When Should I Replace My Dryer?

Deciding when to replace your dryer can be tricky, but it’s important to know when it’s time to invest in a new one. Dryers are essential appliances, and when they start to break down or aren’t working as well as they used to, it might be time to replace them. Like most household appliances, dryers include a number of parts to function in order for it to work properly. Therefore, when diagnosing an issue, it is highly recommended that you seek out the help of a local service provider such as Immediate Appliance to do the work for you.

Possible Issues

Here are a few signs that can help you figure out when to replace your dryer.

Age – Dryers typically last around 10 to 15 years, depending on how often you use them and how well they’ve been maintained. If your dryer is nearing or past that age, it might be losing efficiency. An older dryer could also be using more energy, which can lead to higher utility bills. If your dryer is getting up there in age, it could be a good idea to replace it with a newer, more energy-efficient model.

Not Drying Properly – If your dryer is struggling to dry clothes, it could be a sign that something’s wrong. If you find yourself running multiple cycles to get clothes dry, or if clothes are still damp after a full cycle, it’s time to take a closer look. It might be something simple like a clogged vent, but it could also mean bigger issues with the dryer’s heating element or thermostat. Either way, if it’s not drying clothes properly, it’s worth considering a replacement.

Strange Noises – A dryer making loud, weird noises is never a good sign. If you hear banging, squealing, or thumping sounds, it could mean that parts like the drum rollers, belt, or bearings are worn out. While sometimes these parts can be replaced, if the noise keeps happening or gets worse, it could mean bigger problems inside the machine. Constantly having to fix your dryer might make replacing it the more cost-effective option.

Frequent Repairs – If you’re calling a repair technician every few months to fix your dryer, it might be time to replace it. Constant repairs add up, and over time, the cost of fixing the dryer can surpass the cost of buying a new one. Even if the repairs seem small, you might find yourself dealing with more issues soon. If it’s costing you a lot to keep fixing it, getting a new dryer might make more sense.

Increased Energy Bill – Older dryers tend to use more energy, which can lead to higher electric bills. If you’ve noticed that your dryer is taking longer to dry clothes or if your energy bill has gone up, it might be due to an inefficient dryer. Newer dryers are designed to be more energy-efficient and can save you money over time. Replacing an old dryer with a more efficient one could lower your energy costs.

Dryer Doesn’t Heat/Overheats – If your dryer isn’t heating up, it’s probably a problem with the heating element or thermostat. On the other hand, if it’s overheating, that could mean there’s something wrong with the temperature control system. Either way, these are not small issues. While some repairs may fix the problem, a dryer that keeps having these issues may be ready for replacement.

Visible Damage – If your dryer has visible damage like rust, dents, or cracks, it might be time to let it go. While these issues don’t always affect performance right away, they could point to bigger problems, especially if the damage is inside the dryer or affects important parts. If the damage is serious or affecting how the dryer works, it’s probably time for a new one.

Knowing when to replace your dryer comes down to a few key signs: age, poor performance, constant repairs, high energy bills, and safety issues. If you notice any of these problems, it may be time to think about replacing your dryer. A new model will likely work better, save you money on energy bills, and prevent any safety risks. Taking the step to replace an old, malfunctioning dryer will make your laundry routine much easier and safer in the long run. Call Immediate Appliance today and speak with one of our professionals to guide you in the right direction of a brand new dryer.