As technology continues to transform our homes, smart appliances have become increasingly popular. From Wi-Fi–enabled refrigerators to dishwashers that self-diagnose issues, homeowners and landlords alike are turning to high-tech solutions for convenience, efficiency, and modern living. But with these new features comes an important question: Do smart appliances break down more often than traditional appliances?
Understanding the reliability of each type is especially important for rental property owners evaluating the best home warranty for rental property and for homeowners considering the value of an extended home warranty. The more advanced an appliance is, the more complex and potentially costly its repairs become.
ServicePlus brings homeowners nationwide dependable coverage, fast repairs, and peace of mind for every major system and appliance. So, if you are looking for a home warranty, we recommend you visit our website today.
Smart Appliances: Modern Convenience, Higher Complexity
Smart appliances are designed to simplify life with advanced features such as:
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Touchscreen controls
- Voice commands
- Mobile diagnostics
- Energy monitoring
- Automatic maintenance alerts
They offer unbeatable convenience — but they also contain more components that can fail.
Common Failure Points in Smart Appliances
- Electronic Control Boards
Smart appliances rely heavily on digital circuit boards that are sensitive to power surges, moisture, and firmware errors.
Repairs can cost $200–$600 or more. - Wi-Fi and Connectivity Issues
Software bugs, router compatibility, and firmware updates often cause connectivity failures. - Touchscreen and Sensor Failures
Touch sensors are prone to wear, moisture damage, and calibration issues. - Overreliance on Software
Many smart appliances stop working correctly due to software glitches rather than mechanical failures.
Why Smart Appliances Break Down More Often
- More components = more risk
- Software updates cause unexpected malfunctions
- Sensitive electronic parts are more vulnerable
- Harder to diagnose without advanced tools
- Repair technicians require specialized training
This complexity often leads to higher repair costs and longer service times.
Traditional Appliances: Simple, Reliable, and Long-Lasting
Traditional appliances focus on mechanical operations rather than electronics. They have fewer components and rely more on physical parts that are easier to repair.
Common Failure Points in Traditional Appliances
- Motors and Belts
Wear and tear over time cause failures but are inexpensive to fix. - Heating Elements
Common in ovens, dryers, and dishwashers — repairs are straightforward. - Mechanical Timers and Switches
Less expensive than digital parts and easier to replace.
Why Traditional Appliances Break Down Less Often
- Simpler internal design
- Easier access to parts
- Less software dependency
- Lower risk of electronic failure
- Fewer connectivity features to malfunction
Traditional appliances generally last longer and are easier and cheaper to repair.
Which Type Breaks Down More Often?
Smart Appliances Have Higher Failure Rates
Industry reports and technician surveys consistently show that smart appliances break down more often than traditional appliances — especially within the first five years of use.
Reasons include:
- Complex electronics
- Software malfunctions
- Dependence on connectivity
- More internal components
- Limited technician experience with newer models
Smart appliances also tend to have higher repair costs because:
- Replacement parts are expensive
- Specialized technicians charge more
- Repairs take longer due to diagnostics
Cost Comparison: Smart vs. Traditional Repairs
Smart Appliance Repair Costs
- Refrigerator control board: $250–$800
- Smart oven touchscreen: $200–$500
- Washer sensor module: $150–$350
- Dryer Wi-Fi board: $150–$400
Traditional Appliance Repair Costs
- Refrigerator thermostat: $100–$200
- Oven heating element: $100–$250
- Washer belt or motor: $80–$200
- Dryer fuse or thermostat: $50–$150
Smart appliances can cost up to 3–5x more to repair than traditional models.
Durability: Do Smart Appliances Last as Long?
Traditional appliances typically last longer because they have fewer electronic components. Smart appliances, however, may have shorter lifespans due to:
- Software obsolescence
- Firmware compatibility issues
- Proprietary parts becoming unavailable
- Increased electronic wear
Manufacturers update models quickly, making older smart appliance parts harder to find.
Why Smart Appliances Still Dominate Modern Homes
Despite their higher failure rates, smart appliances remain extremely popular because they offer:
- Convenience
- Energy efficiency
- Remote monitoring
- Usage tracking
- Self-diagnostics
- Modern design
Smart appliances are especially appealing for rental property owners who want energy efficiency and remote monitoring — but only when covered by a strong warranty plan.
How to Protect Both Smart and Traditional Appliances
Regardless of which appliances you choose, a home warranty or extended warranty significantly reduces repair costs and protects your budget.
Here’s how:
1. Get the Best Home Warranty for Rental Property
Rental properties experience heavier appliance use, leading to faster wear and more frequent repairs.
A strong warranty offers:
- Low-cost repair service fees
- Priority service during emergencies
- Protection against tenant-caused wear and tear
- Coverage for major systems and appliances
It ensures rental income stays consistent and reduces landlord stress.
2. Consider an Extended Home Warranty for Older or High-Tech Units
Smart appliances are expensive to repair.
Traditional appliances wear down over time.
An extended home warranty covers both by including:
- Control boards
- Sensors
- Motors
- Compressors
- Heating elements
- Mechanical parts
This coverage protects your investment long-term.
3. Look for Coverage That Includes Electronics and Digital Components
Some basic warranties exclude digital parts.
Choose a provider that includes:
- Circuit boards
- Touchscreens
- Wi-Fi modules
- Smart sensors
This ensures full protection for your smart home ecosystem.
Final Verdict: Which Appliance Type Is More Reliable?
Traditional appliances are more reliable, last longer, and cost less to repair.
Smart appliances break down more often due to complex electronics
However…
Smart appliances offer unbeatable convenience.
Traditional appliances offer simpler, more reliable performance.
The best strategy is to protect whichever you choose with:
- A strong home warranty
- Optional appliance coverage
- An extended home warranty for long-term stability
- The best home warranty for rental property if you own rentals
Final Thoughts
Smart appliances bring modern convenience, but they also bring increased repair risks. Traditional appliances offer durability but are slowly being replaced by smarter, more efficient designs. Regardless of the type, an extended home warranty can dramatically reduce costs and provide peace of mind.
ServicePlus delivers reliable, affordable home warranty protection for every homeowner. From appliances to major systems, we make repairs simple, fast, and stress-free.
