Should I replace a 10 year old dryer?

Author: Damon Tremblay  |  Last update: Saturday, August 30, 2025

As with other appliances, the 50% Rule applies: if your appliance is over 50% of its expected lifespan of 10 to 13 years, and it costs more than 50% of its replacement cost to repair it, it may be time to think about replacement.

Is it worth fixing a dryer that is 10 years old?

Younger than 5 years: Generally worth repairing, as they often have a longer lifespan ahead. Older than 10 years: More likely to be a waste of money, especially if the repair costs approach or exceed the price of a new unit.

At what age should you replace the dryer?

The average lifespan of your dryer varies depending on several factors, including usage and maintenance. Typically, a well-maintained dryer can last for around 10 to 15 years.

How long is a dryer expected to last?

Washer, 10-14 years, and Dryer, 10-13 years:

A family average of eight loads a week will yield an average of a (low) double-digit life. And type doesn't have a huge effect –front-loaders and top-loaders both have their own problems.

Should you fix a 12 year old dryer?

Repairing your tumbler dryer can give you the benefit of getting more efficient heating methods and newer technologies. But if your dryer is 10 years old and above, it's always better to invest in a new machine.

Appliances Made to BREAK! What Should You Buy Built to LAST?

How do you know if your dryer is going bad?

Banging, popping, squealing or grinding noises are telltale signs that a dryer is broken. If you're hearing banging and popping, the usual culprit is a worn-out belt. As a dryer belt wears down over time, it can cause the drum to move erratically and create the noises you're hearing.

When not to repair a dryer?

That said, if your clothes dryer is more than halfway through its lifespan—7 years or more—and the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new one, you should consider replacing it. But if fixing it is less than half the cost of buying something new, a repair is probably the better option.

Can a dryer last 30 years?

The average life expectancy of a dryer is around 10-13 years. And no matter how great your clothes dryer is, all appliances will wear down eventually.

When to buy a new dryer?

Clothes dryers typically last for about 10 to 13 years.

What is the best dryer brand?

The Best Dryers of 2025
  • Best Dryer. Electrolux ELFE7637AT.
  • Best Large Capacity Dryer. Maytag MED7230HW.
  • Best Compact Ventless Dryer. Beko HPD24414W.
  • Best Designed Dryer. LG DLEX6700B.
  • Best Dryer for Pet Owners. Maytag Pet Pro MED6500MBK.

Is a 20 year old dryer safe?

Clothes dryers typically last for about 10 to 13 years. If your dryer has been around for nearly a decade, you will likely be searching for a replacement soon. Ancient dryers should get the boot, as older machines can actually cost you more money. Newer, certified models use less energy, helping you save on costs.

How much should a new dryer cost?

A new dryer costs $800 to $1,200 on average. The cost of a dryer depends on the brand, features, and whether it's a gas- or electric-powered model.

Is it cheaper to replace a dryer motor or buy a new dryer?

When repair costs approach 50% or more of the price of a new dryer, it's often better to upgrade. For example, a broken motor can cost $300–$500 to replace—nearly the price of a basic new dryer.

How do you know when a dryer needs to be replaced?

Excessive noise is a sign it's time to replace your washer or dryer. Whether it's banging, clanking, rattling, or any other unusual sounds, when your washer or dryer is doing its best impression of a rocket about to launch, it's likely in urgent need of repair or replacement.

How can I make my old dryer work better?

  1. STEP 1: CLEAN THE LINT SCREEN. Regular cleaning of your dryer's lint screen can help you ensure proper airflow to the appliance and may also help improve dryer speed. ...
  2. STEP 2: CLEAN THE DRYER VENTS. ...
  3. STEP 3: AVOID OVERLOADING THE DRYER. ...
  4. STEP 4: SELECT THE RIGHT DRYER CYCLES.

Why do dryers not last long?

After all, dryers aren't designed to last forever. With moving parts and heating elements subject to water and heat, they have a finite lifespan. However, attentive maintenance and careful use may extend your machine's longevity.

Should I repair or replace a 10 year old dryer?

As with other appliances, the 50% Rule applies: if your appliance is over 50% of its expected lifespan of 10 to 13 years, and it costs more than 50% of its replacement cost to repair it, it may be time to think about replacement.

When should I be concerned about my dryer?

Clothes not drying: This can be caused by various factors like clogged vents, faulty moisture sensors, malfunctioning heating elements, or broken belts. Excessive noise: Loud banging, screeching, or grinding noises often indicate worn drum bearings, damaged rollers, or loose components.

What is the life expectancy of a Whirlpool dryer?

If you're thinking about investing in a large household appliance, it's natural to wonder about its longevity. On average, Whirlpool dryers last about 10 to 13 years, but this lifespan can vary significantly based on the type of dryer, frequent usage and regular maintenance.

Is it worth fixing a 20 year old dryer?

For example, if your current dryer is more than 15 years old, it's probably best to replace it since this is about the time when most dryers reach the end of their serviceable lifespan (both gas and electric unit).

Who makes the most reliable washer and dryer?

Most Reliable Washer & Dryer Brands
  • Bosch. Topping our list is Bosch, a German manufacturer known for its reliable, compact appliances and commitment to high-quality manufacturing. ...
  • Miele. ...
  • Whirlpool. ...
  • Samsung. ...
  • LG. ...
  • GE. ...
  • Electrolux. ...
  • Maytag.

What is the lifespan of a condenser dryer?

Condenser dryer: not energy-efficient

This example is also based on a dryer that lasts up to 10 years on average, depending on its usage.

What usually goes bad on a dryer?

The heating elements on an electric dryer and the gas valve coils are the parts that most often go bad on a standard dryer. Also, for smart dryers, the sensor can sometimes stop working for a variety of reasons.

Are old dryers good?

Old dryers can often be more reliable than newer models, thanks to their robust motor and durable belt mechanisms. If you're considering whether to replace your manual dryer with a newer, more innovative model, you're in for an insightful comparison.

Do dryers stop if they get too hot?

The high-limit thermostat, or thermal fuse, is a safety feature that's designed to trip whenever the dryer reaches a dangerous temperature. Once the thermal fuse reaches its threshold, it will turn off the heating element or dryer.

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