durability of a dishwasher depends on its build quality, usage, and care. Here are the crucial factors that impact its lifespan, providing tips to enhance its longevity.
Usage
This is factor number one. Mechanical parts eventually wear out or malfunction with more use. Two identical dishwashers can have different lifespans if one is used daily for several years and the other is run once or twice a week.
But it's important to note that dishwashers, like any machine, need to be run at least somewhat regularly to keep all the parts functioning well.
Maintenance
It may come as a surprise that your dishwasher needs to be cleaned regularly to perform correctly and live its entire lifespan. Following a proper maintenance program is essential because internal parts can build up grease and residue as you run cycles.
Water Quality
The water quality your dishwasher uses can affect its lifespan. Living in an area with a hard water dishwasher may have a shorter lifespan. The high mineral content of hard water can eventually lead to mineral buildup in the machine and clog its internal components.
There are remedies for this, though. You can use a water softener to remove these minerals from the water before it goes into the dishwasher. You can also use a cleaning solution designed to remove mineral buildup when cleaning your dishwasher.
Brand and Model
Like any appliance, some brands are known for their longevity; not every model will have the same lifespan. It's best to speak with an appliance expert and do some independent research when searching for the expected lifespan of any dishwasher.
Manufacturers sometimes advertise their machines' life expectancy, primarily if the brand is known for long lives. Reading customer reviews can also shed light on how long different brands and models last, as most customers post reviews within the first few months of owning a dishwasher and often compare their new machine to their previous one, even pointing out how long their old dishwasher lasted before breaking down for good.
→ Learn more: How do Dishwasher Cycles Work?
Signs Your Dishwasher May Be Dying
There are some indicators that your dishwasher might be at the end of its lifespan.
Humming
You hear a humming or any other strange noise during a cycle, which could signify that something is either stuck or broken. For example, a damaged motor can indicate this.
Leaking
This can be caused by worn-down drains or pipes in older models, but the end might be near if there is no sign of where a leak is coming from.
Poor Performance
If your dishes are no longer looking clean after a cycle or are still wet after a complete drying cycle, it could be a sign that your dishwasher is dying. Ensure you aren't overloading or improperly loading the dishwasher and using the correct soap first. If that's not the issue, it could be a mechanical issue.
To Repair or Replace a Dishwasher
There comes a time in the life of every appliance when something goes wrong, and you have to make the age-old decision: repair or replace? Sometimes, the decision on when to replace a dishwasher is obvious, like when the repair cost exceeds that of a brand-new replacement appliance. A choice to repair can be an easy one if your machine is still under a.
But it's not always that easy. If your dishwasher breaks down and the repair cost is even a quarter the price of a new dishwasher, you should consider its age first. If your dishwasher is over ten years old, there's a good chance it'll need more repairs shortly.
Older models also encounter issues with part availability, as manufacturers stop making parts for old machines that no longer use the most modern technology.
Because dishwasher repairs are generally costly, consider whether it's worth the investment in older models and even consider the average dishwasher lifespan when deciding to repair or replace.
Best Dishwasher Brands Known for Their Longevity
Here are four models from dishwasher brands known for the long lifespans of their dishwashers:
Café 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Café 24" Built In Dishwasher
This robust stainless steel Cafe dishwasher also offers excellent versatility. Four bottle wash jets on the upper rack direct water and detergent to hard-to-reach areas and ensure a deep clean for tall items like narrow glasses and jars.
Fold-down tines accommodate wide or oddly shaped items, and the third rack provides flexible space for your silverware and kitchen utensils.
A steam and sanitize option loosens tough soils before the wash cycle begins, eliminating the need for pre-rinsing or soaking.
Cafe dishwashers are known to routinely last for approximately 15 years.
★ Café Model CDT845P2NS1Customer Review ★
"I love this dishwasher! The adjustable middle rack is very helpful. The top rack stem clips keep my wine glasses sparkling and safe."
Bosch 300 Series 24" Stainless Steel Front Control Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Bosch 24" Front Control Built In Dishwasher
Bosch features several of their proprietary technologies on this front-control, built-in dishwasher. The PrecisionWash uses intelligent sensors to continually scan and check the progress of dishes throughout the cycle. Robust, precision spray arms attack every area of the dishwasher, making sure no dish is left behind.
The PureDry system is an energy-efficient, closed-door drying system that gently whisks moisture away from dishes as they cool. Plus, you can safely place plastic anywhere without exposed heating elements.
Bosch dishwashers can be expected to last for ten years or more.
★ Bosch Model SHE53C85N Customer Review ★
"As a plumber, this machine is a dream to install and well put together. As a consumer, it just can't be beat! My wife loves it, especially because of the third rack, the fact that you can hardly hear it run, and above all else, the controls on the front."
Monogram Statement 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Monogram Statement 24" Built-In Dishwasher
Monogram is GE's luxury line of appliances. This stainless steel model features over 90 powerful jets to leave your dishes and utensils particle-free and sparkling clean.
An expansive third rack can accommodate a flatware collection and several other cooking and serving utensils.
It even does some dishwasher maintenance for you, as the complex food disposer's stainless steel blades grind food into tiny particles that easily wash away.
You can expect your properly maintained Monogram dishwasher to have a lifespan of 10–15 years.
★ Monogram Model ZDT925SPNSS Customer Review ★
"It is the best dishwasher I've ever had! I love the arrangement and features! I also have a GE Monogram gas stove. I wish I had every appliance in that line!"
Cove 24" Panel Ready Built-In Dishwasher
Shop Cove 24" Panel Ready Built In Dishwasher
Designed to last for an impressive 20 years, Cove dishwashers are built with premium-grade materials and undergo rigorous stress tests during their development.
This panel-ready model easily adapts to differently shaped dishes and glasses with a height-adjustable middle rack and fold-down tines. Food filters efficiently through a fine mesh for cleaner water during every cycle.
Thanks to its innovative technology and Wi-Fi connectivity, you can even monitor cycle progress or start a new cycle remotely and receive alerts when the rinse aid is low.
→ Learn More: Black Dishwasher Styles to Upgrade Your Kitchen
Extending the Life of Your Dishwasher
The great news is that there are several easy ways to extend the life of your dishwasher, and most modern dishwashers come with instructions on how to do this.
Cleaning and Maintenance
It's recommended to clean your dishwasher once a month. Wipe the door seals and any visible food particles with a soft cloth and mild soap in warm water. Also, clean the food trap and filter.
You can also put one cup of distilled white vinegar in a bowl on the top rack of an empty dishwasher and run a complete cycle on the highest temperature setting.
Use the Right Detergent
Only use detergent meant explicitly for a dishwasher. Regular dish soap or other cleaners can cause premature wear and leaks in a dishwasher.
Inspect Regularly
Inspect your dishwasher every time you clean it. Look for any visible signs of damage or wear. Repair or replace any racks at the first sign of rust.
Conclusion
So, how long does a dishwasher last? As you can see, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. But with some research and a solid cleaning and maintenance plan, you can give your dishwasher a great chance to fulfill its most extended possible lifespan.
If you want a new dishwasher, shop online at Slager Appliances. Our friendly experts always help you find the dishwasher you want. Call us at 319-337-3833, email us, or use our online chat feature. Please stop by any of our Slager Appliances stores in Iowa City, IA. Visit us today!
→ Learn More: Inside Your Dishwasher: What Really Gets Your Dishes Clean in the Dishwasher
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about dishwashers.
What is the life expectancy of a dishwasher?
Answering how long dishwashers last isn't simple because dishwasher lifespans vary by model, brand, usage, and other factors. But the average life expectancy of a dishwasher is usually about 10–12 years.
Which dishwasher brand lasts the longest?
Miele currently holds the title for the longest-lasting dishwasher brand, as every model is expected to last at least 20 years.
Is it worth repairing a dishwasher?
The answer is often no for older dishwashers. However, several factors must be considered first, including the cost of repair vs. replacement and the expected lifespan of the specific model.
Why Trust Slager Appliances?
Founded over 70 years ago, Slager Appliances is a family-owned, independent appliance retailer based out of Iowa City, IA. Slager has competitive prices and industry knowledge in delivering and installing all major appliance brands. Large enough to offer competitive pricing yet small enough to continue offering the “white glove” service we pride ourselves on, our focus is always on the customer experience — from the first step into a showroom to the purchase transaction to well after your new appliance has been installed.
Whether you need to replace an old appliance, or if you’re remodeling and need an entire kitchen full of new brand-name products we are with you all the way. We will work with you to find a product that fits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
Shop Dishwashers at Slager Appliances
Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today, and shop dishwashers online at Slager Appliances. Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the perfect dishwasher for your kitchen — whether you call us at 319-337-3833, email us, or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by any of our Slager Appliances in Iowa City, IA. Visit us today!
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