How Long Do Dishwashers Last? 

Are you worried about the age of your dishwasher? The average lifespan of most dishwashers is between eight and sixteen years, depending on how much you use it. However, you can extend that life expectancy by running it less often, cleaning the dishwasher filter, and using the right wash cycle settings. Whether you are worried about your current dishwasher or you are just planning ahead, here is everything you need to know about how long dishwashers last. Plus, we cover simple tips that will help it last even longer.

How Long Do Dishwashers Last on Average?

On average, dishwashers last ten years when used every other day. However, your dishwasher will last longer if you run it less frequently. If you run it just once a week, it could easily last twelve to sixteen years. On the other hand, it may only last five to seven years if you run it daily. Aside from how often you run your dishwasher, several other factors contribute to how long it will last.

Key Factors in the Lifespan of Your Dishwasher

Like all household appliances, how long your dishwasher lasts depends on how much you use it. However, there are two other things to consider.

• Water Temperature – Your dishwasher will last longer if you use the hot water setting instead of cool or cold. Since it’s warmer, the water is better at dissolving dirt that can clog the filters and wear them out.
• Dry Setting – While the heat-dry setting is convenient, it puts more stress on your dishwasher. Not only can the heating element fail, but the heat will eventually wear out the seals and even make the inner shell brittle. It will last much longer if you use the air-dry setting.

However, price is not always a guarantee your dishwasher will last longer. Most higher-end models offer more features, adjustable wash cycle times, and better cleaning power. But that doesn’t mean they will last longer than cheaper models.

How Do You Keep Your Dishwasher Running Longer?

Although the average life expectancy is about ten years, you can keep your dishwasher running longer with these tips.

1. Throw Away Scrapes & Rinse Dishes

The most effective way to extend the life of your dishwasher is to throw away food scraps and rinse your dishes before loading them. Food particles will clog your filter and bones and other scraps can damage the drain pump. While you don’t need to wash them completely, they should be mostly clean.

2. Clean the Food Trap Regularly

Every dishwasher has a food filter that keeps scraps from clogging the drain hose. Clean the filter every ten dishwasher cycles or after heavy loads to keep it working properly.

3. Use the Right Soap

Only use soap that is meant for a dishwasher. Using the wrong soap, like liquid dish soap or other cleaners, can wear out your dishwasher or even cause a leak or a flood. Also, do not overfill the soap dispenser in put extra soap in the bottom.

4. Load It Properly

Modern dishwashers are meant to hold a lot of dirty dishes. However, overloading it or blocking the wash arms can lead to damage. You may also need to wash dishes again to get them clean, which will wear the dishwasher out faster.

When To Replace a Dishwasher or Have It Serviced

Since the lifespan of dishwashers is closely related to the number of loads of dishes and basic maintenance and cleaning, it’s hard to know when to replace them. On average, plan to start saving for a new dishwasher after eight years. Perform regular maintenance and keep an eye out for warning signs that it might fail.

Telltale Signs You Need To Repair or Replace Your Dishwasher

It might be time to replace your dishwasher if you see several of these signs or consistently have the same issue:

• The dishes do not get clean
• It leaks, even after cleaning or replacing the door seals
• There is rust in the dishwasher tub or on the door latch
• It smells inside, even after a cleaning cycle
• There are cracks in the dishwasher tub
• It makes strange noises while running
• There is water in the bottom after running
• It shuts off mid-cycle

If you are worried about your dishwasher, we have qualified repair specialists available to help. Find your local Best Pick® appliance repair company now. You get the best research, the best recommendations, and the Best Pick Guarantee® – up to $2500 back if you are not completely satisfied!