Embarking on a full kitchen remodel, or just want to swap out your fridge, dishwasher, or range for a newer (better-looking, more eco-friendly, quieter) version? Here are a few things to know about making the switch:

1. Know your appliances’ birthdays.

Appliances, now matter how high-tech, have finite lifespans: Fridges have a life expectancy of about 13 years, and gas ranges about 15 years, according to a study from the National Association of Home Builders via This Old House. Dishwashers? They only last about 9 years, but a dishwasher that’s leaking or not cleaning your dishes means it’s ready to be replaced. Keep track of how old your appliances are; when they get old, it’s time to shop for a new one.

2. Not sure whether to repair or replace? Remember the 50/50 rule.

Here’s a good rule of thumb to follow when something goes wrong with your appliance: If it’s more than halfway through its lifespan and will cost half as much to repair as to replace, just replace it. You may save headaches (and more repairs) in the long run, and upgrading your appliance to a newer model may be greener and save you some money, too. (Just remember to recycle the old model: see point no. 10).

3. You should take a personality test.

Or rather, a kitchen personality test. Particularly if you’re doing a full kitchen remodel, you have the chance to consider how you really use your kitchen and choose appliances accordingly. Do you host every holiday for your large extended family and host dinner parties every weekend? You might want to consider getting two ovens. Do you cook in large batches every weekend and freeze family meals for the week ahead? You’ll want to be sure you get a fridge with a spacious freezer section. Mostly order takeout? Maybe you can get away with a dishwasher drawer instead of a full-sized dishwasher. Nowadays there are appliance options for every sort of cook; don’t just go with the status quo.