How Long Should Appliance Parts Last? A Lifecycle Breakdown
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A Lifecycle Breakdown You Can Count On
When a home appliance starts acting up, one of the first questions that comes to mind is:
“Should this part already be failing?”
Appliance parts aren’t built to last forever, but some are designed for long service lives — while others wear out naturally with regular use. At PRS Parts Inc., we help customers across Honolulu understand the typical lifespan of common parts so you can plan smart repairs and avoid unnecessary replacements.
Here’s a breakdown of how long key appliance parts are expected to last — and when it’s time to swap them out.
🔧 Refrigerator Parts
| Part | Typical Lifespan | Warning Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Compressor | 10–15 years | Fridge not cooling, loud clicking |
| Defrost Heater | 8–10 years | Frost buildup in freezer |
| Evaporator Fan | 5–8 years | Fridge warm but freezer cold |
| Door Gasket | 5–7 years | Door doesn’t seal properly, moisture buildup |
🧺 Washer Parts
| Part | Typical Lifespan | Warning Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Drain Pump | 5–7 years | Water not draining or loud noises |
| Drive Belt | 3–5 years | Drum doesn’t spin or moves slowly |
| Door Lock/Lid Switch | 4–6 years | Machine won’t start or unlock |
| Water Inlet Valve | 6–8 years | No water flow or slow filling |
🔄 Dryer Parts
| Part | Typical Lifespan | Warning Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Heating Element | 8–12 years | Dryer runs but doesn’t heat |
| Drum Rollers | 5–7 years | Thumping or grinding sounds |
| Thermal Fuse | 5–10 years | Dryer won’t start or overheats |
| Drive Belt | 5–7 years | Drum doesn’t turn |
🍽️ Dishwasher Parts
| Part | Typical Lifespan | Warning Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Wash Pump Motor | 6–10 years | Weak spray or water not circulating |
| Heating Element | 8–12 years | Dishes come out wet |
| Spray Arms | 5–8 years | Poor cleaning, clogged spray holes |
| Door Latch | 5–7 years | Door won’t close or cycle won’t start |
🔥 Oven & Range Parts
| Part | Typical Lifespan | Warning Signs |
|---|---|---|
| Bake/ Broil Element | 8–12 years | Oven doesn’t heat properly |
| Igniter | 5–7 years | Clicking sound with no flame |
| Temperature Sensor | 8–10 years | Oven overheats or underheats |
| Knobs & Switches | 4–6 years | Loose, unresponsive, or cracked |
💡 What Affects Part Lifespan?
Several factors can cause parts to fail earlier than expected:
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Heavy usage or overloading
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Poor maintenance (e.g., dirty filters, clogged vents)
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Hard water or electrical surges
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Off-brand or low-quality replacement parts
🛠️ Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
If one drum roller or washer suspension rod fails, the rest are likely close behind. Replacing them all at once can save labor costs and extend your repair’s effectiveness.
📍 Visit PRS Parts Inc. at 540 Lagoon Dr.
At PRS Parts Inc., we don’t just sell parts — we help you understand them. Our team can:
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Estimate part lifespan based on your appliance model
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Recommend quality replacements
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Help prevent premature part failure with expert tips
Stop by today for trusted advice, OEM parts, and local service you can rely on.