How Long Does a Dryer Last?

Short answerA clothes dryer lasts about 13 to 14 years on average. NAHB's 2007 study lists 13 years for both gas and electric dryers, and the Department of Energy estimates an average of 14 years. A dryer that stops heating isn't always worn out, because the cause may be a part that can be repaired.

What this costs

Our national estimates, not quotes.
Option	Job	Low	High
Repair	Appliance Repair	$90	$460

Why two different numbers

The U.S. Department of Energy, in its appliance efficiency rulemaking, estimates an average clothes dryer lifetime of 14 years. NAHB's 2007 study lists 13 years, and says its appliance figures are based on first-owner use. People often replace appliances before they wear out, because styles and features change, so a shorter number doesn't mean the machine had failed.

Gas vs. electric

NAHB lists gas and electric dryers at the same 13 years. DOE's 14-year average covers consumer clothes dryers as a group, so these sources don't support choosing one fuel type based on lifespan.

Efficiency if you do replace it

ENERGY STAR says certified electric dryers are about 20% more energy efficient than standard models, and certified gas dryers about 18%. It says heat pump dryers use around 70% less energy than conventional dryers.

Dryer Not Heating? Safe Checks Before You Call

Common questions

Is it normal for a dryer to last 20 years?

It is well past both averages, though no source here sets a maximum. See the next step if it starts failing: our repair-or-replace page for dryers.

Why did my dryer stop heating?

See our guide on a dryer that won't heat for what to check.