How Old Is Too Old for Appliances? When to Consider Getting a New Appliance

How Old Is Too Old for Appliances? When to Consider Getting a New Appliance

Written for PRS Appliances – Your Local Appliance Experts in Hawaii

Appliances are built to last—but not forever. If your refrigerator, washer, or stove has been running for more than a decade, you may be wondering whether it’s time to retire it and invest in something newer. At PRS Appliances, we know the signs to look out for and how to weigh the pros and cons of repair vs. replacement—especially in Hawaii, where salt air, humidity, and power surges can take a toll faster than on the mainland.

Here’s how to decide if your appliance is too old—and when it’s time to move on.

General Appliance Lifespans

While every appliance is different, here’s a quick reference for average life expectancy:

  • Refrigerator: 10–15 years

  • Washer: 8–12 years

  • Dryer: 10–13 years

  • Dishwasher: 7–10 years

  • Range/Oven: 12–20 years

  • Microwave: 7–10 years

  • Freezer: 10–15 years

If your appliance is older than these averages, it may be time to start thinking about a replacement—especially if you’re seeing performance issues.

Signs Your Appliance Is Too Old

  1. Frequent Breakdowns
    Constant repairs add up quickly. If you’ve already replaced major parts, like motors or compressors, your money might be better spent on a new unit.

  2. High Energy Bills
    Older appliances are less efficient. New ENERGY STAR®-rated models can lower your utility costs while reducing your carbon footprint.

  3. Outdated Features
    If your appliance lacks modern features like digital controls, multiple wash cycles, or smart functionality, upgrading could offer real daily benefits.

  4. Availability of Parts
    With older appliances, parts can become scarce or discontinued. PRS Parts Inc. can help track down hard-to-find components, but if the part is truly NLA (no longer available), replacement may be the only option.

  5. Noise, Odors, or Leaks
    Strange noises, water pooling, or burning smells are signs of wear that may not be worth fixing in an older machine.

Appliances Age Faster in Hawaii

Living in Hawaii means dealing with added environmental stress:

  • Salt Air: Corrodes metal components, especially in coastal areas.

  • Humidity: Can affect electronics and seals.

  • Power Surges: Shorten the lifespan of sensitive internal components.

Even newer appliances may need more maintenance, and older ones degrade faster. That’s why PRS Appliances only stocks appliances known to stand up to island life.

When to Replace Instead of Repair

Use the 50% Rule:
If your appliance is beyond half its expected lifespan and the cost to repair it is more than 50% of the cost of a new one, it’s time to upgrade.

Also consider:

  • Safety Concerns
    Worn wiring, faulty thermostats, or gas issues are not worth risking.

  • Performance Drops
    If your washer doesn’t clean or your fridge doesn’t cool like it used to—even after a repair—it may be too far gone.

Find Affordable Replacements at PRS Appliances

At PRS Appliances, we offer both new and scratch-and-dent appliances at unbeatable prices. Many models start as low as $199.99, and we carry trusted brands built for longevity.

Need Honest Advice?
Whether you’re trying to squeeze out another year from your dryer or need help choosing a modern refrigerator, PRS Appliances is here for you.

📍 Visit us at 540 Lagoon Dr., or call/text us for personalized recommendations.

PRS Appliances – Service with the Spirit of Aloha

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