How Long Do Dishwashers Last?

It’s hard to imagine life without your dishwasher, but even the most faithful machines will someday wash their final load. Over time, the constant exposure to water, food scraps, and harsh cleaners takes its toll, causing the dishwasher’s inner workings to corrode, clog, or wear out altogether. Still, not every problem is a death rattle, and repairs may be an option. 

So, how long do dishwashers last, and what can you do to maximize their lifespan? Here’s everything you need to know about what to expect, when to repair, and when to replace. 

How Long Do Dishwashers Last?

On average, most dishwashers will last between 10 and 12 years. With proper maintenance, this type of appliance may even last 15 years or more. Along with the overall quality and design, factors such as frequency of use and user maintenance will play a role in how long your dishwasher lasts.

When to Repair Your Dishwasher 

The price of a new dishwasher can really eat into your budget, but the good news is that repairs are often an option. These are some common dishwasher problems that can usually be fixed with a replacement part or two.

Leaks, Isn’t Draining Properly, Or Has a Foul Odor 

These obvious issues are often a telltale sign of a bad pump, which typically costs between $150 to $350 to replace (though it can be as high as $600).

Water Pools Inside the Dishwasher 

If you can spot puddles of water in the bottom of your dishwasher, don’t panic. You can often fix this problem by replacing the sprayer arm for around $75 to $100.

Dishes Are Still Dirty or Wet

If your dishes are coming out of the dishwasher dirty or still wet after a dry cycle, or the dishwasher isn’t heating up, it means the heating element is failing. You can typically fix this issue for about $150 to $250.

Water Seeps From the Dishwasher 

Nothing is worse than starting a load of dishes, and returning to find a puddle forming underneath your dishwasher. After ensuring that you used the correct type of detergent, you can move onto other potential culprits, which may be a worn gasket, which costs around $50 to $100 to replace.

Dishwasher Door Won’t Latch Shut 

Having trouble keeping your dishwasher door closed? You can resolve this frustrating problem by swapping out your dishwasher door latch. Replacement door latches usually cost between $150 to $250. 

How Do You Know When to Replace Your Dishwasher?

In some cases, the cost of repairing your dishwasher won’t add enough years to be worth it. Here are the main signs that it’s time to start shopping for a new model:

• The dishwasher is more than 10 years old.

• It’s not a high-efficiency machine.

• You hear a loud humming sound, a major indicator of a failing motor. This is a pricier fix that can cost upwards of $600, so you’ll need to do a cost-benefit analysis based on the dishwasher’s age and condition.

• You’ve encountered multiple repair needs within a short timeframe.

If you’re not sure whether the dishwasher is totally done, you should get in touch with a local appliance repair technician to get a professional opinion.

How to Increase Your Dishwasher’s Efficiency

Spotting leftover sauce from spaghetti night doesn’t necessarily mean your dishwasher is kaput. If your dishwasher isn’t performing as it should, you may be able to adjust some of your habits to get your dishes spic and span.

1. Don’t Rinse Your Dishes

First off, stop rinsing your dishes clean before you load them. This method might sound counterintuitive, but dishwashing detergent is formulated to cling to food remnants and break them down. If your dishes have no residue for the detergent to work on, then it may start breaking down the structure and finish of your dishware. Rather than running your plate under a hot sink until it comes out clean, scrape the large scraps into the trash—your dishwasher will take care of the rest.

2. Avoid Overloading

Along with that, be sure you’re loading the dishwasher properly. Overloading the machine makes it difficult for the suds to reach every surface, and you’ll likely deal with icky, crusty residue if you try to fit too much into one load. 

3. Load Glassware Properly

When loading glassware, always line items along the rows on the outer edge of your dishwasher’s top shelf. Placing glasses on pegs will cause them to rattle around, giving a subpar clean (and you're bound to break a few).

Tips for Getting the Most From Your Dishwasher’s Lifespan

We know that we can expect dishwashers to last around 10 years, but what about the ones that last upwards of 15 years? The key to extending your dishwasher’s lifespan comes down to maintenance rather than design alone. Fortunately, there are several factors that are within your control. Here’s how to care for your dishwasher and get the most from its lifespan:

• Throw away large food scraps: Scrape off bones and other hard items before loading in your dishes, as these can clog the drain hose or damage the pump or filter.

• Maintain your filter: Clean your filter manually every two to four weeks. It’s usually a plastic cylinder that you can lift out after removing the bottom rack, but consult your machine’s user manual for more information.

• Clean the door seal: Use a rag soaked in white vinegar to wipe down the seal around the dishwasher’s door as needed.

• Hire a professional for repairs: Only perform a DIY dishwasher installation if you’re sure you know what you’re doing. To guarantee proper installation and repairs, opt for a professional instead.

• Research before buying a dishwasher: Invest in a quality dishwasher to reduce the likelihood of expensive repairs or an untimely demise.