Washing and wetting, scrubbing and spinning – washing clothes is hard work! If you don’t believe me, just try to hand wash and hang dry your entire load of laundry this week. Although machines make the job much simpler and faster, they also bear the brunt of the chore. A washer can only complete so many laundry cycles before it reaches the end of its life cycle. So if you own a laundromat, consider the average life of a washing machine any time you need to buy new equipment or repair old equipment. How long can you reasonably expect your commercial washers to last?
Average Life of a Washing Machine
Washing machines are an expensive investment, but knowing the average life of a washing machine can help you prepare for the future, shop for new equipment, and decide between repairing and replacing a damaged washer.
Residential vs. Commercial
First, remember that residential and commercial washing machines vary in design and lifespan. Commercial washing machines must handle heavy loads, attend to frequent customers, and offer easy serviceability. They prove rugged and reliable, and although they cost more upfront, they provide a higher level of service and a longer life. When shopping for commercial washers, assess the design, the materials, and the overall stability, and be sure to ask about the products’ lifespan.
Brand & Model
Next, consider the brand and model of your washing machines. Not all washers are created equal, after all. If you invest in a product from a high-quality brand like Speed Queen (which was deemed one of the most reliable washer brands by Consumer Reports), you can expect longevity and exceptional performance levels. Although you may be tempted to purchase the cheapest washing machine you can find, don’t! When you consider lifespan, repair costs, loss of revenue during breakdowns, utility costs, and more, you can see that high-quality machines are worth the investment.
Maintenance & Usage
Finally, remember that your treatment of washing machines will influence their lifespan. Frequent usage can shorten a washer’s life, especially if the product is not equipped for heavy usage. In addition, maintaining your washer properly and calling in reputable professionals for repairs can extend the equipment’s life.
Average Lifespan
The average lifespan of a washing machine is about 7 to 13 years. Typically, you can expect a new washer to last about 11 years. Older washing machines may not last as long, however, due to subpar design. If your washing machine breaks down when it is 8 years or older, you might want to consider replacing it instead of repairing it (assuming it requires an expensive fix).
Finally, if you’re on the hunt for a reliable distributor, be sure to check out Laundry Solutions Company, a full-service provider of premium vended, on-premises, and multi-housing commercial laundry equipment. Our leasing program provides no mileage fees, no service fees, and no parts fees. You will be able to use high-quality Speed Queen equipment while enjoying a flexible lease and predictable payments. To learn more about our products and services, please give us a call at 800-383-9274 or contact us online. We look forward to hearing from you!