Whether for cooking or cleaning, we rely on good appliances to help make our lives a little easier. Stoves, refrigerators, washers, and dryers, are all just some of the household appliances we use everyday. These are often large-ticket items that come with a hefty cost, and we try to avoid unnecessary upgrades and purchases by taking care of them when we can. So, it’s easy to become complacent with what you have and put up with the odd burner that doesn’t work quite right.
How do you know when it’s time to swap out your old stove or oven for a newer model? There are many clues that let you know it’s time to throw out the old and install the new, and we’re here to help you find them! Here are our top three signs it’s time to upgrade your appliances.
1. Things aren’t working right.
All right, this one is obvious, but it’s true! Because appliances can be expensive, we often put up with things not working properly. After so long, these minor inconveniences can become large hassles and annoying nuisances that take up a lot of extra time in the day. Here’s what to look for on some appliances:
Stoves:
A stove or range usually lasts around 15 years, so if you’re pushing that timeline or are well over it, it might be worth it to start looking for something new. When a stove starts to go, you can expect uneven heat distribution and faulty burners. Another sign is the control panel stops working, and this is the most expensive part to have replaced.
Refrigerators:
Current refrigerators are built much more efficiently than those of 20 or 30 years ago. These appliances last about 20 years, and can end up costing a lot of money to repair. If you notice a water leak, it may just be a simple hose that needs replacing, or it could be indicative of a larger issue. If your fridge is over 20 years old, it might be smarter to invest in a newer, more efficient refrigerator to cut down on energy costs and electric bills.
Washing Machines:
Washing machines last around 8-10 years, and in those years, they do a lot of work for your home. A tell-tale sign of a washer in need of an upgrade is excessive leaking. Some water here and there is no issue, but when it’s an excessive amount every time, you should start looking for a new washing machine. Also, listen for excessive noise. Older washers get easily unbalanced and cause a loud banging that is not only annoying, but causes even more damage to this appliance.
2. Your appliances don’t match.
There may have been a time in your life when you didn’t care about having mis-matched appliances. A white fridge, with a black stove, and a brushed-nickel sink seemed just fine at the time, but that aesthetic can become distracting. Or if you only replace appliances as they break, it’s easy to get this style. Because appliances last so long, many kitchens have this look. If you’re tired of your stove from the 90s and modern fridge butting heads, it’s time to upgrade. A kitchen should have a seamless, effortless look that is inviting and modern. Not every piece needs to be exactly the same, but once you pick a theme, stick with it and opt for streamlined appliances that match and make your kitchen look more expensive.
3. There’s no more joy in cooking or any house work.
Not everyone likes to cook or do chores like home organizing. When appliances are breaking and not working properly, these simple tasks can become a huge chore that ends up sucking the life out of your day. If you are someone who loves cooking, but have suddenly dreaded the thought of using your stove, you should upgrade! Ovens with uneven heat distribution, dishwashers that make loud noises, and dryers that need to be run multiple times to get the job done make doing small tasks draining.
Now, a lot of items are built to function, even with broken parts, so that’s why it’s easy to let this go unnoticed for so long. But if cooking your favorite meal fills you with dread, and you often find yourself cursing your appliances, upgrade them and restore that small joy in your life.
There are loads of appliances in your home that only live for so long. Everything from outdoor grills to dishwashers have an impact on your life. Not every appliance needs to be replaced right away, but it is smart to know your options and the tell-tale signs that an upgrade is imminent.
Replacing appliances doesn’t have to be a hassle or intimidating––you just have to do your research, and there are many resources you can utilize to find the perfect fit for your home.
