When to replace your washing machine? How to tell it is time for a new one

Your washing machine suddenly gets noisier, leaves a little puddle of water behind, or takes longer and longer to finish. That is when the question comes up: can this still be repaired, or is it time for a new one? In this blog we walk you through the key warning signs, help you choose between repairing and replacing, and show you how to get a working washing machine back in the house without any hassle.

How long does a washing machine last on average?

A washing machine lasts around eight to twelve years on average. Exactly how long depends on the brand, how often you wash and how well you maintain it. Run several loads a day or live in a hard-water area and the machine wears out faster. Look after it well, on the other hand, and it can last longer than average.

Is your washing machine ten years or older and something breaks? Then chances are that replacing it will be cheaper and more efficient in the long run than continuing to repair it.

Signs it is time to replace your washing machine

Sometimes it is obvious, sometimes it creeps up on you slowly. Look out for these signs that your washing machine is due for replacement:

• It breaks down more and more often, or keeps throwing an error code.

• Water is leaking, or you notice rust and wear on the drum or casing.

• The machine is far noisier or vibrates heavily, even with a normal load.

• Your laundry comes out less clean or far too wet.

• The energy label is outdated, so you use needlessly much power and water.

If you recognise several of these at once, that is often the moment to take a serious look at a new washing machine.

Repair or replace your washing machine?

The big question, of course, remains: repair or replace? A handy rule of thumb is to weigh the repair costs against the price of a new machine and the age of your appliance. If the repair costs a large chunk of a new washing machine and your current one is already old, replacing is usually the smarter choice.

Expensive repairs in particular, such as a new pump, tub or bearing, are often no longer worth it on an older machine. If it is a minor fault on an appliance that otherwise still works fine, then repairing makes perfect sense. The table below shows it at a glance.

Keep an eye on the energy label and your usage

Washing machines have become considerably more efficient in recent years. An old appliance with an outdated energy label often uses noticeably more electricity and water than a modern model. With a serious fault on an older machine, a new, energy-efficient one can partly pay for itself over time through a lower energy bill. The exact amounts vary from case to case, but it is certainly a factor worth weighing in your decision.

How to extend the lifespan of your washing machine

Want to put off the moment of replacement for as long as possible? A little maintenance keeps your washing machine in good shape for longer. Clean the lint filter and detergent drawer regularly, run a hot maintenance cycle now and then to prevent grease build-up and unpleasant smells, and do not overload the drum. That way you avoid unnecessary wear and breakdowns.

Never have to choose again: rent your washing machine at Homie

Here is the good part: with a washing machine on a subscription you never have to face the "repair or replace?" question again. At Homie you rent a washing machine for a fixed amount per month, and delivery, installation and repairs are all included. Something breaks? We fix it, or replace the appliance, with no surprise bill for you.

At Homie you can rent a washing machine from around EUR 9.99 per month. Explore our range and start your subscription today.