Repair or Replace Your Dryer? How to Decide

When a dryer stops working, the first question is usually "how much will this cost to fix?" The second, more important question is whether fixing it is even worth it. Both the age of the machine and the type of problem matter here, and getting the decision wrong in either direction costs you money.

The 50% Rule

A common rule of thumb in appliance repair is this: if a repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new comparable dryer, replacement usually makes more financial sense — especially if the machine is already past the middle of its expected lifespan. A dryer typically lasts 10 to 13 years with normal use and basic maintenance.

Repairs That Are Almost Always Worth It

Some dryer problems are inexpensive, quick, and don't signal a deeper issue with the machine, even on heavy-use brands like Maytag:

• A broken belt or idler pulley — a common wear part on older dryers, usually a straightforward fix.
• A worn thermal fuse — often the cause when a dryer runs but produces no heat.
• A clogged or crushed vent line — this isn't even a dryer problem, but a buildup issue that restores performance once cleared.
• A faulty door switch — an inexpensive part that stops the dryer from starting at all.

Signs It's Time to Replace Instead

A few signals point toward replacement being the smarter move, even if the dryer can technically still be repaired:

• The drum motor or main control board has failed on a machine already past 10 years old.
• You've already had two or more repairs in the past two years.
• The dryer is visibly rusting on the drum or housing, which can eventually damage clothing.
• Energy bills have crept up noticeably, suggesting the heating element or thermostat is working harder than it should.