Why It May Seem Like Appliance Quality Has Gone Down

Over the past decade, many homeowners have noticed what feels like a drop in the quality and durability of household appliances. From refrigerators that stop cooling within a few years to dishwashers that require frequent repairs, the perception that “they just don’t make them like they used to” has become widespread. But is this decline in quality real, or is it a combination of changes in design, technology, and consumer behavior? Let’s explore why modern appliances may not seem as dependable—and what you can do to extend their life.

1. Planned Obsolescence & Cost-Cutting Materials

One of the most common reasons people cite for declining appliance quality is planned obsolescence—the idea that products are designed with a shorter lifespan to encourage repeat purchases. While it’s not intentional or ideal, manufacturers do often choose cheaper materials and lighter components to reduce production costs and stay competitive. For example, plastic parts are now commonly used in areas that once relied on durable metal. While this helps keep prices lower, it can mean parts wear out or break more easily under normal use.

2. Increased Complexity = More Failure Points

Today’s appliances are more feature-rich and energy-efficient than ever before, but this also makes them more complex. Sensors, circuit boards, and digital displays add convenience—but they also introduce new areas where failure can occur. A washer with a touch-screen interface might be great for ease of use, but if that screen goes out, it can disable the entire machine.

In contrast, older machines were often more mechanical than digital, and their simplicity made them easier to repair and more forgiving over time. A broken timer switch was often a simple and inexpensive fix. Now, replacing a control board can cost hundreds of dollars.

3. Energy Efficiency vs. Durability

Appliances today are designed to use less water, electricity, and detergent. While this is great for the environment and your utility bills, it can sometimes result in performance trade-offs. For example, high-efficiency washers use less water, but improper use of detergent or poor maintenance can lead to residue buildup and more frequent breakdowns. Likewise, refrigerators that meet new energy standards may have smaller compressors or thinner insulation, leading to issues keeping temperature consistent.

4. How To Help Your Appliances Last Longer

While some design trends are out of your control, you CAN take steps to prevent premature failure:

• Read the user manual: Many breakdowns stem from improper use. Knowing how your appliance is supposed to function is the first step. This has changed in the last decade or so.

• Perform routine maintenance: Clean condenser coils, check for leaks, replace filters, and run cleaning cycles as recommended.

• Use the correct products: Only use HE detergent in high-efficiency washers. Avoid abrasive cleaners on sensitive components.

• Schedule professional servicing: Regular tune-ups can catch small issues before they become major breakdowns.

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5. A Professional Can Help

If your appliances are failing early, a certified technician can help identify whether the issue is due to wear, a design flaw, or user-related problems. At Kevin Smith Appliance Repairs, we not only repair but also educate our customers on how to extend the life of their appliances and avoid common pitfalls.

Summary

In conclusion, while it may seem like appliance quality has gone down, it’s often a mix of cost-saving design, added complexity, and changes in consumer habits. With proper care and education, you can still get many good years out of modern machines.