How Long Does a Dishwasher Last?

A Dishwasher Average Lifespan, Costs, and Easy Ways to Make Yours Last Longer

Average dishwasher lifespan, brand comparisons, repair vs replace, and practical maintenance to extend life expectancy.

Average life of a dishwasher and how to extend it.

Wondering how long a dishwasher should last? The short answer is that most dishwashers deliver an average lifespan of 7 to 12 years, with usage, maintenance, installation quality, and water conditions determining whether you land on the lower or higher end. Premium brands can go longer when cared for properly. Below is a data-driven look at dishwasher life expectancy, the signs you should replace a dishwasher, and the best steps to extend dishwasher lifespan, plus clear repair vs replace guidance.

How does a dishwasher work, and what actually wears out?

Every cycle pulls water, heats it, sprays it through rotating arms, drains, then dries. Over years of use, the parts most affected are:

• Pump and motor – circulation and drain performance decline with debris, scale and bearing wear.
• Heater and sensors – hard water scale and heat stress can cause faults that affect washing and drying.
• Spray arms, filters, and check valve – clogs reduce pressure and cleaning quality, and can shorten component life.
• Door components – gaskets, hinges, latches age and can start leaks or “won’t start” issues.
• Control board and UI – moisture, power surges, or age can lead to intermittent errors.

Dishwasher lifespan: averages and brand tendencies

Most households can expect 7–12 years. With light use, soft water, and good maintenance, many units run longer. Typical brand tendencies seen in service calls:

For a general benchmark on dishwasher life expectancy and replacement timing, third-party testing groups commonly reference the 10-year mark for average households. Energy-efficient models also tend to cost less to run over their life; see ENERGY STAR dishwashers for operating cost guidance.

How usage affects years of service

• Cycles per week: running 10–14 loads weekly ages parts faster than 3–5 loads.
• Water hardness: mineral scale on heaters, pumps, and spray arms shortens life without periodic descaling.
• Installation quality: a proper high loop or air gap prevents backflow that can damage pumps and bearings.
• Filter care: cleaning the filter monthly keeps debris out of pump and check valve, which protects the motor.

Repair vs replace: smart cost thresholds

Use this simple framework to decide.

• Under 5 years old: Repair is usually cost-effective unless there is severe tub damage or multiple major failures.
• 5–8 years: Repair if the total repair is < 50% of replacement cost and the unit has been reliable.
• 8–12 years: Replace if the repair is > 40–50% of a comparable new model, or if there are repeated failures.

Typical repair ranges we see locally:

• Drain or inlet issues (clog, hose, valve): $120–$250
• Pump, motor, or diverter: $220–$480
• Heating or control: $250–$600

Not draining or leaving water in the tub? Try the fast checks in our guide dishwasher won’t drain, then book a pro if water persists after basic steps.

How to make a dishwasher last longer

1. Clean the filter monthly to protect the pump and motor. Rinse and brush away grease and food particles.
2. Flush spray arms every 3–6 months. Clear nozzle holes with a toothpick and soak in warm vinegar to dissolve scale.
3. Run a hot vinegar cycle or dishwasher cleaner monthly to reduce hard-water deposits and odours.
4. Use the right detergent and correct dose. Too much detergent causes residue and premature wear.
5. Load for water flow: avoid blocking the detergent cup and spray arms. Face items toward jets, avoid nesting bowls.
6. Protect the drain path: ensure a high loop or air gap, and remove the garbage disposal knockout during installation.
7. Fix small leaks quickly: replace door gaskets at the first sign of drips to prevent board and motor damage.
8. Keep it level: a level cabinet reduces vibration and prevents door latch and rack wear.

Signs you should replace the dishwasher

• Cracked tub or persistent leaks after gasket replacement.
• Repeated control board failures or widespread wiring corrosion.
• Very poor cleaning even after filter, spray arm, and pump service.
• Costly parts unavailable or quoted repairs exceed half the price of a new, efficient model.

Need help now?

If your unit is noisy, not draining, leaking, or failing mid-cycle, our local team can diagnose the root cause and help you decide whether to repair or replace. Book dishwasher repair or contact ARS for fast service across Toronto and the GTA.