How Long Do Washing Machines Last?

Here at Glotech, people often ask us “how long should washing machines last?”. So, to answer this question and give you some peace of mind, we thought maybe we should investigate this and share our findings.

You hear a lot of people say that things aren’t made as well as they used to be ‘back in the day.’

Whilst that’s not far from the truth it is important to note that they also used to cost a lot more than they do these days.

To understand how long a washing machine should last, we need to understand the engineering and decision-making process that manufacturers go through.

How are washing machines manufactured?

Traditionally, manufacturers would create the best washing machines that they could and then work out how much to sell it for.

Now, in a world where people are more conscious about how much they spend, manufacturers are reverse-engineering products. They are working out how much to sell a washing machine for, and then try to work out what parts to use to meet that sale price target.

This change in approach has a fundamental consequence on the quality of washing machines that are coming out of factories. As the priority is to keep costs down, more often shortcuts are being taken.

This means that while in the past, better-quality parts were considered, now they are ignored as they would bring the total cost of the machine up.

What parts are being substituted for cheaper ones?

One perfect example of this is that budget washing machine brands have taken to using welded tub assemblies in their appliances.

Due to this, if your washing machine bearings experience a problem, an engineer can no longer strip down the tub to change the bearings. Instead your appliance will require a whole new tub assembly, which can sometimes cost more than the machine itself!

How long do modern washing machines last?

Because of this dramatic change in quality, modern budget washing machines can last for as little as a couple of years – and many give up just after their warranty period.

No manufacturers want their products to last forever, as then they would go out of business!

Everybody wants repeat customers, but we should still be able to expect to receive something which will last long enough to feel like we have got good value for our money.

Many in the industry also believe that manufacturers install parts designed to last a certain number of cycles. Let’s say, hypothetically, they’re designed to last 1,000 cycles. That, for an average family with children, would last a little over two years.

How do we choose a washing machine that will last longer?

As manufacturers do not state how long their machines are built to last for, or the total number of cycles they can run, it makes it extremely difficult for consumers to conduct thorough comparisons.

Miele is an exception to this and their washing machines are tested and built to last an average of 20 years. However, they are a luxury brand, which demands a higher premium for the increased quality of their product.

Doing a little research into the product that you are looking to buy can help you to gain an understanding of the quality of the machine. This can include reading customer reviews, to give you another person’s opinion of the device.

Demand for budget washing machines have been increasing year-on-year which means they most certainly have their place in the market. However, after taking into account what we’ve discussed in this article, it’s clear that sometimes it does pay to spend a little more.

If you’re experiencing difficulties with your machine, this does not necessarily mean that it is time to throw it out. Book a washing machine repair and our expert team can help to bring your device back to life.

Comments

Dr L A Rogers
Monday, March 11, 2019 at 12:54 pm

I have a Zanussi washing machine and dishwasher both about 12 years old and only used for a one-person household. They are both working OK but I would like to have them both serviced. Can you quote for that please? Address Holness road, Ash, Canterbury CT2 2JH

    MGlotech
    Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at 7:59 am

    I am not sure about why you are not hearing the sound but washing machines usually stop spinning for one of the following; carbon brushes, motor, motor control board.

Nicole T
Tuesday, August 13, 2019 at 10:25 pm

Hi,

My indesit washing machine just stopped spinning . Time is still counting but no spinning at all.

Just used it in the morning and now its stop spinning at time.

No overloaded ever for using it.. i turned it off, unplugged it but still does not work.

Normally when I turned on it will have a starting soung but not it does not have that sound.

Im not really sure for the problem
Please advise

Brenda Cadwallader
Friday, August 30, 2019 at 10:53 am

My Bosch washing machine purchased in 2012 works well but has recently stopped after the washing stage, spins and stops, will not continue to the next stage which was two rise and spins. When I move to the rinse/spin knob it does not rinse just spins the dirty water out for 9 minutes. Because of its age is it worth repairing or should I buy a new machine? I live in Hertfordshire, AL9, do you come out this far and what is an estimate of the call out cost please.

    MGlotech
    Friday, August 30, 2019 at 11:16 am

    Hi Brenda
    For that fault I would guess it is not pumping out quickly enough. In my opinion it is worth getting someone out although there is always the chance that it is something more serious. The machine is not that old but at that age I am not surprised that it would have something that needs fixing.
    Repairing is better for the environment!

    You can call the office on 01727 896789 to speak to one of our helpful staff who can discuss it further with you.

    Kind regards

Sandy
Tuesday, July 15, 2025 at 2:16 pm

Hi, my Hotpoint washing machine (3 years old) started making an almighty banging noise during spin cycle with 3 mins to go. I can see at the bottom there is now an internal dent.
Is it the belt that has broken or the bolts in the drum that have loosened?
How much is a call out charge please?
Thanks
Sandy

    Casey Hewer
    Wednesday, July 30, 2025 at 10:35 am

    Thanks for getting in touch. A loud banging noise followed by a dent inside the machine usually points to a more serious internal issue—such as a drum support failure, loose drum weights, or possibly a broken suspension. It’s unlikely to be the belt, as that typically causes the drum to stop turning altogether rather than causing impact damage.

    Our labour fee, which includes diagnosis, is £95.94 and includes all labour needed no matter how many visits and parts will be charged externally to this fee.

    We recommend booking an engineer with us so we can take a proper look and advise on repairs.

Vikki Horn
Friday, August 1, 2025 at 12:43 pm

My washing machine keeps coming up with a E301 error code. How much would this cost to repair please?

    Casey Hewer
    Thursday, August 21, 2025 at 3:15 pm

    Good afternoon,

    Thank you for your message. The E301 error code on a washing machine can relate to different issues depending on the brand and model, often linked to communication or control faults. The exact cost of repair can vary, as it depends on whether parts are required and the extent of the fault.

    We’d recommend booking an engineer visit so the fault can be diagnosed properly and the most cost-effective repair solution given. You can arrange a convenient appointment through our website or by calling our team.

    Best regards,
    Glotech Repairs.

Andy Wellrr
Monday, April 6, 2026 at 8:04 am

My washing machine has started leaking water

    Casey Hewer
    Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 4:14 pm

    Hi there,

    Sorry to hear you’re having this issue.

    A washing machine leaking water can be caused by a few common things, including:

    * A loose or damaged inlet hose (at the back of the machine or tap connection)
    * A split or blocked door seal (on front loaders)
    * A faulty dispenser drawer or overflow from detergent build-up
    * A leaking pump or internal hose connection

    If it’s a small leak, you can try:

    * Checking all external hoses are tight and not cracked
    * Cleaning the detergent drawer and ensuring it isn’t overflowing
    * Wiping around the door seal and checking for debris or tears

    If the leak continues or you can’t clearly identify the source, it’s likely an internal component fault and will need an engineer to inspect it safely.

    We would recommend arranging a visit so we can diagnose and repair it properly.

    Kind regards,
    Glotech repairs

Bobbi Marshall
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 at 11:20 am

Hi I have a Samsung eco bubble cold feed washing machine, all seems to be working however I think the heating element is not getting hot, please can you help, we are near Skegness

    Casey Hewer
    Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 4:14 pm

    Hi there,

    Thanks for getting in touch.

    If your Samsung EcoBubble washing machine is completing cycles but not heating the water, it does usually point towards a fault with the heating system. The most common causes are a failed heating element, thermostat, or temperature sensor. In some cases, it can also be related to the control board not sending power to the heater.

    Before arranging a visit, a couple of quick checks you can try:

    * Run a hot wash (e.g. 60°C) and see if the door glass warms up after 10–15 minutes
    * Check that no error codes are appearing during the cycle

    If the machine consistently stays cold, then the heating element or a related component will likely need testing and replacing.

    As this involves internal electrical parts, we would recommend booking an engineer to properly diagnose and repair the issue. We do cover the Skegness area, so we can arrange a visit at a convenient time for you.

    If you’d like to go ahead, just let us know and we’ll get that booked in.

    Kind regards,
    Glotech repairs

Pamela Petley
Sunday, April 12, 2026 at 1:13 pm

Washing machine makes a loud noise when spinning and is very wobbly as it’s spinning is it worth repairing its 8 years old

    Casey Hewer
    Wednesday, April 29, 2026 at 4:08 pm

    Hi there,

    A loud noise during spin along with excessive wobbling usually points to worn internal components such as the drum bearings, shock absorbers, or suspension springs. In some cases, it can also be due to the machine not being level, so it’s worth first checking that the feet are adjusted correctly and the appliance is stable on the floor.

    If it is a mechanical issue like bearings, this is typically a more involved repair as it requires significant strip-down of the machine. Given the appliance is around 8 years old, it can sometimes be more cost-effective to replace rather than repair, depending on the brand and overall condition.

    We’d still recommend having it properly assessed to confirm the exact fault and provide an accurate repair cost before making a decision.

    If you’d like, we can arrange an engineer visit to diagnose this for you.

    Kind regards,
    Glotech repairs

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