At a Glance:
How to Extend Your Dishwasher Lifespan
How long will a dishwasher last before needing to be replaced is a common question for homeowners. Dishwashers have become an essential appliance in most kitchens, handling the bulk of clean up from daily meals. However, at some point maintenance costs may start rising and performance declining. Determining the typical lifespan of a dishwasher and the factors that influence it can help consumers better plan for long-term use or replacement.
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This article will explore the average service life of dishwashers according to common usage statistics and owner reports. It will discuss how various dishwasher brands compare in terms of reliability and the longevity of their appliances.
Additionally, the piece will outline the variables that can either maximize or shorten a dishwasher's functional period such as water quality, usage habits, and preventative maintenance practices. Understanding a dishwasher's potential lifespan allows homeowners to select durable machine options and care for them properly to maximize the return on such a necessary kitchen investment.
How Long Do Dishwashers Last?
The average dishwasher lifespan is around 10-12 years with regular use and proper care and maintenance. Many estimates place the average lifetime right around the 10-year mark before requiring replacement or major repairs. This takes into account normal use with a variety of loads and average water conditions.
Variability in Lifespan
Of course, the lifespan of dishwashers will vary immensely depending on brand, size, features, water, and usage, so keep this in mind when asking "How long do dishwashers last?" This variability depends on several factors:
- Brand: Higher-end brands using better materials like stainless steel are built to last longer.
- Size and Features: Larger capacity or additional features may affect the engineering and components used.
- Water Quality: Hard water can cause mineral buildup over time hampering performance. Softer water areas allow for longer functioning.
- Usage Habits: Overloading, improper detergent amounts, and inconsistent cleaning all put more strain on a dishwasher's parts.
Maximizing Lifespan
With excellent care, some dishwashers can continue functioning well past 12 years. Proper loading, monthly maintenance cycles, and preventative maintenance can help maximize a machine's durable operation.
On the other hand, severe mineral buildup from tough water, consistent overloading, or exposure to significant temperature changes could potentially shorten a dishwasher's expected lifespan. Neglecting regular cleaning and repairs also leads to premature wear of components.
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Dishwasher Lifespan by Brand
Certain dishwasher manufacturers have earned a stellar reputation for building appliances that last significantly longer than average. Let's take a closer look at some top brands known for longevity.
Miele
Miele is consistently rated as one of the most reliable dishwasher brands on the market. Their dishwashers are engineered to exact German standards with a focus on durability, energy efficiency, and cleaning performance. Products undergo rigorous testing before release to ensure longevity.
Most Miele dishwashers utilize stainless steel interiors that resist corrosion and flexible racking for easy loading. Their brushless motors and electronic controls also outlive other brands. As a result, Miele dishwashers can run flawlessly for 12-18 years or more with little to no repairs needed. The quiet and efficient Miele 24" Panel Ready Built-in Dishwasher is popular.
➥ Featured: Miele 24" Panel Ready Built-in Dishwasher
This Miele dishwasher is renowned for its durability and long-lasting performance, ensuring years of reliable use in your kitchen. Equipped with EcoPower Technology, it offers efficient rinsing with minimal water consumption, promoting sustainability without compromising on cleanliness. Additionally, features like Water Protection Guarantee provide peace of mind against water damage, while QuickIntenseWash delivers exceptional cleaning results in less than an hour, catering to busy lifestyles without sacrificing effectiveness.
ASKO
ASKO's Scandinavian design emphasizes sustainability through durable construction. Their signature DirectDriveTM motor provides superior reliability that withstands years of continuous use without brushes or gears. Stainless steel interiors on ASKO dishwashers like the ASKO 40 Series 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher are designed for minimal maintenance. Combined with innovations like the drop-down 3rd rack and Hygienic Wash, ASKO dishwashers commonly run for 12-22 years.
➥ Featured: ASKO 40 Series 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
This ASKO dishwasher boasts heavy-duty stainless-steel construction, ensuring durability and long-lasting performance. With 11 programs to choose from, including specialized options for delicate items and intensive cleaning, this dishwasher offers versatility to meet various cleaning needs. Additionally, its Kid Safe™ lockable controls provide added peace of mind by preventing accidental adjustments or interruptions during the wash cycle, making it a reliable and family-friendly choice for any kitchen.
→ Learn more: Asko vs Miele Dishwashers: Which is Right for Your Home?
Monogram
As GE Appliances' flagship brand, Monogram promises quality matched by few others. Stainless components and water temperature controls in the Monogram Statement 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher eliminate chemical corrosion risks. Rigorous testing also ensures consistent heat and water pressure won't compromise parts integrity over a typical 10-18 year lifespan. QuadWash with customizable options cleans glasses to pots spotless year after year.
➥ Featured: Monogram Statement 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher
This Monogram dishwasher offers exceptional durability and longevity, ensuring years of reliable performance in your kitchen. With a whisper-quiet operation at 42 dBA and a convenient LED status indicator on the door, you can easily monitor the dishwasher's progress without any disruption to your home environment. Additionally, its third rack provides ample space and versatility, allowing you to effortlessly accommodate your entire flatware collection and various cooking and serving utensils for a thorough and efficient clean after every cycle.
→ Learn more: High End Dishwasher Review: GE Monogram Dishwashers
Thermador
Thermador dishwashers like the Thermador Emerald 24" Custom Panel Ready Built-In Dishwasher undergo a battery of tests undergoing five years of use equivalent. Stainless components inside and out paired with triple water filtration protect against mineral deposits that degrade other brands quicker. As a result, Thermador owners enjoy consistent performance for 15+ years with minimal service needed.
➥ Featured: Thermador® Emerald® 24" Custom Panel Ready Built In Dishwasher
Shop this Thermador® Dishwasher
This Thermador dishwasher is a durable and long-lasting appliance designed to seamlessly blend into your kitchen decor. Its custom panel ready feature allows it to match your kitchen's custom cabinetry, ensuring complete integration for a cohesive look. Like the last Monogram option, this dishwasher offers versatility with its Chef’s Tool Drawer third rack, providing extra space for tools and hard-to-place items. Furthermore, the Blue PowerBeam® feature indicates when the appliance is in use by shining a blue light on the floor, adding both practicality and style to your kitchen.
Fulgor Milano
Coming from Italy where design is intertwined with craftsmanship, Fulgor Milano dishwashers, like the Fulgor Milano 24" Stainless Steel Built-In Dishwasher, are built from the highest quality stainless steel alloys. Electronic controls and a brushless DC motor ensure smooth operation for 12-20 years even in hard water areas. Five-stage washing coupled with a built-in high loop also outperforms lesser models over the long haul.
➥ Featured: Fulgor Milano 24" Stainless Steel Built In Dishwasher
Shop this Fulgor Milano Dishwasher
This Fulgor Milano dishwasher is built to last, offering exceptional durability and reliability for years to come. Its advanced features, including the 3-way Euro Filtering System and 5-level wash, ensure thorough cleaning and sparkling results with every cycle. With 6 different programs to choose from, this dishwasher provides versatile options to accommodate various cleaning needs and preferences.
How to Extend Your Dishwasher Lifespan
Getting the most out of your dishwasher starts with choosing a high-quality brand renowned for longevity. However, there are additional steps homeowners can take to care for their machines and maximize their working life:
Use Proper Detergent
Utilize the correct detergent type designed for dishwashers in the appropriate amount based on the soil level of each load. Powder detergents can lead to mineral buildup that eventually clogs internal parts if the water is hard. Tablets, gel packets, and liquids create less scaling.
Only Run Full Loads
Run the dishwasher only when it is fully loaded to energy and water efficiency with each cycle. Partial loads require the dishwasher to use the same amount of water and heating elements, putting more strain on components over time as they cycle on and off more frequently.
Clean Filters Regularly
At minimum once per month, rinse away any trapped food debris from the dishwasher filters. Clogged drains or filtration ports increase mechanical pressure which can cause premature wear. Many brands even recommend filter cleaning before heavy-soil loads.
Run Cleaning Cycles
Running a cleaning cycle on your dishwasher helps remove food particles, grease, and soap residue, ensuring optimal performance and hygiene. This also helps remove mineral deposits that interfere with spray arms. Regular maintenance like this prolongs the lifespan of your dishwasher and prevents unpleasant odors and buildup.
Inspect Door Seals
Check seals and gaskets around the dishwasher door regularly, at least once every few months, for any cracks, splits, or worn areas that need replacement. Damaged seals allow steam and hot air to escape during the wash and rinse cycles instead of helping to properly sanitize dishes. Over time, this loss of heat and humidity inside the machine can reduce cleaning efficiency. Replacing seals when first noticed helps maintain an optimal internal climate for deep cleaning.
Keep Area Dry
After running a load, take a few minutes to wipe away any residual moisture around the outside of the dishwasher where water may have accumulated. Be sure to dry under the dishwasher as well if it is not installed under a countertop. Leaving wet areas unaddressed over the long term can eventually lead to surface rust damage, especially on metal components. A wipe-down after each use prevents this.
Consider Maintenance Plans
An extended protection plan from the appliance retailer or manufacturer is recommended for dishwashers 10+ years old. At this stage, internal parts like pumps and motors are more susceptible to failures. Sourcing replacements may be difficult as models age out of production. An affordable maintenance agreement ensures access to any needed repairs utilizing original or comparable parts. This avoids expensive out-of-pocket fixes and allows the dishwasher to continue functioning smoothly through the end of its natural lifespan.
Key Takeaways
In summary, with proper maintenance practices and choosing a high-quality brand known for longevity, today's dishwashers can easily function as daily workhorses in a busy kitchen for over a decade. The average lifespan is around 10-12 years, though many models from reliable manufacturers like Miele, Thermador, and ASKO routinely exceed 15 years of use requiring little to no repairs.
With good care such as monthly filter cleaning and using the appropriate detergent for water conditions, dishwashers can power through countless loads of dishes with lasting performance. As heavy-duty appliances are integral to modern meal prep and cleanup, investing in a durable machine upfront pays off over its long service life by minimizing replacement costs and protecting natural resources.
Following the best practices outlined here helps maximize any dishwasher's lifespan and return on investment for years of reliable, sparkling clean dishes.
FAQs
What is the average lifespan of a dishwasher?
Looking for the answer to, "How long do dishwashers last?" The typical dishwasher lifespan is approximately 10-15 years with regular use and proper maintenance and care. Many last a full 10-12 years on average before needing replacement. Higher-end brands often exceed 15 years and some models have been known to function reliably for 18+ years.
What is the best dishwasher brand?
Top-rated brands known for longevity include Miele, ASKO, Monogram by GE, Thermador, Fulgor Milano, and Bosch. These manufacturers are praised for their durable construction quality utilizing stainless steel interiors and brushless DC motors designed to withstand daily use for 15+ years with little to no repairs required.
Where can I buy a dishwasher near me?
Fuse Specialty Appliances is an appliance retailer with multiple showroom locations in South Florida including Naples, North Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Miami. We stock all major brands of dishwashers and can provide delivery, installation, and ongoing service for the lifetime of your purchase.
Why Trust Fuse Specialty Appliances?
Fuse Specialty Appliances carries an incredible selection of premium and high-end appliances for your home. With over 30 years of appliance knowledge, our team of experts represents the best and brightest in the industry. Our teams bring decades of experience working with designers, architects, cabinet makers, contractors, and everyone who is involved in designing and building a dream kitchen. We provide our customers with a unique, boutique-style experience where we get to know your goals for your kitchen. This more connected dynamic helps us ensure that we help you realize your kitchen dreams.
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Visit one of our 4 South Florida locations to see what a difference shopping locally with an experienced staff can make. Or shop dishwashers online! Our friendly experts are always happy to help you find the answer to the question, “How long do dishwashers last?” — whether you call us, use our online chat feature, or visit us in person.
→ Learn more: Appliance Stores Boca Raton, FL: Fuse Speciality Appliance