Nothing good lasts forever, and that includes the appliances and equipment that you may have already replaced during recent kitchen updates.

So while your kitchen will look gorgeous when everything is brand new and state-of-the-art, that shiny new look doesn’t last forever. Sooner or later, you’ll need to invest in replacements or repairs to keep everything up to par.

When contemplating kitchen updates, it is necessary to understand that if you think the functionality is still intact, there can be problems under the surface. Here’s what you need to know about maintaining the state of your kitchen.

 

When Do You Need a New Dishwasher? 

For many households, dishwashers are indispensable, providing a valuable way to reduce post-meal tasks and improve overall cleanliness. However, dishwashers get old, break, and need replacements during kitchen updates, just like any other appliance.

Modern dishwashers are designed to last around ten years, but if you start seeing these signs of wear and tear issues before that point, it may be time to invest in a repair or a new dishwasher:

• Rust on the exterior can indicate a water leak that isn’t necessarily visible
• Standing water in your dishwasher, indicating severe clogging.
• A door that doesn’t latch or lock properly.
• Cold dishes following a cycle.
• Cracks or damage to the door or frame.
• Leaking water on the floor under the unit.
• Stained or dirty dishes after a wash cycle.

In some cases, a repair or replacement of parts may solve these problems, but most of the time, complete replacement is the best option. For example, replacing a dishwasher will increase energy efficiency and improve the quality of your kitchen cleaning endeavors.

 

How Long Do Refrigerators Last?

It’s hard to imagine living in a modern home without a refrigerator, which is why prompt repairs or replacements are so necessary.

Unfortunately, when refrigerator parts are on the fritz, it can cause plenty of issues, including ruined food, wasted money, and the risk of bacteria development, which can cause food poisoning such as salmonella.

 

The average lifespan of a refrigerator is about ten years, but these signs can be indicative of a need for a timely replacement:

• Excessive condensation; in some cases, this can be remedied by a new door seal
• A motor that runs too hot
• Food that spoils faster than normal
• A freezer that is far too cold and leaves an ice buildup on items or causes freezer burn
• Excess energy use with no changes in habits
• A loud motor
• Uneven cooling, including freezing within the fridge space

It’s not uncommon for attachments such as ice machines or water filters to break after three to five years. If you live in a warm climate, it is crucial to keep up with these minor repairs.

However, if your refrigerator has broken parts and kitchen updates are a priority, a complete replacement may be the best option.

 

When Is a New Stove Essential?

Cooking is virtually impossible without a functional stove or oven, but this stable kitchen appliance doesn’t last forever. If you need a new range, these tips can guide your decision between replacing and repairing.

Like most kitchen appliances, a lifespan of 10 years or more isn’t uncommon. However, if you’re seeing signs of trouble and your stove is more than a decade old, replacement is most likely the right choice, especially if:

• The glass is cracked.
• One or more burners won’t light or won’t heat up properly.
• The oven heats unevenly, with particular areas heating faster than others.
• Preheating takes longer than usual.
• Burners are uneven.
• There is a strong smell of gas in gas units, indicating a potential leak.

Even if a repair is possible, it may not be worth the investment. If the repair cost is 50 percent or more of the unit, it’s time to take on something new.

If you haven’t, check out some luxury appliance options, they high performing and look beautiful in any kitchen.

 

Timelines for Countertops and Cabinet Installation

Despite common perception, counters and cabinets do not last forever. After excessive use, counters wear down. Eventually, cupboard doors don’t close properly, and shelves begin to buckle and bend. 

Every 10 to 15 years is generally the recommended time frame for a complete kitchen remodel. So whether the functionality of your kitchen isn’t meeting your needs, or you want an updated look, it may be worth considering a kitchen remodel.

 

Countertop Replacement

While the functionality of cabinets can actively disturb storage and the protection of your cooking utensils, countertops rarely interfere with function, no matter how old they are. 

However, the look and feel can decrease the value of your cooking space, and cracks can hold bacteria before any kitchen updates. Therefore, if your counter is cracked, stained beyond repair, has any signs of structural problems, or looks outdated, it’s time for a countertop replacement.

 

Cabinet Installation

Unless your cabinets are significantly newer than your countertops is recommended to replace both with cabinet installation taking priority. When cabinets are installed first, you can be sure new countertops will fit around or on your new cupboards and will not be damaged during the process.

 

Replacing Microwaves and Small Appliances

Unlike large appliances like refrigerators, stoves, ovens, and dishwashers, most small appliances won’t make it to a decade of life. As such, you may need to replace things like microwaves on a more accelerated basis.

 

Microwave

Your microwave should hold up for at least five years, but inexpensive models may only give you a year or two. After that, signs like smoke, sparks, burning smells, improperly cooked food, suspicious sounds, and trouble with controls often mean it’s time for a replacement.

Microwaves are repairable, but the cost is often not worth it. When in doubt, a new microwave is generally a better deal, with prices averaging around $100 or less–a steal compared to larger appliances.

 

Toasters

Toasters and toaster ovens can be necessary for convenience, and easy cooking, particularly for meals that do not require the time commitment preheating the oven needs.

However, like microwaves, these items aren’t meant to last longer than around five years of regular use, either. So if you see sparks or smoke, experience uneven cooking, or smell strong metallic scents, it’s time for kitchen updates and potentially a replacement.

 

Stand Mixers

Stand mixers can make baking fast and easy, but they are an investment. As such, most people are hesitant to drop cash on a replacement. Little things, like worn gears, may require simple repairs that you can do yourself, but more severe problems, like cracked stands, power troubles, or strange smells, usually entail a new unit.

Before jumping the gun, be sure to check the warranty. Some units may come with long-term protection that you can use to minimize or eliminate the cost or a replacement.

 

How Long Do Spices Last?

Spices are a staple in any kitchen, but contrary to the habits of standard home cooks, spices don’t last forever. Even though spices are generally dried and intended to be preserved, they come with an expiration date. Here are a few guidelines for how long spices last:

• Whole spices should be replaced every four years.
• Ground spices should be replaced every two to three years.
• Herbs should be replaced every one to two years.

Spices don’t spoil and are unlikely to make you sick, but they do lose flavor and effectiveness, compromising the food you cook.

Common cooking oils, like olive oil or canola oil, should be replaced every one to two years. In theory, white kosher and sea salt will last indefinitely, but table salt should be replaced every five years.

 

When to Throw Away Non-Stick Pans

Pots and pans, particularly non-stick, need to be a part of your regularly scheduled kitchen updates. However, because of the chemicals used to manufacture the non-stick surface, you should not use non-stick pots and pans for more than five years.

In addition, if there are any scratches or the surface begins to peel, it needs to be replaced promptly.

A great kitchen has a lot to offer your quality of life and diet, but maintaining functionality means proper replacements. From broken appliances to outdated countertops, it’s up to you to keep your kitchen in perfect working order.

 

It’s your turn to be a homeowner in New Jersey

If you are interested in acquiring your new home, do not hesitate to contact our EXP Realty consultants. We guarantee quality attention and the best homes in the area, with personalized marketing strategies to achieve the most significant benefit.

You will not regret working with us because we seek your best interests. Our clients certify them.