A clothes dryer is one of the most essential appliances in any household.
When it stops working correctly, you’re left wondering whether to repair a clothes dryer or invest in a new one. While some issues can be fixed with minor repairs, others indicate it’s time for a replacement. But now you must make the right decision to save money and guarantee efficient performance for years.
Here, we will discuss whether you replace and repair your clothes dryer.
Common Signs Your Dryer Needs Attention
1. Clothes Dryer Won’t Start
The most annoying trouble is when your clothes dryer won’t start in any way. An overblown fuse, a damaged power cord, or a problem with the starter switch can cause this. Minor electrical issues can sometimes be fixed more affordably than other more serious ones. These serious issues indicate that you need to get a new one.
2. Loud Noises or Unusual Vibrations
If your dryer is making bad or loud noises, it could be due to worn bearings, damaged belts, or a problem related to the clothes dryer drum. The bearings can be replaced, but if the noise persists, it could be a sign of a bigger issue.
3. Dryer Isn’t Heating Properly
If your dryer operates but doesn’t produce enough heat, it might be caused by a faulty heating element, an inoperative thermostat, or clogged vents. Professional technicians can check and repair these elements and restore them to working condition.
4. Takes Too Long to Dry Clothes
A dryer should efficiently dry your clothes within 45 minutes to an hour. If it takes your dryer several cycles to do the job, it could be due to a blocked vent, faulty heating element, or an inefficient design. In some cases, it indicates that your dryer has gotten older and is decreasing its efficiency.
5. Burning Smell or Overheating Issues
The smell of burning from your dryer is an alarming sign and must be dealt with immediately. The build-up of lint and faulty wiring may cause overheating that could cause flames. If repairing a clothes dryer does not resolve the issue, replace it.
Signs You Should Repair a Clothes Dryer Instead of Replacing It
1. The Dryer Is Less Than 8 Years Old
Most dryers are designed to last 10-15 years. If your dryer is new, fixing it could be the best solution. Dryers that are older and break frequently could not justify the expense of repair.
2. The Issue Is Minor and Fixable
Certain laundry dryer repair issues are relatively easy to address. If your dryer makes weird noises, takes longer to dry clothes, or has a blocked vent, a professional can quickly determine and fix the issue at a lower cost than purchasing a new one.
3. The Repair Cost Is Less Than 50% of the Replacement Cost
The general rule is if clothes dryer repair is less than half the cost of a new dryer, it’s worth fixing. Small issues like an unreliable thermostat, a damaged belt, or a faulty heating element are often repaired at a low cost.
When to Consider Replacing Your Clothes Dryer
1. Your Dryer Is Over 10-15 Years Old
How long do dryers last? On average, dryers work for 10 to 15 years. If your dryer is past this range and frequently breaks down, replacement is the smarter choice.
2. Repair Costs Are Too High
If clothes dryer repair costs exceed half the price of a new dryer, it’s time to invest in a new unit. Expensive repairs, like a motor replacement, electronic control board, or drum, could make the replacement-wide decision.
3. Energy Efficiency Has Dropped
Older dryers consume much more energy than the latest energy-efficient models. If your electrical bills have spiked and your dryer has taken longer to dry your clothes, choose the new one.
The Cost of Fixing a Dryer vs. Buying a New One
1. Average Repair Costs
The price of repair for dryers in Huntsville, AL services vary according to the problem:
- Replacing the thermal fuse: $100 to $150
- Fixing a broken belt: $120-$200
- Repairing the heating element $150-$300
- Repairing a motor is between $250 and $450.
2. Cost of a New Dryer
The cost of a new dryer ranges between $400 and $1500, depending on the brand and features. If repair costs are close to this, a replacement may be the better option.
How to Extend the Lifespan of Your Clothes Dryer
Regular maintenance is important to extend the life of the dryer.
1. Clean the Lint Filter After Every Load
A blocked lint filter could lead to overheating and lower effectiveness. Its cleanness guarantees the best performance.
2. Inspect and Clean the Dryer Vent Regularly
An unblocked vent could cause danger of fire. Clean it by a professional every year.
3. Don’t overload the Dryer
It is not recommended to overload the dryer. The motor can be stressed by overloading and belt, decreasing its lifespan. Stick to manufacturer-recommended load sizes.For expert dryer repair Huntsville AL, trust escanapplianceservices to provide fast, reliable, and affordable solutions. Call us now to arrange your repairs to your clothes dryer to get your dryer in a good condition once again!
