Summarised by Centrist
Everyone loves to complain that modern appliances don’t last like they used to—but does the data back it up?
A new study from the Norwegian University of Science and Technology suggests the truth is that it’s not just a case of “they don’t make them like they used to”—it’s a mix of economics, technology, and how we live today.
While washing machines and ovens have seen their lifespans plummet since the 1990s, fridges and freezers have held steady or slightly improved.
Researchers Kamila Krych and Johan Berg Pettersen found that washing machines dropped from an average lifespan of about 19 years in the early 1990s to just less than 11 years in the 2000s—a 45% decline.
Ovens saw a similar drop, from about 24 years to just more than 14 years. However, modern fridges, dishwashers, and dryers still last between 10 and 15 years, while freezers often run for 20.
The study points to several possible factors behind the decline. Manufacturers have lowered upfront prices, often at the cost of quality, with appliance prices in the US dropping 12% between 2013 and 2023.
Also, increased reliance on electronic components has also made repairs harder and costlier. Another overlooked factor is that we simply use appliances more, which means faster wear and tear, especially with machines now packed with sensors, smart features, and complex electronics.
“An average Norwegian family of four ran two washing cycles per week in 1960 but eight in 2000,” the study notes.
Editor’s note: New Zealand’s Right to Repair bill, led by Marama Davidson, seeks to mandate repair access and spare parts, aligning with EU and US efforts to reduce waste. Critics warn it could compromise trade secrets, lacks enforcement, excludes key industries, and fails to prevent planned obsolescence.
