When looking for a reliable washer and dryer, see if the company has tested its machines' longevity. Reliable brands such as LG, Whirlpool and Samsung receive high marks for longevity.
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. Many are curious as to when to replace the dryer.
At the lower end like your price range, Whirlpool. GE's higher lines like Cafe and Profile are good, but their low-end stuff isn't. That's where Whirlpool does better. But you will not get BIFL, especially with fancy features like convection.
Both Whirlpool and GE have strong reputations for durability and reliability. GE ranges are known for their advanced technology, but Whirlpool stands out for delivering dependable performance at a more affordable price point.
Both LG and GE have some of the best quality washers and dryers on the market. While LG continues to invest in innovative systems and designs, GE balances technology improvements with durability. Consumers can benefit from adding either brand to their home.
Dryer repair costs will vary depending on the issue. For example, it will cost much less to replace a dryer belt than a motor. 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.
Whirlpool electric dryers last around 10 years on average. Some dryers might last up to 15 years or more if they are well cared for. Washers and dryers wear out with use, so your laundry appliances might break down faster if you have a significant laundry-producing family compared to a person who lives alone.
Energy use
We've previously found condenser dryers to not be very energy efficient. Along with older vented varieties, they use around three times more energy to dry a load than their heat pump counterparts. This means vented and condenser dryers cost more to run in the long term than a heat pump.
Air-vented dryers draw air from the room in which they are installed, heat it and lead it through the humid clothing in the drum to evaporate the moisture. The humid air is then expelled to the external environment. Air-vented dryers thus require an exhaust to the outside, making them less practical.
Speed Queen is the gold standard in reliability. Known for their commercial-grade construction, Speed Queen washers and dryers are built to last for decades—25 years, to be exact. They are frequently used in laundromats and are popular in homes that require heavy-duty, dependable machines.
Compared to a top load impeller washer, front load washers are still 25% more energy and water efficient. Furthermore, front load washers help save on drying time and energy by spinning clothes much faster than top load washers to extract more water out of clothes.
The biggest factor that decides whether or not an expensive washing machine is better is how efficient it is. The use of large amounts of hot water is what typically raises energy bills. More efficient washing machines will use less water and, in turn, cost you less money.
Whirlpool and Maytag are both trusted manufacturers that have high-quality washers and dryers. CNET ranked Whirlpool as the top most reliable manufacturer for washers and dryers. However, the individual customer reviews rank Maytag higher than Whirlpool. Still, both brands experience occasional manufacturing defects.
Fisher & Paykel dryer
Fisher & Paykel, while a known name in home appliances, unfortunately, falls into the category of worst brand dryer due to its lower reliability ratings.
Dryer Makes Noises
Another one of the most common clothes dryer problems is loud noises. There could be humming, squeaking, and thumping, all signs that your dryer needs some help. Certain parts of your machine can wear down over time and cause this raucous, like a worn-out dryer belt, drum roller, or glides.
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.
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.
Both brands excel in different areas. LG offers advanced features, such as AI cycles and TurboWash technology, ideal for tech-savvy users. Maytag is known for durability and powerful cleaning cycles, making it great for heavy-duty laundry. The better choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and budget.
How long do LG washers and dryers last? LG washers and dryers will last for 10 to 15 years.
Choose Bosch for superior quietness and advanced drying. Opt for LG if you're seeking smart connectivity and enhanced cleaning.