As you read this, your phone is almost dead. Like milk, bike helmets, and condoms, phones are sold with a built-in expiration date.

At the low end, we’re talking just a couple of years, but most are supported for three to four years. This isn’t because the hardware breaks (although that can happen), but because of how long the manufacturer offers support.

Learn how to find out your phone’s expiration date and tips on how to make it last as long as possible.

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The average is really mean

Here are the average lifespans of some of the most popular phone brands and manufacturers today:

◾ Apple iPhone: Four to eight years

◾ Samsung: Three to six years

◾ Google Pixels: Three to five years

◾ Huawei: Two to four years

These are average values, so your mileage may vary.

What’s your number?

The lifespan of your phone starts from the date of manufacture, not the date of purchase, so it’s important to know when it was manufactured. Here’s how to find out:

◾ Take a look around: The manufacturing date is often indicated on the packaging. If you threw it away, look for the date or serial number in the “About” section of your phone’s settings.

◾ Serial number: Many manufacturers encode the manufacturing date in these numbers. The website SNDeepInfo can help you decode your date.

◾ Choose secret codes: Special codes and menus can reveal manufacturer information. *#06# may display your phone’s serial number.

Yes, I know. That looks like way too much work.

Hallelujah, there is an easier way

Instead of following the steps above, go to endoflife.date. This handy site lists end-of-life (EOL) dates for devices, software programs, and more.

Some quick links to check your phone’s EOL:

◾ Apple iPhone

◾ Samsung

◾ Google Pixel

The following links do not apply to phones, but you may want to check the EOL of your other tech:

◾ Apple Watch

◾ Apple iPad

◾ Android operating system

◾ Amazon Kindle

◾ Microsoft Windows

This is an excellent website to check before You are buying used technology. If the product is close to the EOL date, don’t buy it.

This is a serious matter

Using technology after its EOL date is bad for a number of reasons.

◾ No important updates: Sure, you won’t get the latest features, but more importantly, you won’t get any new security updates either.

◾ Hackers love you: Cybercriminals can much more easily break into your outdated technology to exploit unfixed bugs and security issues. We’re talking unauthorized access to your phone, your bank accounts, health data, and even your voice from calls and voicemails.

◾ Poor battery life: As phones age, battery performance decreases as lithium-ion batteries lose capacity over time.

◾ Slow: Older phones have trouble running newer apps and operating systems.

So how do you make it last a lifetime?

Maybe you’ve been using your phone for a year and you think there’s no way this thing can last four years. With a little maintenance, it can.

Keep it updated: Updates not only keep your device running smoothly and free from bugs, but can also improve performance. On iPhone, go to Settings > Generally > Software update. On Android it is available under Settings > By phone > Check for updates.

Replace the battery: This is one of the most effective upgrades you can give your phone. Try replacing the battery every few years – but be sure to have a professional do it. Contact Apple, Samsung or Google directly for other options and you’ll pay less than $100.

Use a case: It’s too risky to store your phone “naked.” If you’re a smart guy, get an OtterBox. If you like the sleek look, Spigen makes slim, military-grade cases. Smartish has wallet cases, grippy options, and more.

Battery care: Phones can best tolerate temperatures between 0 and 35 degrees Celsius. Keep your phone out of the sun in hot weather and in your pocket in freezing weather. If it burns, turn it off or put it in a shady place for a while. Putting it in the freezer is not a good idea.

Delete the garbage: Phones work faster with lots of free space, so delete any apps and files you don’t use. A quick cleanup: Open the Files app on Android, then tap Clean tab. On iPhone, go to Settings > Generally > iPhone storage to see which apps can be booted.

Get the latest in technology on The Kim Komando Show, the country’s biggest weekend talk show. Kim takes calls and offers advice on today’s digital lifestyle, from smartphones and tablets to online privacy and data hacks. Find her daily tips, free newsletters and more on her website.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to find your phone’s expiration date and extend its life