How long do washing machines last?
Most washing machines last 10 to 13 years. The NAHB study lists about 10 years; manufacturers and appliance groups often cite 10 to 13.
Washers fail from leaks, drain pump clogs and worn bearings. A front-loader's door seal and a top-loader's hoses are the two spots worth looking at regularly.
Typical lifespan: 10 to 13 years
The NAHB study lists about 10 years; manufacturers and appliance groups often cite 10 to 13.
Washing machine maintenance checklist by season
Spring
Wipe the door seal on a front-loader and leave the door ajar between loads. Run a tub-clean cycle or the method in the manual. Clean the detergent drawer and the drain pump filter if there is one.
Summer
Inspect both fill hoses at the back for bulges, cracks or rust at the couplings, and look for drips. Many makers advise replacing rubber hoses every few years or using braided steel hoses.
Fall
Make sure the washer is level and does not walk during spin. A heavy unbalanced load is a common cause of wear on bearings and shocks.
Winter
If the washer is in a garage or unheated room, drain the hoses and the pump before a hard freeze. Turn the water supply valves off if you will be away.
Signs your washing machine needs replacing
- Loud grinding or a banging spin that does not stop when you rebalance the load.
- Water on the floor, or a leak you cannot trace to a hose.
- The drum does not drain or spin, with error codes that return.
- A musty smell that persists after a clean cycle.
- A repair quote that approaches half the price of a replacement.
Typical washing machine warranty
A limited one-year warranty on parts and labor is common. Many brands add longer coverage, often several years or more, on the motor or the drum or tub, and some offer extended electronic-control coverage. Terms differ by model.
An appliance warranty tracker keeps your washing machine's coverage dates and receipt in one place.
What to keep for a washing machine
- The receipt and delivery invoice
- Model and serial number, often on a label at the back or inside the door frame
- The manual with the error-code list
- A note of the hose replacement date
Common questions
How long do washing machines last?
Most washing machines last 10 to 13 years. The NAHB study lists about 10 years; manufacturers and appliance groups often cite 10 to 13.
How often should I replace washing machine hoses?
Many makers and insurers suggest checking them at least yearly and replacing rubber hoses about every five years, or switching to braided steel. Follow your manual.
Why does my front-loader smell?
Moisture trapped in the door seal and detergent drawer is the usual cause. Wipe the seal, leave the door open after loads and run a tub-clean cycle.
How do I maintain a washing machine?
Follow your manual first. Each season: spring, wipe the door seal on a front-loader and leave the door ajar between loads. Run a tub-clean cycle or the method in the manual. Clean the detergent drawer and the drain pump filter if there is one. Fall, make sure the washer is level and does not walk during spin. A heavy unbalanced load is a common cause of wear on bearings and shocks.