How much does it cost to repair a dryer?

Reviewed by Adam Graham remodeling expert. Written by Fixr.com.

The average family of four washes and dries 8 to 10 loads of laundry every week. With each load taking about two hours to complete from start to finish, having a working dryer is imperative to keep the job running smoothly. However, while many dryers are designed to last for around 10 years, they can suffer various faults over time, leading to problems that need to be fixed.

From faulty doors to blown fuses, broken belts, and defective motors, many things can go wrong with your dryer. A professional technician can diagnose and fix any issue that arises. Most homeowners pay between $100 and $200 for dryer repair. For example, replacing a broken thermostat costs about $150, but prices range depending on the problem. A faulty door latch can be fixed for $50, while a broken motor may cost up to $450 to replace.

Dryer Repair Cost

Average Cost to Repair a Dryer by Type of Dryer

There are two main types of dryers: gas and electric. They basically carry out the same basic function of drying your clothes, but one relies on electric power while the other relies on gas. Your dryer’s repair cost is influenced by the type of dryer.

Electric Dryer Repair

Repairing an electric dryer averages $50 to $400, depending on the problem’s size and scale. Electric dryers are slightly cheaper and easier to repair than gas dryers and cost less upfront. However, they are usually a little more expensive to run, especially in cities with high electricity costs. They need more time to heat up than gas dryers. Because electric dryers need to run longer than gas dryers, maintenance and repairs are expected.

Gas Dryer Repair

Repairing a gas dryer ranges from $100 to $450. Many people opt for gas dryers because they are more affordable and efficient in the long run. However, the installation is more costly. Repairs can be more expensive than electric dryers because qualified technicians need to complete even the simplest repairs. Improper repairs increase the risk of gas leaks, so careful training and certification are required for appliance repair specialists to work on gas dryers.

Cost to Fix a Dryer by Type of Repair

Dryers are complex appliances with different components that can suffer faults and failures, leading to many possible problems. If certain parts break, the appliance might still be usable but not quite as effective. If more important parts break, the dryer might not work at all. The table below shows common component issues and repair costs:

Dryer Roller Repair

Fixing dryer rollers costs $50 to $100. Dryer roller repairs fix damage to this support component that keeps the drum in place during each rotation. Rollers are found on the appliance’s back panel within the cabinet. They are subject to wear and tear, especially after five to ten years of use. If your dryer makes a thumping or squealing noise, the rollers may be damaged and need to be repaired.

Dryer Timer Repair

Repairing the dryer timer typically costs $50 to $100. These repairs are important because the timer controls overall dryer functions by setting the load preferences and keeping the cycle going. If there are any problems with the dryer timer, the appliance will likely just stop working or stop in the middle of a dry cycle. The small electric motor in the dryer often malfunctions and needs to be professionally repaired to get the drying cycle back on track.

Dryer Door Repair

Dryer door repairs cost between $50 and $125. If your dryer door does not close or latch correctly, it might be an issue with a worn-out latch from repeated use or falling out of position. A repairman may be able to adjust the latch and get it working so that you can actually start and finish cycles. Remember that the dryer will not run a cycle if the door is not closed properly, so even if it is just a sensor thrown off, dryer door repairs should be a priority.

Dryer Bearing Repair

Repairing the bearing in a dryer ranges from $75 to $150. The dryer bearing sits around the drum and allows it to turn smoothly. The drum cannot rotate cleanly if it breaks, which can cause problems and make the appliance less efficient. A sudden squealing sound is the most common sign of broken dryer bearings. If you hear anything unusual, it is best to speak to your appliance repair company just to be safe.

Dryer Belt Repair

Repairing a dryer belt averages $100 to $200. Belts are found around the outside of the drum. They are attached to a pulley system connected to the motor and used to rotate the drum. When they break, the drum might not rotate properly or at all. A full replacement might be needed, or the belt may need reattaching or sealing.

Dryer Motor Repair

Repairing a dryer motor ranges from $150 to $250. The motor operates the machine and provides the power to rotate the drum. Sometimes, motors can become covered in lint and must be cleaned, but a full replacement may be needed. If you notice the dryer humming instead of tumbling even after starting a cycle, then the motor could be worn out and need repairs or replacement.

Dryer Heating Element Repair

Repairing a dryer heating element costs between $150 and $250. These components are only found in electric dryers and are responsible for heating the inside to dry the clothes more quickly. If the air is not warming up as needed to dry your clothes, there is likely damage to the heating element or broken heating coils. Sometimes these parts burn out or break, especially in older dryers, so keep an eye out if your electric dryer loses efficiency.

Dryer Drum Repair

If you need dryer drum repair, plan to pay from $150 to $500, depending on how severe the problem is. Remember, the drum holds all your laundry and tumbles through a spin cycle to dry clothes, so any cracks in this surface affect the overall performance. A professional repairer determines if the crack can be filled to repair it or if any other connecting parts like the drum belt or motor need fixing. Otherwise, a replacement may be required.

Average Cost to Fix a Dryer by Type of Replacement

When a dryer component breaks or wears down, a regular repair might not be the best option or even possible. Instead, many parts are often replaced with new ones, and the costs of this vary, depending on the part. Some components cost just a few dollars, while others are more expensive. The table below shows common replacement parts and the costs to fit them.

Dryer Knob Replacement

Fixing a dryer knob costs between $50 and $75. This is one of the cheapest dryer repair jobs, involving one of the simplest and cheapest parts. The knobs on your dryer select different programs and settings, but they can crack or break from accidents and impacts. Old knobs can be replaced in less than half an hour. Appliance repair professionals have replacement knobs available because this is such a common problem.

Dryer Filter Replacement

Dryer filter replacement ranges from $50 to $75. The filter traps lint and dust on or in the clothes you place in the dryer. Over time, filters can clog up with this lint. You can clean most filters, but new ones may be needed eventually. Check and clean your filters regularly to extend their lifespan and improve dryer performance. If you notice excessive lint and dust on clean laundry loads, ask a professional for help.

Replace a Dryer Door Switch

Replacing a door switch averages $50 to $150. The door switch is a small and cheap component, but it is very important because it detects when the door is closed or open to prevent the dryer from running with an open door. The dryer may not start if the switch breaks because it may think the door is open. Repairers need to remove the lint trap and lift the top panel off to remove the old door switch and install a new one.

Dryer Vent Replacement

Replacing a dryer vent costs between $75 and $150. Dryer vents play a key part in your appliance’s safe functioning, helping to remove the moist air from the dryer and transport it out of the home. Vents can get clogged with lint or may crack or become punctured, so it is important to check and clean them regularly. Keep in mind that replacing a dryer vent usually takes two to four hours.

Dryer Roller Replacement

Replacing the rollers in a dryer averages $100 to $150. The rollers sit behind your dryer’s back panel and hold the drum in place to rotate smoothly. Most machines require two rollers. If they break or wear down, you may hear unpleasant noises coming from the appliance. Fortunately, replacement rollers are inexpensive and readily available with the help of a professional appliance repairer.

Dryer Igniter Replacement

Replacing an igniter in a dryer costs between $100 and $250. Igniters are only found in gas dryers, and they light the gas that powers the appliance. It cannot get hot enough to light the gas if an igniter breaks, so the dryer will not heat up. Replacement igniters are usually inexpensive, but fitting them in place can take time because the dryer must be disassembled and reassembled.

Dryer Bearing Replacement

Replacing a dryer bearing averages $100 to $250, depending on the make and model. You can often tell that a dryer bearing is broken or worn out because the dryer makes a squealing noise, and the drum does not rotate smoothly. Your appliance repairer needs to shut off the power and remove the top/front of the dryer before taking out the drum and putting on a new bearing.

Dryer Thermostat Replacement

Replacing a dryer thermostat ranges from $100 to $260. Many of today’s dryers have several thermostats - one that turns the heating element on and off and another responsible for cutting the power if the appliance overheats. If either thermostat breaks, your dryer could get overly hot, scorch your clothes, and potentially start a fire, so it’s best to look at this problem immediately.

Replace a Dryer Belt

Replacing a dryer belt ranges from $150 to $250. Dryer belts break under too much stress, so you should avoid overloading the dryer. Broken belts often must be replaced because repairing them can be very difficult. To replace a dryer belt, the technician must disassemble the appliance by removing the top and front panels to access the drum and then remove the old belt.

Dryer Timer Replacement

Replacing a dryer timer motor costs between $150 and $300. The dryer timer motor tracks the time of your drying cycles and turns the dryer off when the correct time elapses. If your timer motor breaks, the timer may not advance correctly when you start a cycle, and the dryer will keep running. A dryer repair professional will need to take off the control knob and open the control panel to remove the faulty dryer timer and put in a new one.

Dryer Coil Replacement

Replacing the coil, also known as the gas ignition coil, in a dryer ranges from $150 to $300. These coils are only found in gas dryers and form part of the igniter system, which helps the appliance function properly and heat the air. If you see that the igniter in your dryer is glowing and then going out, there may be an issue with the coils. In most cases, coils need to be replaced instead of repaired.

Replace a Dryer Heating Element

Replacing a heating element in your dryer averages $150 to $350, depending on the make and model. Some of the more high-end dryers have more expensive heating elements, leading to higher repair costs. Often, faulty heating elements must be fully replaced to ensure safe and reliable dryer performance moving forward because warm air is paramount to successful drying.

Dryer Motor Replacement

Replacing a dryer motor ranges from $250 to $450, depending on the make and model. More expensive motors in luxury laundry brands have higher repair costs. However, your repair company can locate the right motor and offer any affordable alternatives for your specific machine. Signs that your motor may need replacing include a humming sound emanating from the dryer or a stiff drum that cannot be turned by hand.

Dryer Drum Replacement

Dryer drum replacement costs between $300 and $450 or even more on some high-end models. Weigh the costs of getting a new drum or dryer in this case. Drums can get cracked if heavy items are placed inside, and these cracks can cause issues like a higher fire risk or a chance of your clothes getting torn in the dryer. If you accidentally left a phone or a sharp object in your clothes before turning on the dryer, you may be at risk of dryer drum damage. You should have a professional take a closer look.

Average Dryer Repair Cost by Type of Problem

If you are not an expert in dryers, you might not know exactly which dryer component is at fault when a problem occurs. Instead, you might notice a general issue, such as a strange sound or the drum not spinning correctly. There could be various causes for these problems, and the table shows how repair costs vary, depending on the issue.

Dryer Will Not Turn On

Fixing a dryer that does not start costs between $50 and $450. There are many possible reasons for this, ranging from simple fixes like broken door switches to more complex and costly repair jobs like a new control board, timer, or drive motor. Hire a professional technician to diagnose the problem.

Squeaky Dryer Repair

Fixing a noisy dryer ranges from $75 to $450, depending on the problem. There are a few potential causes of a noisy dryer, and some are easier and less expensive to fix than others. It might be an issue with the belt or bearings, which can be relatively cheap to fix. However, it might also be an issue with the motor, which is much more costly.

Dryer Not Heating Repair

Fixing a dryer that does not heat averages $100 to $350. The price for this repair depends on the problem because it could be something wrong with the heating element or with the thermostat or igniter when using a gas dryer. A clogged vent, poor gas flow, or a tripped circuit breaker may also be responsible for a dryer not heating. So it is important to have a professional look and find the actual source of the problem.

Dryer Will Not Tumble

Fixing a dryer that does not tumble costs between $100 and $450. Have a professional repairman take a close look at your appliance to find out what is wrong. It might be a simple issue with the belt or pulley assembly or a more serious issue with the motor or drum. Appliance repair companies may need to replace a broken drive belt, motor, drum bearing, or drum glides depending on the damage.

Dryer Drum Not Spinning

Repairing a dryer with a drum that does not spin ranges from $100 to $450, depending on the parts that need repairing/replacing. This issue can be caused by a broken belt, which can be repaired or replaced cheaply, or it might be something more expensive like a faulty motor. If the dryer drum spins easily when you push it by hand, this is a sign the drive belt has snapped and requires replacement.

Dryer Timer Stuck

Repairing a dryer when the timer is stuck averages $150 to $300. This problem is usually caused by an issue with the dryer timer motor because this part is responsible for timing your drying sessions and instructing the dryer to turn off. If your dryer is under warranty, the cost of repairing a defective dryer timer is usually covered. Make sure you do not put off repairs for too long to ensure the timer gets fixed and the appliance works better.

Dryer Repair Prices by Brand

Many dryer brands are available. The average repair prices vary from $50 to $600, depending on the home appliance manufacturer. The most popular dryer brands are LG, Crosley, Frigidaire, Kenmore, Bosch, GE, Maytag, Samsung, Whirlpool, and Speed Queen. Brands that are most widely available and easier to service come with lower repair costs. For example, LG dryer repair costs start lower than Samsung dryer repair costs, but it all depends on the extent of the wear and tear and the complexity of the actual dryer model. To give you a better idea of how much to expect for dryer repairs, below are the average repair costs of each dryer brand.

Labor Costs to Repair a Dryer

It may be tempting to try and fix a broken dryer yourself, but it is faster, easier, and less expensive to hire a professional in most cases. Trained repair technicians are skilled professionals who know what to look for and can fix almost any problem. They also know when it is best to repair a broken part and when to replace it. If the appliance is gas-powered, having someone who knows how to handle gas lines is much safer than trying to figure it out alone.

In most cases, a dryer repair technician charges a $50 to $80 service fee to come out and diagnose the problem. Some technicians credit your account for this fee if a repair is done, but that depends on the company.

Once the problem has been uncovered, the repair cost depends on the technician’s labor charge, which is usually around $50 to $100 per hour, and the cost of the parts. It is rare for a service professional to charge a flat fee for a repair unless it is small. The average dryer repair is $150. This includes diagnosis, parts, and labor for the most common problems, such as a broken element or thermostat. Of course, the final tally depends on what needs fixing and how long the service takes. Expect to have your dryer up and running again within a few hours in most cases.

Maintenance

Most dryers are made to last 8 to 12 years, but manufacturers stress the importance of regular maintenance when making laundry appliances last. Without proper maintenance, expect more breakdowns and a shorter life expectancy. To ensure your dryer stays running, keep up with maintenance by clearing the lint trap after each use and deep cleaning the lint screen by rinsing with soap and water every three months.

Also, avoid overloading because trying to dry too many clothes with each load stresses the machine. Remember to clean the drum, wiping the inside with a microfiber cloth every few weeks to keep residue from building up. Cleaning the exhaust fan annually is a good idea because this keeps lint from building up and stressing the internal parts. Finally, check door latches and seals for wear and tear, as well as the vent cap outside. Debris can clog it, making your dryer work harder.

Dryer Repair vs Replace Cost

When a major appliance breaks, you wonder if it is time to replace it. Your home’s dryer is no exception. Most dryer repairs cost around $150, so it may be time to consider replacing it if the repair costs more. To help you make this important decision, there are a few factors to consider, including the age of the appliance. Most dryers are designed to last 8 to 12 years, although many models remain in good working order for 15 years or more when well maintained. If your dryer is at least 10 years old, replacing it likely makes more sense than repairs. Even if it has not had any problems in the past, it probably will not be long until you need a replacement anyway.

Also, think about the appliance’s condition and how hard you use your dryer. If you have a big family and the dryer runs every day, replacing it when it breaks may make more sense. If your appliance is not used much and the repair is simple and inexpensive, it probably has more life and can be salvaged, at least for now. Additionally, if any appliance is still under warranty, it should be fixed because you do not have to pay for the repair.

You can look at the 50% rule, too. Is your dryer at least 50% through its lifespan? Does the repair cost 50% of the price of a new one? If so, then it is time to replace it. If you want an upgrade and have been eyeing newer models before your dryer breaks, use this opportunity to buy the one you want. Keep in mind that buying a new dryer costs between $600 and $1,500, compared to $100 to $200 for repairs. When trying to figure out whether to repair or replace your broken dryer, compare the cost of both and consider the condition of your current dryer to see which makes the most financial sense.

Additional Considerations and Costs

• Replacement parts. Locating parts for newer dryer models is relatively easy, but it may be more difficult to find what you need when working on older models. This can drive up costs, especially if the appliance is more than 20 years old and replacement parts are scarce. The good news is that refurbished parts can be cheaper and easier to find for older appliances.
• Dryer warranty. Check to see if your dryer is under warranty. Before you call a repairman, check to ensure your dryer is not covered under a manufacturer or home warranty. If the dryer is less than 3 years old, it may be covered under its original manufacturer warranty. Check your owner’s manual or sales receipt for specific information. In most cases, the entire repair is free, but some warranties require the homeowner to pay for the parts not covered.
• Home warranty. If you have a home warranty, check your service contract to see if dryer repair is included. If it is, you likely have to pay a minimal service charge as outlined in the contract. This charge is usually about $100, but you do not have to pay to repair or replace the dryer. Call the number on your warranty contract to schedule a repair appointment.
• Choosing the professional. Ensure your service provider can handle the job. Not every appliance repair technician has the knowledge or skills to handle every appliance. Discuss the appliance’s brand, make, and model, and ensure the professional is trained to diagnose and repair it. Ask if they have common parts on hand or if all must be ordered because this could cause a delay.
• Permits and licenses. When estimating the dryer repair costs, the technician will inform you if any special permits or licenses are needed. Unless the dryer repairman is dealing with gas or electric lines, no special permits should be needed. However, many municipalities require service agents to obtain working permits for their jurisdiction. Check with your zoning or building office for specific rules and regulations.
• DIY. Those who are handy may be able to fix a small dryer problem, but in most cases, it takes a skilled professional trained to detect problems and fix them to get to the root of the problem and repair the appliance quickly and efficiently.