Appliance | Average Life Span In Years | Cost of New, Low, Mid, & High-End | Common Problems & Repair Costs With Parts & Labor | How New Models Have Improved Over the Last 10 Years or More |
| 17 | $400
$600
$1,000 | Igniter/surface burner won't heat ($95); Erratic thermostat ($140); Gas valve won't open ($125) | Sealed gas burners to keep out spills; easier-to-clean surfaces on electric ranges; more self-cleaning models |
Refrigerator (top-mount or side-by-side) | 15 | $550-$700
$850-$1,200
$1,000-$1,500 | Replace door gaskets ($100); New defrost timer ($120); Malfunctioning icemaker/dispenser ($150); Compressor won't cool ($350) | CFC-free sealed systems; improved energy efficiency (uses about 50 percent less than 1980 models); designed to offer more storage and easier cleaning. |
| 13 | $350
$500
$600 | Water pump leaks, won't let water out ($100); Drive belt breaks ($95); Drive motor stops ($180); Transmission leaks, locks up ($315) | Larger capacity; better cleaning performance; quieter operation; preprogrammed cycle selections; reduced water usage. |
| 14 | $300
$400
$500 | Drive belt breaks ($75); Worn door switch ($85); Heating element fails ($160) | Larger opening; quieter operation; automatic dryness sensors to avoid over drying and to save energy. |
| 9 | $300
$400
$650 | Water valve won't open ($110); Motor/wash system fails ($150) | Quieter operation; reduced water usage; improved energy efficiency (33 percent less than 1972 model); more flexible interior design for easier loading; soil-sensing capabilities to customize wash cycle. |