How long should a dishwasher last? About 10 years, according to most of the 20-plus manufacturers we asked. CR members tell us they expect the same lifespan, on average, but that doesn’t necessarily mean 10 trouble-free years. Survey data from our members’ experiences with more than 69,000 dishwashers reveals that about 23 percent of those dishwashers either broke or stopped working as well as they should have within five years of ownership.
Most dishwashers fall into the 8-12 year range, though this can stretch to 15 years with proper care. The reality is that your mileage will vary significantly based on how you treat the appliance.
Key Factors That Determine Dishwasher Longevity
Usage Frequency and Load Size
If you use your dishwasher multiple times a day, be prepared for a shorter lifespan. Mechanical parts wear out the more they are used, so you don’t want to run partial loads either, for the same reason. Heavy usage families might see their units fail closer to the 7-8 year mark, while occasional users can push past 12 years easily.
The truth is, most people don’t realize how much their daily habits impact appliance life. Running half-empty loads is just as damaging as cramming everything in.
Brand Quality and Build Materials
Several factors including the brand, model, maintenance, and frequency of use impact how long dishwashers will last. While 10 years is about the average, some brands claim their products will last up to 13 or even 15 years with the right care. And one manufacturer in particular says its dishwashers are built to last for two decades.
Premium brands typically use better pumps, more durable racks, and superior door seals. These components make the difference between a 9-year unit and a 15-year workhorse.
Water Quality and Hardness
Hard water creates mineral buildup that clogs spray arms and damages internal components faster than soft water areas. If you live in a region with hard water, expect to see performance issues sooner unless you’re diligent about maintenance.
Essential Maintenance Tips to Extend Lifespan
Clean the Filter Regularly
Regular cleaning and dishwasher maintenance are crucial to keep your dishwasher running efficiently, maximizing its lifespan. The first step in cleaning your dishwasher is to check the filter, located at the bottom of most models. Depending on how much food debris gets washed down with dishes, this filter can become clogged within weeks.
I’ve seen too many people ignore this simple step until their dishes come out dirty or the unit starts smelling funky.
Inspect and Clean Spray Arms
Every few months, check the holes in the wash arms—spray nozzles—to make sure they’re clean and unobstructed. If you see food debris clogging a spray nozzle, gingerly try to remove it with a toothpick or pipe cleaner. You want to be gentle and make sure not to deform the hole, as it can affect the spray pattern and how well the dishwasher does its job.
Maintain the Door Seals
The edges and door seals on your dishwasher aren’t exposed to water and heat during a cycle, so don’t get cleaned when the appliance is in use. So, every month or so, use a cloth and a non-abrasive cleaning agent to wipe down the edges and door seals. This will prevent the build-up of grease and food particles that can lead to leaks.
Door seal failures are often the final nail in the coffin for older dishwashers.
Prevent Rack Corrosion
If the plastic coating wears off, repair it as soon as possible with vinyl paint or replacement tine tips. Otherwise, the racks could corrode and allow small shards of rusty metal to enter the pump. Imagine the pump is the heart of the dishwasher, and rust flakes are like plaque buildup, threatening the system with an inevitable clot and full-system shutdown.
Warning Signs Your Dishwasher Is Failing
Performance Issues
If your dishwasher is over 10 years old and shows signs like leaks, cold dishes, or poor cleaning performance, it might be time to consider replacement. Issues with the appliances tend to develop within the first five years, but after a decade, repairs become more frequent and expensive.
Unusual Noises and Vibrations
Grinding sounds, excessive vibration, or loud humming during cycles often indicate worn bearings or pump problems. These mechanical issues rarely get better with time.
Energy Efficiency Decline
Older dishwashers use significantly more water and energy than modern models. If your utility bills are climbing and your 12-year-old dishwasher is the culprit, replacement makes financial sense.
Common Mistakes That Shorten Dishwasher Life
Using Wrong Detergents
Use regular dish soap instead of dishwasher detergent, and you’ll create a sudsy mess that can damage seals and pumps. Dish soap creates excessive foam that interferes with proper operation.
Improper Loading
Cramming too much into one load will restrict the water spray patterns and prevent proper cleaning. You’ll have to rewash your dishes, running the machine unnecessarily, which whittles away at the machine’s lifespan.
Washing Non-Dish Items
Car parts are greasy, and the dishwasher and detergent aren’t made to handle this kind of grease. It can clog the filter and ruin the pump. The biggest problem repair technicians see is people washing candlestick holders—the wax embedded in the holders’ crevices destroys the dishwasher’s components.
When to Repair vs. Replace
Age and Repair Costs
You should replace a dishwasher every nine to 16 years, depending on its current state. If your dishwasher is old and the cost of repairs is high, it might be better to invest in a new, energy-efficient model.
Energy Efficiency Considerations
Modern dishwashers use 30-50% less water and energy than units from a decade ago. The savings on utility bills can offset the replacement cost over time.
Brand Reliability Differences
Commercial dishwashers are designed to last between 10 to 15 years, but residential units vary widely by manufacturer. Some brands consistently produce units that last 12-15 years, while others struggle to reach the 10-year mark reliably.
Consumer Reports data shows significant variation in reliability between brands, with some experiencing failure rates below 15% in the first five years, while others see over 30% failure rates.
Conclusion
Overall, with good care practices, and in average home settings, the appliance can serve a dishwasher life expectancy of 10-15 years. Several factors influence the life of a dishwasher before needing significant repairs or replacement. Even the highest rated dishwashers break down over time, but proper maintenance can significantly extend their useful life.
This article was initially generated with the assistance of AI to analyze thousands of articles and customer reviews. It was then carefully reviewed and edited by our team to ensure accuracy, clarity, and value. At KhDks, we are committed to providing the best commodity recommendations with the best value for money.