The Average Lifespan Of A Toaster Oven (And How It Compares To A Toaster)

A toaster oven can be one of the most useful and versatile appliances in the kitchen, at the ready to take on everything from tuna melts and roast vegetables to reheating leftover pizza. But before you give up any valuable counter space to a new appliance, it's worth knowing how long you can expect it to last.

A report from Energy Star puts the average lifespan for a toaster oven at five years. How long your own toaster oven stays functional will depend on quite a few factors, including the brand and model, how often it's in use, and how well you look after it. Even budget toaster ovens can last beyond this timeframe if well maintained.

Rather than considering just the age of the appliance, your best bet for knowing when the toaster oven needs to be replaced is its working condition. While some things like uneven browning can be worked around, you should never ignore a frayed electrical cord, which can be a serious fire hazard. Dents in the metal are alright if they are just surface level, but once they develop rust you're looking at structural damage that can affect the efficiency of the appliance, or a health hazard once the rust reaches the inside.

A standard toaster can't take on nearly the range of tasks as a toaster oven, but in terms of longevity, it's the clear winner. A toaster can be expected to last from five to 10 years, potentially double the length of a toaster oven. High end brands can last longer if they contain quality materials, but more complex electronics and features can sometimes shorten the lifespan of an appliance.

A toaster is a much simpler appliance than a toaster oven, which could go some way to explaining its longer lifespan. Combined with the fact that it's usually only used for a couple minutes at a time, even if you're using it daily, compared to the longer stretches of cooking you might do with a toaster oven.

For both toaster ovens and standard toasters, there are a few things you can do to help your personal appliance live beyond the industry average. Clearing out the crumbs or food residue is essential, not just for hygiene reasons, but because they can start fires that damage the interior workings. Wiping grease and dust from the outside can help prevent rust developing. 

Finally, be aware of how you place the appliances on the countertop. Not leaving enough space for ventilation can lead to overheating that will cause damage to both the appliance and your cupboards.