Are you guilty of keeping kitchen appliances for years and years? You’re not alone. It’s almost impossible for the average person to know when an appliance needs to be fixed and when it’s time to upgrade to something new. But after lots of kitchen activity over the holiday season, it might be painfully obvious that changes are indeed necessary.

Is it time for a new refrigerator?

The average lifespan of a refrigerator:

14 years

When to replace:

• If it was purchased in the 1990s

What to look for in a new refrigerator:

• One that fits your organizational style
• Flexible storage capacity
• High-tech features like Wi-Fi and touchscreen capabilities
• Energy Star certification

How to make it last:

• Avoid setting the temperature too low. This will increase cooling costs.
• Change the water filter every six months
• Periodically defrost the freezer

Regarding Kitchens in Lenexa, KS has appliances by such brands as Bosch, Gaggenau, KitchenAid, Whirlpool, Viking, Thermador and U-Line. Visit our website for additional information.

Click here to learn about replacing the microwave.

Tips adapted from Winter 2012 issue of The Nest

Image by Ryan McVay on GettyImages.com