If your dryer is acting up, your first thought might be, “Time to get a new one.” But hold up—before you drop hundreds (or even over a thousand!) on a brand new machine, let’s talk about why repairing your existing dryer might be the smarter move.
Like most New Jersey household appliances, dryers include a number of parts to function in order for it to work properly. When you need to diagnose an issue, it is highly recommended that you seek out the help of a local service provider. If you’re located anywhere in central New Jersey, trust Immediate Appliance to help with dryer repair.
Here are 5 solid reasons to call your local repair tech before heading to the appliance store:
1. Older Dryers Are Built to Last
They really don’t make them like they used to. Many older dryers are made with stronger, more durable parts than the newer models on the market today. Newer machines often use more plastic and computerized components, which may look sleek—but can be more prone to failure. If your dryer is 10+ years old and just now starting to give you trouble, that’s a sign of quality. With a little maintenance, it can keep going strong.
2. Repairs Are Usually Cheaper Than Replacing
A common dryer repair—like replacing a heating element, belt, or thermostat—typically costs a fraction of the price of a new dryer. And let’s not forget the hidden costs that come with a new appliance: delivery, installation, haul-away fees, and possible electrical or venting upgrades.
3. You’re Avoiding the “New Model” Headaches
Many new dryers come with fancy digital displays, smart features, and sensors. Sounds great, right? Until one of those high-tech parts malfunctions and suddenly you’re stuck with a pricey repair—or worse, no easy fix at all. Older models are usually simpler, easier to work on, and less expensive to maintain in the long run.
4. Repairs Are Better for the Environment
When you repair instead of replace, you’re keeping a perfectly fixable machine out of the landfill and reducing the demand for new manufacturing. It’s a win-win: good for your wallet and the planet.
5. You Might Just Need a Tune-Up
Sometimes what seems like a big problem is actually something minor—a clogged vent, a worn-out belt, or just a little too much lint buildup inside the cabinet. A professional inspection and tune-up could get your dryer running like new again, without a major repair or replacement.
Why would I need to replace my dryer? Here are some issues that lead to replacement
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 if your dryer isn’t heating up, it could also mean bigger issues with the dryer’s heating element or thermostat. On the other hand, if it’s overheating, that could mean there’s something wrong with the temperature control system.
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. These parts can be replaced by a skilled dryer repair technician, if the noise keeps happening or gets worse, give us a call and we’ll be able to let you know if it makes sense to fix it or replace the machine.
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.
Knowing when to replace your dryer comes down to a few key signs: age, poor performance, high energy bills, and safety issues. If you notice any of these problems, it may be time to think about replacing your dryer.
However, if your dryer is giving you trouble, don’t assume it’s the end of the road. Most issues are fixable—and older machines still have plenty of life left in them. Give us a call, and we’ll help you decide if a repair makes sense (hint: it usually does!).