How long do dryers last? Key signs to watch for and maintenance tips

Dryers make laundry faster and more convenient by drying clothes no matter the weather. But like every other appliance, they aren’t designed to last forever, and when they stop working, it seems to happen at the worst possible time.

This brings up an important question: How long do dryers last? Keep reading to learn about the average lifespan of a dryer, the factors that affect it, and how to make yours last longer.

Average lifespan of a dryer

The average clothes dryer lifespan is between 10 and 13 years, whether it’s a gas dryer or electric. High-quality brands often offer longer-lasting dryers due to better components. That said, dryer lifetime can vary significantly based on several important factors we discuss in the following section. 

Factors that affect the lifespan of a dryer

While reliable dryer brands last longer, how you use and care for them makes a big difference. Let’s look at key factors that affect a dryer's lifespan and how to help yours last as long as possible.

Usage and frequency

The more you run your dryer, the faster its parts wear down. Daily loads of laundry wear down the motor, drum rollers, and heating elements faster, causing the machine to work harder and shortening its lifespan. 

But it’s not just about the frequency; how much you put in it also matters. 

Overloading the drum might seem like a way to save time, but it actually puts extra strain on the motor and can lead to overheating. The drum also spins less efficiently when it’s stuffed full, making it harder for clothes to dry evenly. Give the dryer some breathing room to reduce stress on its internal parts and add years to its life.

Maintenance practices

Many dryer problems start with poor airflow, usually caused by a clogged lint filter. When lint builds up, it restricts airflow inside the machine, forcing it to work harder and heat up more than it should. Over time, this extra strain causes parts to wear out. Even worse, lint that collects in the vent hose or ductwork can become a serious fire hazard. To prevent this, clean the lint filter after every cycle and check the vent system every few months.

Installation quality

When a dryer isn’t placed on a level surface, it vibrates more during use. Over time, these vibrations loosen parts inside the machine, leading to faster wear and tear.

Poor airflow is another hidden issue that starts with where the dryer is installed. Putting it in a tight, damp, or unventilated space like a humid basement or narrow closet traps heat and moisture around the machine. This causes rust, mold, and even damage to electrical components.

Ensure your dryer is placed on a flat surface in a clean, dry area with plenty of space around it and adequate airflow to help extend its lifetime.

How long do washers and dryers last together?

All-in-one washer and dryer combos don’t last quite as long as separate washer and dryer units. On average, the lifespan of an all-in-one washer and dryer is about 7 years, compared to the 10 to 13 years you can expect from a separate dryer alone. This difference comes down to how combo units are designed and used.

A combo machine handles both washing and drying in a single drum, using the same motor, pump, and controls for both functions. This dual role puts twice the wear and tear on the internal parts. Additionally, manufacturers have to fit both washing and drying systems into a compact space, so they often use smaller or lighter-duty parts. While this makes the appliance more convenient and space-efficient, the motor, heating elements, and drum aren’t as heavy-duty as those in separate machines. As a result, these parts break down faster under constant use.

Another factor that shortens the combo unit's lifespan is the drying method. Most combo units use ventless drying systems, which are more complex and generate higher levels of heat and moisture inside the machine. 

Finally, since combo units combine two machines in one, they often become the only laundry appliance in a home. This means they get used every day or sometimes multiple times a day, with little chance to cool down between cycles. This high usage frequency further speeds up the wear and tear.

Signs that your dryer may need attention

Dryers don’t usually fail without warning; they gradually reduce their performance and give you subtle clues before they stop working. Pay attention to these warning signs to catch issues early.

• Longer drying times: On average, a dryer should take about 30 to 45 minutes to dry a typical load of laundry. If your clothes take much longer than usual, it’s often a sign that something is wrong. It could mean the heating element isn’t working properly, the lint filter or vent is clogged, or the airflow is restricted. 
• Noisy operation: Unusual sounds like banging, squeaking, or rattling during the drying cycle signal mechanical issues. These noises can come from worn belts, loose drum rollers, or failing motors. Ignoring these sounds can lead to bigger problems, so it’s essential to have your dryer checked if it suddenly becomes noisy.
• Inefficient drying: If your clothes come out damp or unevenly dried, the thermostat is either faulty, the heating element is damaged, or the vents are blocked. Inefficient drying wastes time and increases your energy bills because the machine has to work harder.
• Excessively hot exterior: While dryers naturally generate heat, the outside of the machine should never become dangerously hot to the touch. If you notice your dryer’s exterior feels unusually warm or hot, it could be overheating due to blocked vents, malfunctioning thermostats, or other internal issues. Overheating is a safety hazard and requires immediate attention to prevent damage or fire risk.

Deciding whether to repair or replace your dryer

Replacing your dryer is usually the smarter choice if it is older than 10 years. This is because older dryers break down more often, and parts like the motor, heating element, and belts naturally wear out and break down more frequently. In many cases, fixing one problem might only be a temporary solution before another part fails, leading to ongoing expenses and inconvenience. Older machines also tend to become less energy-efficient, which can increase your utility bills.

For newer machines, repairing minor issues can be worthwhile, especially if the repair cost is low. However, if the repair involves major components and costs more than half the value of a new dryer, replacement can be more cost-effective in the long term.

Keep your dryer running longer with the right care

A little attention now can save you from significant headaches later and keep your dryer working reliably for years to come. Simple habits like cleaning your dryer lint trap after every use, checking and clearing the vent regularly, and avoiding overloading your dryer can significantly affect how long your dryer lasts. 

Additionally, pay attention to early warning signs to address minor issues before they become costly repairs.