How Long Does a Washing Machine Last?

Short answerA washing machine lasts about 10 to 13 years on average. NAHB's 2007 study lists 10 years, and the Department of Energy estimates 13.4 years for residential clothes washers. The Department's Energy Saver Guide also suggests considering a new ENERGY STAR washer once yours is more than 10 years old.

What this costs

Our national estimates, not quotes.
Option	Job	Low	High
Repair	Appliance Repair	$90	$460

Why two different numbers

The U.S. Department of Energy, in its appliance efficiency rulemaking, estimates an average washer lifetime of 13.4 years. NAHB's 2007 study lists 10 years, and says its appliance figures are based on first-owner use. People often replace appliances before they wear out, because styles and features change, so a shorter number doesn't mean the machine had failed.

A wide spread behind the average

The Department of Energy's figure is an average across many machines, so some wear out much sooner and others last longer. The Department also said it had no data showing that more efficient washers last a shorter or longer time than less efficient ones.

Older washers use more

The Energy Saver Guide says clothes washers have seen a 70% drop in energy use since 1990. ENERGY STAR says its certified washers use about 20% less energy and about 30% less water.

Washing Machine Not Draining? How to Fix It

Common questions

Do front-load washers last longer than top-load?

The sources opened for this page don't give separate figures, so we aren't giving a number.

Does a washer that won't drain need replacing?

Not by itself. See our guide on a washing machine that won't drain for what to check first.