Appliance Lifespan Guide: When to Schedule Service in Fresno, CA

August 23, 2025

Extend the Life of Your Appliances with Proactive Maintenance

Appliances work hard every day—and like any machine, they wear down over time. Knowing how long appliances last and when to service them is essential for Fresno homeowners looking to save money, prevent costly breakdowns, and keep their homes running smoothly.

At Bauman’s Appliance & Air Conditioning, we’ve been helping Fresno-area families care for their appliances for over 30 years with fast, reliable, in-home service.

Why Appliance Lifespan Matters


Every appliance has a shelf life. Knowing the average lifespan of appliances can help Fresno homeowners plan repairs, maintenance, or replacements with less stress. It also helps prevent emergencies like spoiled food, water damage, or laundry mishaps.


At Bauman’s Appliance & Air Conditioning, we’ve been repairing and servicing appliances for over 30 years throughout Fresno County. Our mobile team offers reliable, in-home service with fast turnaround and exceptional care.

Properly timing service appointments can also help protect your home investment. Delaying needed repairs often leads to more serious problems that affect not just the appliance but potentially surrounding cabinets, floors, or walls. With regular maintenance, you can minimize risks and maximize the return on your appliance investment.


Average Lifespan of Appliances (2024 Guide)


Here are the estimated average lifespans of common household appliances:

Appliance Average Lifespan
Refrigerator 10–20 years
Dishwasher 8–12 years
Washer & Dryer 10–15 years
Oven/Range/Stove 13–20 years
Microwave 7–10 years
Garbage Disposal 8–12 years
Freezer 12–20 years
Wine Cooler 9–12 years
Trash Compactor 6–10 years
Ice Machine 5–8 years

Signs Your Appliance Needs Service


How do you know when to call a professional? Watch for these common signs your appliance needs service:

  • Unusual noises (buzzing, grinding, or rattling)

  • Inconsistent temperatures (refrigerators or ovens)

  • Leaks or pooling water

  • Longer wash or dry cycles

  • Unpleasant odors (burning, mildew, etc.)

  • Unresponsive controls or flickering displays

Ignoring these warning signs could shorten the lifespan of your appliance. Our experienced team at Bauman’s Appliance & Air Conditioning can assess issues quickly and perform expert repairs to get your appliance back in top shape.


When to Service Refrigerator & Other Appliances


Preventive maintenance is key to a long-lasting appliance. Here's a basic timeline:

Appliance Suggested Service Frequency
Refrigerator Yearly coil cleaning, seal check, replace water filter every 3–5 years
Dishwasher Clean spray arms & filters quarterly; check drainage yearly
Dryer Clean lint vent and inspect hoses annually
Microwave / Ice Machine Test electrical components yearly

By creating a yearly service schedule, you can prevent the most common appliance failures. A proactive approach keeps your kitchen and laundry appliances running efficiently and reduces long-term costs.


Should You Repair or Replace?


A common question Fresno homeowners ask is when to replace household appliances versus repairing them. Use the 50/50 rule:

If the repair cost is more than 50% of the replacement cost, and the appliance is over 50% through its lifespan, replacement is often better.

Our team at Bauman’s Appliance will always offer an honest assessment to help you decide what’s best for your budget.


Why Fresno Trusts Bauman’s for Appliance Repairs


Since 1981, our family-owned business has earned the trust of Central Valley homeowners through:


✅ 30+ years of experience

✅ Fully trained & insured technicians

✅ EPA lead-safe certified repairs

✅ Service for all major appliance brands

✅ Fast in-home repairs in Fresno, Clovis, Madera & nearby areas

Brands We Service: Whirlpool, Samsung, Maytag, KitchenAid, Magic Chef & more.

View Our Service Area »


We also offer helpful maintenance advice during visits, so you can take better care of your appliances between services. Whether it's offering tips for cleaning condenser coils or pointing out minor issues before they escalate, our technicians go the extra mile.


💬 Customer Feedback


“Just had a warranty call for our Thermador.  Got a call back within an hour of talking to Thermador, less than 24 hours later we had two technicians on site who gave us a 15 minutes heads up before they arrived, repaired our range in about an hour.” - Steve Shmaryahu Joo


See more on Google Reviews

FAQs: Appliance Lifespan & Service


How long do appliances usually last?

It varies by type, but most major appliances last 10–15 years with regular service.


Can I extend the life of my appliances?

Yes! Regular cleaning, timely maintenance, and prompt repairs can all extend your appliance's lifespan.


How often should I service appliances?

Annually is a good rule of thumb, though refrigerators and dryers may need more frequent checks.


Do you offer in-home appliance repairs in Fresno?

Yes, we provide mobile appliance service throughout Fresno County. Our team comes directly to your home.



What if my appliance is still under warranty?

We can help determine if your warranty is valid and guide you on whether the issue is covered. Let us know during your service call.


Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead with Smart Maintenance


Understanding how long appliances last helps you make informed decisions and avoid surprise expenses. Whether it’s knowing when to service your refrigerator or deciding when to replace household appliances, proactive care is the key.

At Bauman’s Appliance & Air Conditioning, we bring decades of experience and customer trust to every home we serve. We’re proud to be your go-to appliance repair provider in Fresno.


Avoid costly breakdowns and keep your home running smoothly. Book your service with Bauman’s Appliance & A/C:


📱 Call: (559) 348-9540

💬 Request a Free Quote

📍 Serving Fresno, Clovis, Madera, and the surrounding Central Valley