The Lifespan of Appliances for Rental Properties: What to Expect and How to Plan Ahead

Posted by Jason White on

As a short-term rental property owner, it’s essential to understand the lifespan of the rental property appliances.

 

 Knowing how long these items typically last can help you plan for repairs and replacements, ensuring your guests have a comfortable and safe stay. In this blog, we’ll provide an overview of the major appliances found in short-term rentals, their typical lifespan, factors that can affect their lifespan, and signs that you may need to begin buying appliances for your rental property. 

 

HVAC System

The HVAC system is responsible for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning in your rental property. HVAC systems can last anywhere from 10 to 25 years, depending on factors such as proper maintenance, frequency of use, and the type of system. Signs that your HVAC system may need repair or replacement include unusual sounds, strange smells, and inconsistent temperatures throughout the rental.

 

  • Lifespan: 10-25 years 
  • Factors that affect lifespan: maintenance, frequency of use, and type of system
  • Signs you may need to replace the HVAC for your rental property: strange smells and inconsistent temperatures 

 

Water Heater

The water heater provides hot water to your guests for their daily needs, such as showering and washing dishes. The typical lifespan of a water heater is 8 to 12 years, although proper maintenance can extend its life. Signs that your water heater may need repair or replacement include a lack of hot water, unusual sounds, and water leaks.

 

  • Lifespan: 8 – 12 years 
  • Factors that affect lifespan: maintenance 
  • Signs you may need to replace the water heater  for your rental property: leaks or lack of hot water 

 

Refrigerator 

The typical lifespan of a refrigerator is 10 to 18 years. Many things can impact the lifespan of your refrigerator, such as quality of the appliance, frequency of use, maintenance, and power surges. Signs that your refrigerator may need repair or replacement include unusual sounds, difficulty starting, and inconsistent temperature or water flow.

 

  • Lifespan: 10-18 years 
  • Factors that affect lifespan: quality of appliance, frequency of use, maintenance 
  • Signs you may need to replace the water heater  for your rental property: unusual sounds, difficulty starting, and inconsistent temperatures or water flows. 

 

Stove 

 

The typical lifespan of a stove can vary depending on the type of stove, the frequency of use, and how well it is maintained. However, on average, a gas or electric stove can last anywhere from 10-15 years with proper maintenance and care.

 

If your stove is not heating properly, doesn’t light well, you notice rust or corrosion or worn out parts – these may all be signs you may need to begin thinking about buying a new stove for your investment property.

 

  • Lifespan: 10 – 15 years 
  • Factors that affect lifespan: frequency of use and how well its maintained 
  • Signs you may need to replace the water heater  for your rental property: uneven heating, difficulty lighting, rust, broken or worn out parts. 

 

Dishwasher

 

The lifespan of a dishwasher can vary depending on the type, brand, and model of the appliance, as well as how well it is maintained. On average, a dishwasher can last anywhere from 7 to 12 years with proper care and maintenance. Signs that you may need to replace your dishwasher are leaks, strange noises, and poor cleaning performance. 

 

  • Lifespan: 7 to 12 years 
  • Factors that affect lifespan: care and maintenance 
  • Signs you may need to replace the water heater  for your rental property: leaks, noise, and poor cleaning performance 

 

Washer and Dryer

Providing a washer and dryer for your guests is a convenient amenity that can help increase bookings. The typical lifespan of a washer and dryer is 10 to 14 years, but proper maintenance can extend their life. Signs that your washer and dryer may need repair or replacement include unusual sounds, a lack of function, and leaks.

  • Lifespan: 10 to 14 years 
  • Factors that affect lifespan: property maintenance 
  • Signs you may need to replace the water heater  for your rental property: lack of function and leaks 

 

Other Systems and Appliances

Other systems and appliances found in short-term rentals, such as smoke detectors and air purifiers, can vary in lifespan. Smoke detectors should be replaced every ten years, while air purifiers can last up to five years. Proper maintenance and regular testing can help ensure these items are functioning correctly.

 

Understanding the lifespan of the various systems and appliances in your short-term rental property is crucial for maintaining the comfort and safety of your guests. 

Regular maintenance and replacement of these items can help prevent unexpected breakdowns and keep your rental property in top condition, renting consistently with no unexpected downtime.

 We recommend consulting with professionals for maintenance and repairs to ensure the longevity of your property’s systems and appliances. Read more about how to keep your investment property in tip top shape here!