When Should I Replace My Dryer?

We’ve covered when you should replace your washing machine, but how can you tell when it’s time to do the same for your dryer? Read on to learn about the common signs you need a new dryer, whether it’s worth fixing a dryer, and how you can get a new one with Rent-A-Center.

1. Your Dryer Won’t Heat Up or Dry Your Clothes

This might be the most straightforward indicator that it’s time for a new clothes dryer. After all, your dryer only has one job — to dry your clothes. Hopefully, if your dryer isn’t heating up, it’s due to something simple, like a clogged vent hose, tripped breaker, or a shut-off gas valve. Other times, it’s a more serious issue, like a damaged heating element or blown thermal fuse.

For more specific troubleshooting help with this problem, visit our guide, “Why Won’t My Dryer Heat?”

2. Condensation Keeps Building Up

While it might not be an immediately apparent problem, you don’t want to leave dryer condensation unchecked. Built-up moisture in your dryer can be hard on your machine, lead to harmful mold growth, and turn lint into a sludgy fire hazard.

Fortunately, dryer condensation doesn’t have to remain a mist-ery! If you’ve noticed condensation in your dryer after running it, it could be because it’s stored in a damp or poorly ventilated area like a garage. In that case, installing a dehumidifier near your dryer could do the trick. When that isn’t the problem, a clogged vent duct or lint filter normally is. To unclog your vent hose, you’ll need to:

• Unplug your dryer from power and pull it away from the wall.
• Disconnect the vent hose from the back of your dryer.
• Use a vacuum and dryer vent brush to unclog your ducting.
• Hook the dryer duct back up to the rear of your dryer.
• Connect your dryer to power and push it back into place.

With any luck, your dryer will be back in working order in no time! If not, it might be time to save some sweat by replacing your unit.

3. It Produces a Smoky Smell

The first thing you should do if your dryer emits a burning odor is turn it off and unplug it — nobody wants an electrical fire! From there, you’ll want to check your lint filter and around/underneath your dryer for excess lint buildup.

After cleaning up any lint you find, you can turn your dryer back on and keep a nose out for any smoky smells. If you still notice a burning odor, it could be due to a bad thermostat, failing motor, or exposed wiring — time to call a professional or consider replacing your dryer.

4. It’s Excessively Noisy

Your dryer probably isn’t the quietest appliance in your household, but excessive noise is never a good sign. Squeaking, grinding, rattling, or thumping sounds can be a warning that your dryer is on its way out. A loud cycle every once in a while could be caused by a load that’s too large, but consistent noisiness is often the result of one of these faulty components:

• Drum glides
• Drive motor pulleys
• Drive belts
• Blower wheels
• Baffles or lifters

Some of these parts can be diagnosed and replaced at home with a bit of time and well-executed research — we believe in you! Others might require a professional’s assistance, but you’ll want to consider whether your dryer is worth fixing before ringing up a pro.

Is it Worth it to Fix a Dryer?

Practically everything can be fixed, but getting your dryer operating again might not always be cost-effective. Expensive repairs can hang your wallet out to dry, and even affordable repairs add up over time. You’ll want to weigh the age of your dryer and maintenance costs against the benefits and savings a new dryer could provide.

How Long Should a Dryer Last?

The average lifespan of a dryer is about ten years. Think about how much technology has advanced since then — ten years ago, the Google Chromecast was brand new; now, smart televisions are the norm. If the total repairs for your dryer are more than (or close to) the cost of a replacement, it might be time to upgrade to one that is more convenient, energy-efficient, and has more features.

Rent-to-Own a New Washer and Dryer at Rent-A-Center

If your dryer has reached the end of its life, don’t fret. Rent-A-Center offers flexible lease renewal payments on brand-new clothes dryers. After all, you deserve high quality, no matter your budget.

If you plan on replacing your dryer, consider upgrading your washing machine at the same time. We get it — a new dryer and washer sound like a big investment, but it’s often the best option since you’ll experience:

• Improved Compatibility: When you replace both appliances together, you ensure that they’re compatible — resulting in higher efficiency.
• Peace of Mind: You won’t have to worry about your washer being the weak link in your laundry system. Less hassle, headaches, and repairs; it’s a win, win, win!
• Aesthetic Cohesion: Upgrading your dryer alone can make your old washing machine look outdated in comparison. When you want your home to look polished, upgrading both simultaneously could be the right move.

Plus, Rent-A-Center’s bundle and save deals can help you save hard-earned cash when you choose to replace your washer and dryer at the same time. So don’t get caught with soggy clothes — take proactive steps toward a more efficient and convenient laundry day routine at your local Rent-A-Center.