How to Extend the Life of Household Appliances

Did you get a shiny new appliance for Christmas? Here’s how to make it last all year—and beyond!

Or maybe you recently repaired or replaced a home appliance due to the damage from Florida’s particularly nasty 2024 storm season.

Maybe you got some spending money for Christmas and are ready to start the New Year right by checking off some major items on your home improvement to-do list.

Whatever the reason for your new appliance and whatever the condition of your current appliances, this blog will help you extend their lifespan—saving you precious time, money, and peace of mind.

Keep reading!

The Connection Between Plumbing and Appliances

What does plumbing have to do with the health of your appliances? More than you might think.

Appliances like your washer, dishwasher, water heater, and fridge all use plumbing elements to operate efficiently.

Whether it’s making sure you have clean water coming out of the water dispenser in the fridge or your dishwasher properly drains at the end of each wash cycle, good plumbing can guarantee that your appliances perform optimally.

Some Harmful Effects of Bad Plumbing

While only certain appliances are connected to the plumbing in your home, the potential risks can extend beyond those appliances, such as a pipe that bursts and causes water damage to other parts of the house.

Other potential dangers include the following:

• Contamination: Water that isn’t treated and/or filtered can cause scale buildup, which can eventually lead to clogged pipes.
• Irregular Water Pressure: If water pressure is too high or too low, appliances may overwork or underperform.
• Leaks: If connections are not installed correctly, they can cause issues like water damage, rust, and corrosion.
• Poor Drainage: If drains are not properly cared for, they can cause water backups or damage the appliances.

Efficient plumbing prevents these issues from occurring. Not only is that good news for your appliances, but it’s also good news for your home (and wallet).

Your appliances may not be living things, but they do make life easier. Taking the necessary steps to make sure they’re functioning properly will put your mind at ease and help add years to their functionality.

How Long Should a Household Appliance Last?

Of course, no appliance will last forever. Each item, regardless of how expensive it was or how well you cared for it, will eventually need to be repaired or replaced.

Here’s a general overview of the average lifespans (how many years it will last when properly maintained) of common household appliances connected to your plumbing system:

• Refrigerator: 10-15
• Dishwasher: 9-10
• Disposal: 8-12
• Washer: 10-12
• Water Heater: 8-12

Of course, regular cleaning and prompt repairs can extend the life of most appliances. Avoiding overuse and following manufacturer guidelines also helps maintain performance over time.

Maintenance Tips for Increasing Your Appliances’ Longevity

Want some effective DIY tips to help extend the life of common household appliances? Barrs is happy to help! Here are three biggies:

1. Dishwasher: Clean out the filter monthly to avoid clogs and keep water flowing freely. Before starting the dishwasher, run the hot water in your sink for a few seconds. This ensures that the dishwasher starts with hot water, improving cleaning efficiency and reducing buildup.
2. Washing Machine: Avoid overloading, and make sure loads are balanced to prevent strain on the motor and drum. Clean the drum and gasket by running an empty cycle with a cup of white vinegar once a month to prevent mold and mildew, especially in front-loading machines.
3. Water Heater: Drain and flush the tank once a year to prevent sediment buildup, which can reduce efficiency and lifespan. Inspect the anode rod every few years to prevent rust; it should be replaced if it’s less than half an inch thick or coated in calcium. Don’t know what an anode rod is? Contact Barrs—we know.

How Often Should You Have Your Plumbing System Inspected?

Preventive maintenance is great, and any plumber worth their salt will always suggest it. But there are instances when “do it yourself” won’t cut it. That’s when it’s time to hire a reputable pro who is licensed, insured, and experienced.

Homeowners should ideally have their plumbing systems inspected every two years as part of regular preventative maintenance. However, certain situations may call for more frequent inspections, such as:

• Older Homes: Homes over 20 years old may have outdated plumbing systems (such as galvanized steel or cast iron pipes) and should be inspected annually.
• Tree-Covered Properties: If there are a lot of trees near the property, root growth could affect the underground pipes, making annual inspections a good idea.
• Frequent Plumbing Issues: If there are recurrent problems, such as slow drains or water discoloration, inspections should be scheduled more frequently to address any underlying issues.

Regular inspections can identify small issues, like leaks or corrosion, before they damage your appliances or become significant, costly repairs.

The Barrs Plumbing team offers a wide range of services to help you with all your plumbing needs. From replacing faucets and fixtures to regulating water pressure to installing new pipe systems, Barrs Plumbing can do it all. Reach out to our Barrs Plumbing team for a free estimate, and let the experts help you care for your home.