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How long will my appliances last?
Another way to improve your home is to upgrade mechanical systems and
appliances. New equipment is much more energy efficient and costs less
to operate today than 10 years ago. Compare efficiency on certain appliances
by looking for the ENERGY STAR® label from the Environmental
Protection Agency.
If you install a new efficient appliance now, you’ll benefit twice:
- Lower operating costs and better functionality, such as quieter air
conditioning, cleaner dishes and more sophisticated washing-machine
cycles.
- Major selling points for the near-new equipment, should your house
go on the market in a few years.
Here are some guidelines on how long major appliances last:
| Air-conditioning compressor |
15+ |
$1,500—$2,500 |
| Electric water heater |
14 |
$450—$700 |
| Gas water heater |
11—13 |
$650—$1,200 |
| Refrigerator |
14—17 |
$350—$2,000 |
| Warm-air furnace, heat pump |
15 |
$1,500—$2,500 |
| Dishwasher |
10 |
$240—$700 |
| Electric range |
17 |
$300—$1,350 |
| Gas range |
19 |
$280—$1,050 |
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