In Today’s Busy World, Your Time Is Invaluable
In Today’s Busy World, Your Time Is Invaluable
Major home appliances are essential time savers; they can rescue you from wasting time on mindless chores and grueling tasks such as handwashing dishes and scrubbing stains from dirty clothes. The minutes you spend filling ice cube trays, hanging clothes on the line to dry, and scouring silverware after dinner all add up to countless hours you can never recover. Alternatively, you could invest your time more wisely and enjoy your new space and create your dream home – if you let your appliances do the work for you!
While buying all-new appliances can be an expensive investment for a new home, many homeowners discover that the overall long-term appliance cost is more economical than purchasing resale. When investing in appliances for your new home, it’s important to look beyond the sticker price and consider long-term expenditures, including maintenance, repairs, and how soon a replacement will become necessary.
Resale Homes and Appliance Lifespans
Many homeowners consider the possibility of purchasing a resale house with previously installed components. While this option is typically more affordable upfront, buyers will need to take into account the average lifespan of certain appliances and compare that with the timeframe of your working model. For instance, if your resale home is 10 years old and your appliances were new at the time the home was constructed, what is the average lifespan of each unit? When should you expect to replace them, and at what cost? Below is some information to help you crunch numbers.
HVAC
Average Lifespan: 7–15 years (central air conditioning), 15–25 years (furnace)
Replacement Cost: ~$4,100 (central air system for a 2,000 sq. ft. home), ~$3,500+ (furnace)
If a resale home’s original HVAC system is 12 years old, it may require costly repairs or replacement soon.
Dishwasher
Average Lifespan: 7–12 years
Replacement Cost: $380–$2,300
Newer models reduce noise, water usage, and offer advanced washing/drying options, which can lower utility bills and save time.
Washing Machine & Clothes Dryer
Average Lifespan: Up to 15 years (washer), ~13 years (dryer)
Replacement Cost: $275–$2,500 (washer), $350–$2,000 (dryer)
Starting with a new matching set can reduce the risk of one machine failing before the other.
Refrigerator & Freezer
Average Lifespan: 9–13 years
Replacement Cost: $350–$4,000
Repairs often cost $200–$400 per job, making replacement more economical after multiple issues.
Stove & Range
Average Lifespan: 13 years (electric), 15 years (gas)
Replacement Cost: $400–$8,000
Switching between gas and electric requires additional labor costs for professional installation.
Water Heater
Average Lifespan: 12 years (tank), 20 years (tankless)
Replacement Cost: ~$900 (tank), ~$3,000 (tankless)
Tankless models are more durable but come with a higher upfront cost.
Plan for the Long Term
Home appliances require regular maintenance and care, similar to automobiles. Their value depreciates over time, especially if overworked or neglected. When purchasing a resale home, always verify the age and warranty status of existing appliances. While buying new appliances involves a higher initial cost, it reduces long-term repair risks and replacement expenses. New models often come with warranties, providing peace of mind for years. Less time worrying about appliances means more time enjoying your home!
