The average life expectancy of a stackable washer dryer is about 10 to 14 years, depending on the brand, model, usage, and maintenance. A stackable washer dryer is a convenient and space-saving appliance that combines a washing machine and a dryer in one unit. However, like any other appliance, it has a limited lifespan and may need to be replaced eventually. In this article, we will explore some of the factors that affect the life expectancy of a stackable washer dryer, and how to extend it as much as possible.
Factors that affect the life expectancy of a stackable washer dryer
There are several factors that can influence how long a stackable washer dryer lasts, such as:
Brand and model: Some brands and models are known to be more reliable and durable than others, based on customer reviews, ratings, and warranties. For example, according to Consumer Reports, LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool are among the top-rated brands for stackable washer dryers, while GE, Frigidaire, and Maytag are among the lowest-rated ones. Similarly, some models may have more features, functions, and technologies that enhance their performance and efficiency, while others may have more problems and defects that require frequent repairs and replacements.
Usage: How often and how much you use your stackable washer dryer can also affect its lifespan. Generally, the more you use it, the more wear and tear it will experience, and the sooner it will break down. However, this also depends on how you use it. For example, if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions, use the appropriate settings, load sizes, detergents, and fabric softeners, and avoid overloading or underloading your machine, you can reduce the stress and strain on your appliance and prolong its life. On the other hand, if you misuse, abuse, or neglect your machine, you can damage its components and shorten its life.
Maintenance: Another important factor that can extend or reduce the life expectancy of your stackable washer dryer is how well you maintain it. Regular maintenance can help you keep your appliance in good condition, prevent potential issues, and fix minor problems before they become major ones. For example, some of the maintenance tasks you should perform include cleaning the lint filter, drum, and door seal, checking the hoses and connections, leveling the machine, and running a self-clean cycle every few months. Additionally, you should also have your appliance serviced by a professional technician at least once a year, or whenever you notice any signs of malfunction or poor performance.
How to tell if your stackable washer dryer needs to be replaced
While some stackable washer dryers may last longer than others, there comes a point when they are beyond repair and need to be replaced. Some of the signs that indicate that your stackable washer dryer is nearing the end of its life include:
Age: As mentioned earlier, the average life expectancy of a stackable washer dryer is about 10 to 14 years. If your appliance is older than that, it may be time to consider a new one, especially if it has been giving you trouble or costing you more money in repairs and energy bills. A newer model may offer you more features, functions, and efficiency, as well as a longer warranty and better customer service.
Noise: If your stackable washer dryer is making loud, unusual, or excessive noises, such as banging, rattling, squeaking, or grinding, it may be a sign that something is wrong with its internal parts, such as the motor, belt, bearings, or drum. While some noises may be fixed with a simple adjustment or lubrication, others may indicate a serious problem that requires a replacement.
Leaks: If your stackable washer dryer is leaking water, detergent, or gas, it may be a sign that there is a crack, hole, or loose connection in its hoses, pipes, valves, or seals. Leaks can not only damage your appliance, but also your floors, walls, and furniture, as well as pose a safety and health hazard. Therefore, you should not ignore or delay fixing them, and if they are too severe or frequent, you may need to replace your appliance altogether.
Performance: If your stackable washer dryer is not performing as well as it used to, such as taking longer to wash or dry, leaving your clothes dirty, damp, or wrinkled, or not spinning, draining, or heating properly, it may be a sign that its components are worn out, damaged, or malfunctioning. While some performance issues may be resolved with a simple repair or adjustment, others may indicate a deeper problem that requires a replacement.
If you decide that your stackable washer dryer needs to be replaced, you may wonder how to choose a new one that suits your needs, preferences, and budget. Here are some of the factors you should consider when shopping for a new stackable washer dryer:
Size: One of the main advantages of a stackable washer dryer is that it saves space, which is ideal for small or crowded areas. However, you still need to measure the space where you plan to install your appliance, and make sure that it fits your dimensions, including the height, width, depth, and clearance. You should also consider the capacity of your appliance, which is measured in cubic feet, and how much laundry you typically do in a week. A larger capacity can handle more clothes in a single load, but it may also consume more energy and water, while a smaller capacity may require more frequent loads, but it may also be more efficient and economical.
Features: Another factor you should consider when choosing a new stackable washer dryer is the features and functions it offers. For example, some of the features you may look for include multiple wash and dry cycles, temperature and soil settings, steam and sanitize options, delay start and end-of-cycle signals, automatic load sensing and water level adjustment, moisture and wrinkle sensors, and smart technology and connectivity. Depending on your needs and preferences, you may opt for a more basic or a more advanced model, but you should also keep in mind the cost and complexity of each feature, and whether you will actually use it or not.
Energy efficiency: A final factor you should consider when choosing a new stackable washer dryer is how energy efficient it is. Energy efficiency refers to how much energy and water your appliance uses to perform its tasks, and how much it costs you in utility bills and environmental impact. Generally, the more energy efficient your appliance is, the more money and resources you will save in the long run, and the less greenhouse gas emissions you will produce. To determine the energy efficiency of your appliance, you can look for the Energy Star label, which indicates that it meets or exceeds the federal standards for energy consumption, or compare the energy guide labels, which show the estimated annual energy and water use and cost of each model.
A stackable washer dryer is a convenient and space-saving appliance that can last for about 10 to 14 years, depending on various factors, such as the brand, model, usage, and maintenance. However, if your appliance is old, noisy, leaky, or poorly performing, you may need to replace it with a new one that fits your space, features, and energy efficiency requirements. By doing so, you can enjoy a better laundry experience, and save money, time, and resources in the long run.
