What's the Life Expectancy of Small Appliances?

You use them every day. They’re some of the most indispensable items in your home. They’re your small appliances, and they won’t last forever. We can help you gauge the average life expectancy of several of the most common— and valued— small household appliances.

Factors that influence lifespan

A toaster or microwave’s lifespan may seem random, but there are a few key factors that can make or break how long they’ll stick around. Let’s take a look at the factors that keep your small appliances running smoothly (or send them to an early grave):

1. Frequency of Use: The more you use an appliance, the faster it wears out— simple as that! Your daily smoothie habit might be great for your health, but it’s also giving your blender a serious workout. Just like anything else, constant use leads to quicker wear and tear.
2. Correct Use: Believe it or not, following the instructions can make a big difference. Your toaster isn’t meant to grill cheese, and your microwave isn’t a drying rack for wet mittens. Using appliances for their intended purpose is a surefire way to keep them around longer.
3. Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular cleaning and maintenance can add years to your toaster’s lifespan. This means de-gunking your coffee maker, descaling your kettle, and making sure those filters stay fresh and clean.
4. Appliance Quality: Let’s face it, not all appliances are created equal. That bargain toaster oven might be tempting, but quality plays a big role in durability. Investing in a well-made appliance often means you’re investing in a longer-lasting one.
5. Storage Conditions: Where and how you store your appliances matters more than you might think. Keeping them in a dry, cool place can prevent rust, corrosion, and other damage. Plus, proper storage can prevent accidental drops or bumps that could shorten their lifespan.
6. Power Supply: Surges, spikes, and poor wiring can spell disaster for small appliances. Make sure you’re using them with a stable power source, or consider a surge protector to keep them safe from unexpected electrical issues.

The lifespan of your top 5 small appliances

How long do toasters last?

Whether you’re using it to warm up a quick breakfast pastry or perfect a slice of wheat toast, you count on your toaster to deliver the goods. While toasters can range in price and features, the average toaster lifespan ranges from from six to eight years. 

You can extend the life of your appliance by cleaning it regularly to remove excess breadcrumbs and additional food particles. Another way to keep your toaster in top shape is to avoid overloading it— only toast what fits comfortably to prevent strain on the heating elements.

Pro tip: Make sure the appliance is unplugged from any electricity and cooled after use before attempting any cleaning.

How long do toaster ovens last?

A good toaster oven can be an unheralded hero of a kitchen. Taking up to 1/2 to 1/3 the energy of conventional, electrical ovens, a toaster oven is a great, energy-conscious way to cook up smaller meals. With a range of sizes and options, the average toaster oven lifespan is up to five years. Regular cleaning can help you avoid food build up and increase life expectancy. 

What’s the lifespan of a coffee maker?

Depending on your level of caffeine addiction, the coffee maker can be considered one of the most indispensable appliances in your home.  When a steaming hot cup of coffee is a requirement of your morning routine, you don’t want to fathom waiting in line at a drive-thru. Get the most out of your machine by selecting an appliance with minimal moving parts. A basic drip coffee machine can last seven years while a conventional French press can go ten+ years, no problem. 

How long do microwaves last?

When it comes to convenience, the microwave oven changed the game. Luckily, microwave life expectancy comes in at a pretty solid nine years, so you can enjoy lots of hastily-heated burritos and bags of popcorn. Whether you're deciding on a countertop model or considering other possible microwave locations for a built-in, microwaves can come with a variety of features and range anywhere from $100 for a generic model to $2,000 for that sleek built-in.

How long can I hold onto my vacuum?

A dustpan and a broom will only get you so far, then you have to call in the vacuum. The good news is that a common vacuum can last up to eight years on average. If you are reserved in your vacuum use and don’t punish it too much, you can stretch those eight years into ten or more. You can add additional time to the lifespan of your vacuum by cleaning your attachments regularly. Be sure to check the beater bar for any especially clingy carpet fibers or debris. These items can be cut loose with scissors. 

Appliance answers with American Home Shield®

The last thing you need is one of your larger appliances, big or small, breaking down. While it may seem like your washing machine or oven could last forever, even the best-maintained appliances have a natural lifespan that eventually comes to an end. 

Find peace of mind with an American Home Shield home warranty. When your major kitchen and laundry appliances are covered, you won’t need to mess around with DIY fixes to get a few more weeks of life from your must-have appliances when the inevitable happens. Instead, with American Home Shield home warranty plans - you can be worry-free.

AHS assumes no responsibility, and specifically disclaims all liability, for your use of any and all information contained herein.