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Tips for Extending Your Dryer’s Lifespan

Dryers can be expensive. Before you go about replacing yours, have you ever wondered how long dryers last? Learn how to care for your dryer so it works well.

The question isn’t “How long do dryers last?”; it’s “How long should dryers last?” And the answer depends on how well you’re able to maintain your dryer. The way to make it last the longest? Use it correctly and perform regular dryer maintenance. Not only will that extend your dryer’s lifespan, but it will also give you the best results when it comes to drying your clothing.

So how long should a dryer last?

What is the average life of a dryer, you wonder? A dryer typically lasts about 12-13 years; however, some dryer manufacturers boast up to a 25-year lifespan. It’s important to remember, though, that clothes dryer life expectancy goes hand in hand with how often the dryer is used and how well you maintain the appliance.

How do I lengthen a dryer lifespan?

Ensure your dryer stays in tip-top shape for many years to come by following these simple tips:

1. Read the manual.

You may think that drying clothes involves simply stuffing them into the tub, closing the door and pushing a button. Those settings options, however, are there for a reason. Read through your dryer manufacturer’s instruction manual to see how you can improve its performance.

2. Divide loads.

For faster, more even drying, dry the lightweight fabrics and heavyweight fabrics in appropriately sized separate loads.

3. Remove lint.

Realistically, you should be removing lint from your dryer’s filter after every load.Even a little lint in the trap can cause inefficiency and longer dry times.

4. Keep the dryer clean.

Lint can build up in the vent and on the back of the dryer. For performance and fire safety reasons, it’s best to check these areas at least once per year to remove the excess lint.

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5. Reduce the heat and drying time.

High heat isn’t necessary for every fabric. Likewise, loads take different amounts of time to dry. Save energy— and your clothes from being damaged— by using a lower heat setting and shorter dry times, when possible. For example, start with a 40-minute, low-heat cycle. If your load isn’t dry, continue drying in 10-minute increments rather than starting another full cycle.

6. Utilize the moisture sensor.

If your dryer is equipped with a moisture sensor, make sure it is on, so you can avoid excessive drying. To ensure top detection, clean the sensor once a month.

7. Air dry occasionally.

Air drying clothes every once in a while will not only extend the average life of your dryer and pocketbook a break; it will actually help to prolong the life of your clothing.

Signs it’s time to replace your dryer

Even with regular maintenance, a dryer’s lifespan isn’t infinite. Knowing when it’s time to replace your dryer can save you from frustrating laundry days and unexpected repair costs. Here are some key signs that it might be time to invest in a new dryer:

• Clothes Won’t Dry: If your clothes are consistently coming out damp even after a full cycle, it could be a sign that your dryer’s heating element is failing.
• Noises from a Broken Blower: Unusual sounds like grinding, squeaking, or banging could indicate a broken blower or other internal issues that might be too costly to repair.
• Decline in Efficiency: If your dryer is taking longer to dry clothes than it used to, it’s likely losing efficiency, which can drive up your energy bills.
• Excessive Heat: If the exterior of your dryer is hot to the touch or your laundry room becomes excessively warm during a cycle, it could be a sign of a serious malfunction.
• Frequent Breakdowns: If you’re constantly calling for repairs, it may be more cost-effective to replace the dryer altogether.
• Age of the Dryer: If your appliance is reaching the upper limits of a dryer’s lifespan (think: over 10 years old), it might be time to start shopping for a new one.

Don’t worry, be warranty.

With the proper care, you can extend a dryer lifespan for years to come. But even the best appliances won’t live forever. That’s where an American Home Shield® home warranty comes in. When an unexpected, covered breakdown occurs, you won’t have to worry about the stress of an expensive repair or replacement.

Related: What is a Home Warranty?

With coverage for the parts and components of all your most essential laundry and kitchen appliances, American Home Shield gives you the peace of mind you need to keep your home running. Plus, American Home Shield covers your home’s systems, like your HVAC, electrical, plumbing, and more regardless of age or prior maintenance history— now that’s something to feel good about.

Check out the Repair Maintenance section of our Home Matters blog for more helpful dryer advice, including what to do when your dryer won’t spin.

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