How long APPLIANCES should last

Dishwasher lifespan: 10-13 years

Old-time dishwashers had macerators to grind up food. Modern dishwashers have filtration systems that you need to maintain.

• Pro tip: While you don’t have to pre-wash your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, you should always scrape dishes before loading them. If you see food particles redeposited on your plates, it can mean that the filter is filled with gunk. Every couple of months, reach in, remove the filter, and clean it with a soft bristle brush. Be diligent about this — severely clogged filters can cause odor issues and draining problems.

Washing machine lifespan: 10-13 years

Top-loading washers are still popular, and they may last longer than their front-loader counterparts. Even though front-loaders are more efficient, their rubber door gaskets can get moldy if you don’t maintain them.

• Pro tip: Wipe a front-loader’s gasket after you’ve finished doing the laundry, and leave the washer door ajar between loads, so it can dry out. To reduce residue build-up in any washer, use low-sudsing HE (high-efficiency) detergent if your washer calls for it. Also, cut back on your use of liquid fabric softener.

Dryer lifespan: 10-13 years

Dryers are not complicated — they’re heated boxes that tumble clothes, and they tend to last a long time.

• Pro tip: To prevent dryer fires, clean the lint trap every single time you use your dryer. This will help your clothes dry more quickly, too. The vent hose matters — those foil accordion-style hoses accumulate lint when they sag. A rigid metal hose is safer. And look for highly recommended professional cleaners to clean your dryer vent once a year.

Oven range lifespan: 10-15 years

Gas ranges, which have fewer moving parts than electric ranges, typically last a few years longer.

• Pro tip: Use a pin or a pipe cleaner to clear gas burner ports from time to time. Clean the vent hood filter regularly, too, to prevent grease build up.

Refrigerator lifespan: 10 years

Since you rely on your refrigerator to keep food cold and safe to eat, it’s important for its temperature to stay in the right range: 37 degrees F for fresh food, and 0 degrees F for frozen food. A good refrigerator should be able to hit those numbers with no problem.

• Pro tip: When condenser coils get dusty, they can’t push out hot air, causing the fridge to run continuously to keep its cool. Locate the coils, and dust them with a vacuum cleaner attachment or long brush a couple of times a year.