
For the most part, our homes are filled with appliances. Yet, for some reason, we don’t even think twice about them unless something is going wrong, or until they stop working completely. By that time, it could be too late. Here are the most popular appliances you may have around your home, and how to know when they may need fixing or replacing altogether.
Washing Machine
Fix your washing machine when:
- You hear loud vibrations or noises
- Your washing machine is slow to fill with water due to limescale build-up
- The doors are getting stuck or not locking
Life expectancy:
- 10-13 years
Dryer
Fix your washing machine when:
- Your clothes are taking longer to dry than usual
- You hear loud thumping and your clothes are coming out torn
Life expectancy:
- 10-15 years
Stove
Fix your washing machine when:
- Things are cooking more slowly or quicker than usual
- You find cracks in the ceramic top or glass over door
Life expectancy:
- Gas 15-25 years | Electric 13-20 years
Refrigerator
Fix your washing machine when:
- The lightbulb burns out
- Your door won’t close properly due to faulty seal
- Your ice maker has stopped working
Life expectancy:
- 10-15 years
Dishwasher
Fix your washing machine when:
- Your dishes are not fully dry when the cycle is finished
- It stops mid-cycle
- You find a water leak
Life expectancy:
- 10-12 years
Geyser
Fix your washing machine when:
- Your water is not getting as hot as you desire it to be
- You hear sizzling noises
- You find a water leak
Life expectancy:
- 8-12 years
If all else fails, there is always Gumtree! Head to Head to gumtree.co.za or your Gumtree app (click for Apple & Android) for quality, second-hand appliances.