Cooker Lifespan: How Long Do Ovens and Hobs Really Last?

Ever wonder why your neighbour’s oven is still humming after 15 years while yours coughs out sparks? The answer isn’t magic – it’s how you use and look after it. Below we break down the usual life expectancies for common cookers and give you simple steps to stretch that clock.

Typical Life Expectancy for Different Cookers

Most electric or gas ovens on the market today aim for about 10‑12 years of solid service. If you keep the heat level moderate and clean the interior regularly, reaching 15 years isn’t rare. Hobs, whether ceramic, induction, or gas, usually last a bit longer – around 12‑15 years – because they have fewer moving parts.

Factors that knock years off that range include:

  • Frequent use at max temperature
  • Ignoring spills and burnt food
  • Power surges or faulty wiring
  • Heavy‑duty cooking with large pots that strain burners

When a cooker starts showing these signs, it’s time to act before a breakdown leaves you without a hot meal.

Practical Tips to Keep Your Cooker Going

Clean the oven after every use. Let it cool, wipe away splatters, and run a quick self‑clean cycle (if available) every few months. A clean surface transfers heat more evenly and reduces stress on heating elements.

Check and replace seals. The door gasket on an oven keeps heat inside. If you feel a draft when the door closes, the seal is worn and should be swapped out. A new seal can add a couple of years to the oven’s life.

Level your hob. An uneven surface makes burners work harder, especially gas models. Use a spirit level and adjust the feet as needed.

Protect against power spikes. Plug your cooker into a surge protector or have an electrician install a dedicated circuit. This prevents sudden voltage hits from frying internal components.

Schedule annual checks. A quick visit from a qualified technician can spot loose connections, worn heating elements, or cracked glass before they turn into costly repairs.

If you notice any of these warning signs – uneven heating, strange noises, or the appliance taking longer to reach temperature – it’s smarter to call a professional early. Repairing a faulty element usually costs far less than buying a brand‑new cooker.

In the end, the lifespan of your cooker comes down to two things: the quality of the original build and the care you give it day‑to‑day. By cleaning regularly, watching the heat settings, and checking for wear, you can easily squeeze a few extra years out of the unit.

So next time you preheat, think about these simple habits. A little effort now means fewer surprise breakdowns later and more reliable meals for you and your family.