Dryer Lifespan: How Long Should Your Dryer Last and When to Replace It

When you buy a new dryer, a home appliance designed to remove moisture from clothes using heat and airflow. Also known as a clothes dryer, it’s one of the most used appliances in the house — and one of the first to show wear. Most dryers last between 10 and 13 years, but that’s not a guarantee. How long yours lasts depends on how often you use it, how well you clean it, and whether you ignore small problems until they become big ones.

Many people don’t realize that a dryer vent, the duct system that carries moist air out of the dryer and away from the home is just as important as the machine itself. A clogged vent forces the dryer to work harder, overheats the motor, and can shorten its life by years. Regular cleaning isn’t just a safety tip — it’s a lifespan extender. Same goes for the dryer drum, the rotating cylinder where clothes tumble. If it’s wobbling or making grinding noises, it’s not just annoying — it’s a sign the bearings or rollers are worn out. Fixing those parts early can add another 3–5 years to your dryer’s life.

Electric dryers usually last longer than gas ones because they have fewer moving parts and no gas lines to corrode or leak. But both types fail for the same reasons: dirty filters, worn belts, broken thermostats, or a damaged heating element. If your dryer takes two cycles to dry a load, heats up slowly, or shuts off mid-cycle, those aren’t just inconveniences — they’re warning signs. You don’t need to replace it right away. Sometimes a $50 part and an hour of work fixes it. Other times, if your dryer is over 10 years old and repair costs hit half the price of a new one, it’s smarter to replace it.

Energy use matters too. Older dryers can use twice as much electricity as new ENERGY STAR models. If your bills are climbing and your clothes are still damp, the cost of running it might be higher than the cost of replacing it. And let’s not forget safety — lint buildup is a leading cause of home fires. Cleaning your vent and filter isn’t just about efficiency; it’s about protecting your home.

Below, you’ll find real repair stories, cost breakdowns, and step-by-step checks from people who’ve been there. Whether you’re trying to decide if your dryer is worth fixing or just want to know what to watch for before it breaks down, these guides give you the facts — no fluff, no sales pitch, just what actually happens in homes across Taunton and beyond.