Know the Life Expectancy of Your Home Systems and Appliances

Alan Stephens • July 16, 2025

Helping you plan and budget.

When it comes to homeownership, understanding the life expectancy of various home systems and appliances is crucial. Not only does this knowledge help in making informed decisions when purchasing a home, but it also aids in planning for replacements and repairs. At Acuity Home Inspections, we believe in empowering homeowners and potential homebuyers with this vital information.

 

1. Roofing Systems

The lifespan of your roof largely depends on the material used and local weather conditions. Asphalt shingles, commonly used in our region, can last 20 to 25 years with proper maintenance. On the other hand, metal roofs can serve you well for 40 to 70 years.

 

2. HVAC Systems

The heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system is the heart of a comfortable home. On average, furnaces have a life expectancy of 15 to 25 years, while central air conditioners can last 7 to 15 years. Regular service and maintenance can extend their lifespan and ensure efficient performance.

 

3. Water Heaters

A standard tank water heater can last anywhere from 6 to 12 years. Tankless or on-demand water heaters have a longer life expectancy, typically around 20 years.

 

4. Kitchen and Laundry Appliances

Refrigerators: With proper care, most refrigerators can last 10 to 15 years.

Dryers: Like washing machines, dryers can serve you for 8 to 12 years.

Ovens and Stoves: Gas ranges tend to last 15 to 20 years, while electric ones have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.

Garbage Disposal: Depending on usage, can last 10-12 years.

Washing Machines: These usually have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years.

 

5. Flooring

The durability of your flooring depends on the material. Hardwood floors can last a century with proper care, while carpeting typically needs replacement every 8 to 10 years.

 

6. Windows

High-quality windows can last up to 20 years or more. However, factors like weather conditions in Douglas and Sarpy Counties can influence their longevity. Additionally, the lower insulative value of older windows can mean higher utility costs and may justify replacement, even if they seem to be working fine.

 

7. Electrical Systems

Wiring: The lifespan of home wiring largely depends on when the house was built, and the type of wiring used. Homes built before the 1960s might have cloth-wrapped wiring, which can degrade over time and pose a fire risk. Such wiring should be inspected and possibly replaced. Modern homes typically use non-metallic (NM) cable or copper wiring, which can last 50 years or more with proper maintenance.

Circuit Breakers: These essential safety devices can last 30 to 40 years. However, having them inspected every few years is crucial to ensure they function correctly, especially if you notice frequent tripping or other electrical issues. Additionally, some off-brand or discontinued manufacturers of circuit breakers and panels have been found to be more prone to failure and potential hazards. We recommend a comprehensive inspection of anything older than 20 years to verify the status and condition of these components.

Outlets and Switches: Regularly used outlets and switches can wear out in about 10 to 15 years. It's advisable to replace any outlets that appear discolored, feel warm, or don't hold plugs securely.

Light Fixtures: While the fixture itself can last several decades, the wiring within might degrade, especially in high-humidity areas like bathrooms. It's a good practice to inspect light fixtures every 10 years.

 

Understanding the life expectancy of home systems and appliances is essential for effective homeownership. A Home Maintenance Inspection can help identify potential issues before they escalate, saving time and money in the long run. At Acuity Home Inspections, we're committed to providing homeowners and potential buyers in Omaha, Elkhorn, Gretna, and Millard with the knowledge they need to make informed decisions. Contact us today for your FREE Life Expectancy Chart, which provides detailed longevity information for every aspect of your home.

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7 Tips for Summer Maintenance

By Alan Stephens • August 12, 2025
Regular home maintenance can help ensure the longevity and value of your property. Summer is the perfect time to address specific maintenance tasks to protect your home from heat, rain, humidity, and other seasonal challenges. In this blog, I'll guide you through essential seasonal home maintenance tips, helping you keep your home in top shape and enjoy the season worry-free. Check and Clean Your Air Conditioning System: Your air conditioning system works tirelessly to keep your home cool during summer. To ensure its efficiency and prevent breakdowns, it's crucial to inspect and clean your AC system. Start with the interior HVAC system by changing or cleaning the air filters to improve air quality and airflow. For the exterior condenser unit, remove any debris or vegetation and ensure it has proper clearance for optimal performance. Check the condenser unit coils and hose out any accumulation of debris (cottonwood in NE is the worst offender!). Confirm that the unit is level to ensure optimal operational efficiency. Also, check the condition of the refrigerant lines – damaged or deteriorated insulation reduces the efficiency of operation. We always recommend having your HVAC system serviced by a qualified professional at least annually, at the beginning of the summer and/or winter seasons, to catch potential issues before they leave you hanging at the worst possible time! Examine and Clean the Gutters: In anticipation of spring and summer rain showers, keeping your gutters clear of debris is essential to allow for proper water drainage. The best time to evaluate your gutters and other roof components for functionality is during rainfall (avoid lightning!) Look for any clogs or blockages in the gutters and downspouts. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris to prevent water overflow and potential water damage to your home's foundation. Consider installing gutter guards to minimize future maintenance needs. While you’re looking at the roof, check and confirm that any “kick out” flashing is properly working to divert rainwater away from your home’s exterior. Inspect and Maintain Outdoor Spaces: With the arrival of summer, it’s time to enjoy all your outdoor spaces, so it's important to ensure they are safe and well-maintained. Check the condition of your deck or patio for any loose boards, posts, or railing balusters, cracks, or signs of rot. Clean and treat the wood if necessary. Inspect outdoor lighting fixtures, handrails, and stairs to ensure they are secure and functioning properly. Check any backyard play equipment for safety issues such as sharp edges, wood splinters, loose fasteners, and general structural soundness. Monitor and Control Moisture Levels: High interior humidity can create a favorable environment for mold and mildew growth. Monitor the moisture levels in your home, especially in basements and crawl spaces. Use dehumidifiers or ventilation systems to control excess moisture. Inspect and repair any leaks in plumbing, roofing, or windows to prevent water intrusion. Check and clean bathroom and kitchen exhaust fans. Check under-sink plumbing regularly to monitor for leaks and other moisture intrusion. Check and clean your dryer vent to ensure it’s able to properly exhaust moisture during operation. Maintain Your Lawn and Landscape: A well-maintained lawn enhances your home's curb appeal and creates an inviting outdoor space. It can also help improve the longevity of your home. Regularly mow the grass, trim bushes, and remove weeds to ensure rain can flow away from the house as intended. Keep any landscaping or other materials from direct contact with the home’s exterior. Adding mulch to garden beds can help retain moisture and control weed growth, but make sure you maintain at least 2” clearance between the ground/mulch and any wood siding to minimize the risk of moisture and insect-related damage. The grounds and landscaping should slope (target 6” slope within the 1 st 10 feet) away from the home’s exterior to ensure proper drainage and minimize water intrusion at the foundation. Inspect and Clean Windows and Screens: Windows and screens play a significant role in providing ventilation and natural light to your home. Summer is a good time to inspect windows for any cracks, gaps, or broken seals. Clean the windows, both inside and out, to improve visibility. Remove and clean window screens, repairing any tears or damage. Properly functioning screens help keep pests out while allowing fresh air to circulate. Test and Inspect Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Maintaining a safe living environment is of utmost importance. Test and inspect your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they function correctly. Replace batteries if needed and follow manufacturer guidelines for regular testing. These life-saving devices provide crucial early warnings for a fire or carbon monoxide leak. Spring home maintenance is essential for the well-being and preservation of your property. By following these tips, you can proactively address common issues and ensure a comfortable and safe home during the summer months. Regular maintenance not only helps you avoid costly repairs but also extends the life of your home's systems and components. Take the time to invest in your home now and enjoy a worry-free summer season. For a comprehensive home maintenance inspection, contact us today !

Commercial Property Inspections

By Alan Stephens • June 5, 2025
Raising the Bar with CCPIA