How Long Do Dishwashers Last?

All household appliances have a lifespan and the dishwasher is no exception. How long your dishwasher will last really depends on a number of factors from the brand you buy to how well it's maintained and sometimes pure luck! Your dishwasher may last longer or shorter than the expected lifespan for the particular model and it’s useful to know what the average lifespan of appliances like your dishwasher is, so that you can budget accordingly for repairs or potentially a replacement.

On average dishwashers can last anywhere between Dishwashers nine to sixteen years, with an average lifespan of around twelve years. It goes without saying that your dishwasher is far more likely to have a longer life if you regularly clean and treat it well.

Browse our range of dishwashers here.

Steps to Maintain your Dishwasher


1. Clean the Filter
Take the filter out of the dishwasher and give it a good clean to remove and reminisce of food and grime. Over time food can become trapped in the filter which impacts how well the dishwasher works and may leave your plates, bowls and utensils not as clean as you would have hoped.

2. Clean the Door and Seals
The seals on the dishwashers stop the machine from leaking while running. With frequent use, the rubber seals will get a build up of grime which you will want to remove to ensure maximum freshness and cleanliness when washing your dishes. 

3. Clean the Spray Arm
This is a simple mechanism where water is drawn into the arms and features in every dishwasher. Reach in and wipe down the spray arm with a damp cloth or even better, take the spray arm out and then use a toothpick to clear any blockages that may be hidden away (we recommend doing this every 6 months). Always refer to your owner’s manual for comprehensive  instructions on how to remove and clean your dishwasher spray arm.

4. Put it in Your Calendar
It may not be the most thrilling job in the world but cleaning your dishwasher monthly is a sure fire way to prevent a build of germs and ensure your machine continues to work to its optimum efficiency.

5. Keep it Running
Running your dishwasher regularly is the key to keeping the motor seals working properly. Try to avoid overloading your dishwasher. Overloading prevents dishes from getting fully cleaned and can put strain on your dishwasher, impacting it’s lifespan. Additionally, overloading the dishwasher can actually make it leak. Try and find that happy medium of full but not too full.

 Dishwasher Brands and Features 

One of the biggest factors in the lifespan of your dishwasher is the brand. It is true that some brands have been evidenced to have longer lifespans than others. This is due to a better combination of parts, more robust designs, and efficient operation. SOme dishwashers now boast amazing technological features that set them apart from the more basic options on the market, however, this is of course reflected in the price tag.

Repair or Replace 

Even well maintained dishwashers will have issues arise over the span of their life. This can mean having to pay for new parts to replace old tired ones or perhaps a repair person to come and take a look at what the issue might be.

If your dishwasher is nearing the ten year mark and you are starting to notice its performance diminishing, it may be worth considering investing in a new machine rather than opting for repair. A new appliance is likely to save you money on your bills in the long run.

How do you Know When your Dishwasher Needs to be Replaced?


There are a few telling signs that your dishwasher may be on it’s way out and these are some of the most obvious:

You have noticed rust on the interior of the dishwasher. This is likely related to a water leak. 
Water in a pool at the bottom of the dishwasher when the cycle is finished and when you have checked for blockages. This could mean that there is a blockage or issue with the drainage system of the dishwasher.
The dishes aren’t hot after a wash pointing to a faulty heating coil. This means the contents of the dishwasher has not been properly santised and could be detrimental to health. 
The dishwasher is starting to crack or parts coming loose from general wear and tear over time.

Choosing a Dishwasher


Choosing a dishwasher with a longer lifespan potentially means a larger price tag but it is certainly worth it in the long run. Village Domestics have a whole range of dishwashers to choose from at a great price. Speak to an expert to get advice on which dishwasher is best suited to your needs and lifestyle.