A dishwasher is one of the most convenient appliances in any kitchen. It saves time, effort, and water while keeping your dishes sparkling clean. But like all household appliances, dishwashers don’t last forever.
If your dishwasher is acting up, you might be wondering: How long should a dishwasher last? And if it’s starting to break down, should you repair it or replace it?
In this guide, we’ll explore the average lifespan of a dishwasher, the signs that indicate it’s time for a repair or replacement, and tips on extending its life.
How Long Should a Dishwasher Last?
On average, a dishwasher lasts 7 to 12 years. However, its lifespan depends on several factors, including:
✔ Brand and Quality – High-end dishwashers from reputable brands tend to last longer.
✔ Frequency of Use – Running your dishwasher daily can wear it out faster compared to using it only a few times a week.
✔ Maintenance and Cleaning – Regular maintenance, such as cleaning filters and removing food debris, can extend its life.
✔ Water Hardness – Hard water can cause mineral buildup, affecting the dishwasher’s efficiency and lifespan.
With proper care, some dishwashers can last up to 15 years, while others may start failing after only 5 to 7 years if not well-maintained.
Signs Your Dishwasher Needs Repair
Not every issue means your dishwasher is beyond saving. Some problems can be fixed with a simple repair, allowing you to get more years out of your appliance.
1. Dishes Aren’t Getting Clean
If your dishes come out dirty, greasy, or covered in food particles, check for:
🔹 Clogged spray arms – Food or mineral buildup can block water from reaching dishes.
🔹 Dirty filter – A clogged filter reduces cleaning efficiency.
🔹 Low water temperature – Water should be at least 120°F (49°C) for effective cleaning.
✅ Solution: Try cleaning the spray arms and filter. If the problem persists, you may need a professional to inspect the water pump or heating element.
2. Water Leaks from the Dishwasher
Water pooling under your dishwasher is a serious issue. Possible causes include:
🔹 Loose or damaged door gasket – The rubber seal around the door may be worn out.
🔹 Clogged drain hose – A blockage can cause water to back up.
🔹 Cracked tub or faulty pump – If the tub or pump is damaged, a replacement might be necessary.
✅ Solution: Check the door seal and drain hose. If the leak continues, a repair may be needed.
3. Dishwasher Won’t Start
If your dishwasher isn’t turning on, check for:
🔹 Power issues – A tripped circuit breaker or loose plug could be the culprit.
🔹 Door latch problems – If the door isn’t fully closed, the dishwasher won’t start.
🔹 Faulty control panel – If buttons aren’t responding, the control board might need repair.
✅ Solution: Ensure the door is properly shut and the power source is working. If the control panel is unresponsive, consider a professional repair.
4. Dishwasher is Making Loud Noises
Unusual sounds like grinding, buzzing, or knocking could indicate:
🔹 Loose or broken spray arms – These may be hitting dishes or internal parts.
🔹 Worn-out motor – A noisy motor may need repair or replacement.
🔹 Clogged pump – Debris in the pump can cause strange noises.
✅ Solution: Clean the spray arms and pump. If the noise persists, a technician can assess the motor.
5. Dishwasher Drains Poorly
If water remains at the bottom after a cycle, the drain may be clogged. Causes include:
🔹 Blocked filter or drain hose – Food scraps and grease can clog the drainage system.
🔹 Faulty drain pump – If the pump isn’t working, water won’t drain properly.
✅ Solution: Clean the filter and drain hose. If draining issues continue, the pump may need repair.
When to Replace Your Dishwasher
While many issues can be repaired, sometimes replacing your dishwasher is the smarter choice. Here are the signs that it’s time for a new one:
1. Your Dishwasher is Over 10 Years Old
If your dishwasher is more than a decade old and frequently breaking down, it may be more cost-effective to replace it.
2. Repairs Cost More Than Half the Price of a New Dishwasher
If a repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new dishwasher, replacement is usually the better option.
3. The Dishwasher Has Major Issues
Some problems indicate that your dishwasher is beyond repair, such as:
❌ Cracked tub – The inner tub is difficult and expensive to fix.
❌ Frequent breakdowns – If you’re constantly calling for repairs, it may be time for a replacement.
❌ Inefficient cleaning – If even repairs don’t fix poor cleaning performance, upgrading to a newer model is a good idea.
4. You Want a More Energy-Efficient Model
Newer dishwashers use less water and electricity, saving you money on utility bills. If your current model is outdated and inefficient, upgrading to an Energy Star-certified dishwasher can be a great long-term investment.
Tips to Make Your Dishwasher Last Longer
Want to extend your dishwasher’s life? Follow these simple maintenance tips:
✔ Clean the filter regularly – Remove food particles and grease buildup to prevent clogs.
✔ Use vinegar and baking soda – Run a cleaning cycle with vinegar and baking soda once a month to remove odors and buildup.
✔ Scrape off food before loading – Large food scraps can clog the drain and damage the filter.
✔ Check spray arms for blockages – Clean them periodically to ensure proper water flow.
✔ Run hot water before starting a cycle – This helps the dishwasher clean more effectively.
✔ Use the right detergent – Choose high-quality dishwasher detergent to prevent residue buildup.
Final Thoughts: Repair or Replace?
If your dishwasher is relatively new and has a minor issue, a repair is worth considering. However, if your dishwasher is over 10 years old, has major problems, or needs costly repairs, it’s often better to replace it.
Investing in a new, energy-efficient dishwasher can save you money in the long run while providing better cleaning performance and reliability.
Your Trusted Partner
Appliance Fix & Care is a trusted partner in Tampa and Dallas for residential and commercial dishwasher repair. We offer competitive prices and comprehensive solutions for all brands, focusing on drainage problems, leaks, broken seals, and clogged filters. We prioritize customer satisfaction, provide individualized attention, and offer immediate repair response for emergencies. Book Your Repair Now