How often should I replace my sewing machine needle?

[SylvesterTheCat]

It's just occurred to me that perhaps it needs replacing at some stage!
I've had my machine a couple of years (but it's second hand) and only use it a handful of times a year to make curtains.

I've only ever changed mine when it broke or when a finer needle was needed. There are different types of needle for different types of fabric i.e. stretchy fabric, denim

Oh I didn't know about the different needles. I have no idea what I've got on there at the moment.
When a needle breaks does it go flying (i.e. is it dangerous?)

If using delicate fabrics it's a good idea to use a fresh needle, because needles get blunted the more they are used.

I've never had one go flying. They have tended to snap in half so half is still attached to the machine and half is attached to the fabric

If using delicate fabrics it's a good idea to use a fresh needle, because needles get blunted the more they are used.

I've never had one go flying. They have tended to snap in half so half is still attached to the machine and half is attached to the fabric

That makes sense- I'm currently working with quite thick fabric and it certainly makes a different sound to the thin cotton lining (more of a thuddy, dull sound) when needle hits the fabric

I change needles for every garment. I also use needles chosen for the fabric I'm using, especially knits which can otherwise be snaggy.(I get v.cheap haberdashery though!).
Needles can indeed snap and ping off. If you are lucky they snap above the needle eye and the thread keeps them in place. Otherwise it is possible to get hit in the eye (I've done that, it hurt!).