These tips reveal how you can get more years out of your dishwasher and microwave.

Average Life Span: 7-12 years

Go for powder soap, not gel.
Powders easily dissolve in water, while gels create buildup that can eat away at the inside of your dishwasher. Extend life: 3 years

Skip the pre-rinse.
Leaving small food particles on your dishes rather than rinsing them first will give you a better wash. When enzymes in food interact with chemicals in the soap, it boosts the scrubbing effect. You're less likely to have to re-wash, which eases strain on your dishwasher. Extend life: 3 years

Microwave: Average Life Span: 5-10 years

Keep it clean.
Wipe down your microwave weekly to prevent spills from generating extra heat that can damage the unit. Extend life: 3 years.

Open the vents!
If your microwave is above your stove top flip on the ventilation fan whenever you use your burners. Extend life: 3 - 5 years.