Household repairs have a fun way of sneaking up on you at the most inconvenient times. Going on a vacation tomorrow? Tonight’s a perfect time for your dishwasher to malfunction.

The longevity of your roof depends on what it’s made of, where you live, and how much regular maintenance it receives.

It might seem like you bought said appliance only yesterday, but some expensive things don’t last nearly as long as you think.

Common household appliances have a wide range of lifespans. A good stove can last eighteen years, an HVAC unit can give you 25 years, but good wood flooring can last over a century.

To help you figure out when you might be in for your next big repair bill, Reader’s Digest has compiled a handy household item life expectancy list.

Refrigerator—6 to 15 years. If you make sure to keep your ice maker and drain clean, that will help ensure its reliability.

Washing machine—8 to 12 years. However, if a repair crops up that costs more than $500, Angie’s List says it’s definitely worth replacing the unit.

Dishwasher—about 10 years. Make sure you regularly clean your washer and follow the directions that came with it, and you should have a solid decade of spotless plates.

Clothes dryer—about 10 years. Make sure to regularly clean your lint trap to keep it in tip top shape, while also helping prevent house fires.

Water heater—about 10 years. If you experience rusty water, leaks, or unsettling noises before then, it’s not a bad idea to replace it earlier.

Stove and oven—10 to 18 years. Your kitchen cooking appliances should last you between ten to eighteen years, depending on how often you use them, the model, and whether they’re gas or electric.

HVAC unit—15 to 25 years, as long as you perform regular upkeep.

Roof—20 to 50 years. Its longevity depends on a few factors: what it’s made of, where you live, and how much regular maintenance it receives. Tile, copper, and slate roofs will see you through 50 years or longer, while wood will last you 30 years and asphalt will give you around 20 years of strong life.

Flooring—50 to 100 years—or longer. Wood flooring, when properly cared for, can last 100 years or even longer. Vinyl will give you a solid 50 years, and carpet should be replaced every ten years or so. Tile will depend on the material, durability, cleaning schedule, and how often it’s walked on.

|May 8, 2022