There are a lot of things around the house that need replacing. That’s why it’s important to keep a list and make sure you are on top of it. Without doing this, your house will fall into disrepair and could end up costing you a lot further down the road. This guide will tell you how often you should replace certain household items.
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
When it comes to safety equipment, you should always read the label and see when they need replacing. However, with smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, it’s normally between seven and 10 years. Most smoke and carbon monoxide detectors will sound an alarm when they need replacing.
Fire extinguisher
Fire extinguishers need to be replaced immediately after they have been used. However, one hasn’t been used, and it should last for around six years. When it comes to safety equipment, you need to check the label because lifespan can differ between models. If you’re not 100% sure, it’s best to replace it – you don’t want to be caught out in a fire.
Water Filters
Water filters need to be replaced every six months if you want them to work properly. This is super important because it keeps the water in your home clean and safe to drink. However, bear in mind that some filters have an even shorter lifespan (as little as three months), so check before buying.
Refrigerator
There are many reasons that you might need to replace your refrigerator. The most common reason it’s no longer keeping your food properly refrigerated and causing it to spoil. Old refrigerators can also have problems with energy efficiency and overheating. As a general rule of thumb, you should replace your refrigerator every 15 years. However, if your appliance isn’t working properly before this date, you should get it checked out by a professional.
Dishwasher
Unfortunately, dishwashers don’t last forever. Like most white goods, they have a lifespan that you should keep in mind. If a machine is more than 10 years old, you should replace it. If it isn’t that old, but it regularly dies in the middle of a cycle, it’s time for a replacement too.
Washing Machine
Washing machines can last a very long time if they are properly maintained and not used heavily. However, most household washing machines are used weekly and never get serviced by a professional. As a result, the average washing machine will last around up to 12 years. However, when your washing machine is reaching a decade old, it’s time to consider a replacement.
Clothes Dryer
Dryers tend to last up to 14 years. However, you need to be careful and ensure that your dryer is properly maintained. Because of the heating elements inside a dryer, they can be a fire hazard if they malfunction. Never use a dryer when you are out of the house and get them serviced regularly.
Water Heater
Some people keep water tanks in their homes for 20+ years. However, this isn’t recommended because they can stop functioning properly, lose efficiency, and become dangerous. A water tank should last between six and 12 years on average.
Shower Head Filters
Showerhead filters are designed to keep chlorine and chloramines out of the water. These chemicals can damage your skin if you’re exposed to them regularly. Filters should between changed every six months.
Carpet
Carpet can last anywhere between five and 15 years. The lifespan depends on the type of carpet, its quality, and how much it is walked on. You can normally tell when a carpet needs replacing because it will start to become frayed at the edges and might even be covered in stains.
Windows
Windows can last 25 years (or more). However, it’s sometimes worth replacing the windows in your home, even if they aren’t that old. You should check for drafts, keep track of rising energy costs, and see how much condensation builds up. These are all signs that windows need replacing.
Air Conditioner
Air conditioners are only designed to last for around 10 years. Cooling devices take a lot of energy to run, which is why they don’t last as long as other appliances. If you have an older air conditioner, you should seriously consider replacing it. It could be costing you a lot more in energy bills than a new one would cost to buy.
Furnace
Furnaces are designed to last up to 20 years. However, towards the end of their operational life, you will notice a drop in energy efficiency. They can also be expensive to maintain, which means it’s time to invest in a new one.
Gutters
Gutters are one of the hardiest items on this list. However, if they were installed properly and are regularly cleaned out, they can last for 30 years. Common signs that your gutters need replacing are large cracks or holes, broken fasteners, and gutters pulling away from the roof.
Roof
Roofs are designed to last a long time. They can last between 20 and 50 years, depending on the type of roof and the environment it’s in. However, if you’re unsure whether your roof needs replacing, you should talk to a roofing contractor. They will be able to tell you the common signs of roof damage and provide you with a quote to get it replaced.
House siding
Vinyl siding on the house will typically last for around 20 to 40 years. Sometimes though, particularly in windy areas, it can need replacing before that. Common signs that your house siding needs replacing are damaged boards and panels, cracking or peeling, or interior wall damage.
Radiators
Radiators in the home can last up to 12 years. Some people keep them for even longer. But this can be a bad idea because older radiators will cost you a lot in heating bills. It’s best to get them replaced if they are older than 12 years. Replacing radiators is one of the most cost-effective ways to make your house more energy efficient. Plus, it can give your home a fresh new feel.
