10 Year Old Dryer – What to Expect

If your dryer has been chugging along for a decade, you might be asking yourself if it’s still worth keeping. The good news is most dryers are built to run 10‑12 years with proper care. The bad news is wear and tear adds up, and some parts start to fail after a few years. Below we break down what a 10‑year‑old dryer usually looks like, the warning signs to watch for, and how to decide whether to call a tech or buy a new machine.

Common Signs Your Dryer Is Near the End

Not every issue means the dryer is done, but a pattern of problems often points to a larger failure. Look out for these clues:

• Longer drying times: If clothes stay damp after a full cycle, the heating element or thermostat may be losing power.
• Strange noises: Squeaking, thumping, or rattling can mean worn bearings, a broken belt, or a loose drum.
• Heat that’s too hot or not hot enough: Overheating can be a fire risk, while a cold dryer wastes energy.
• Frequent error codes: Modern dryers display codes when sensors fail. Repeating codes suggest a component is on its last legs.
• Excessive lint buildup: If the lint filter fills up fast or the vent smells burnt, the airflow is restricted and the motor works harder.

When you see one of these symptoms, take a quick look inside the lint trap and vent. A simple clean can solve a lot, but if the problem persists, it’s time to think about repair.

Repair or Replace? How to Choose

Repair costs for a dryer usually range from £50 to £150, depending on the part. A new dryer costs £300‑£600 for a decent model. Use this rule of thumb: if the repair bill is more than half the price of a new dryer, replace it.

Consider these factors too:

• Energy efficiency: Newer dryers use less electricity. Switching can lower your bills and your carbon footprint.
• Availability of parts: Older models may have hard‑to‑find parts, which can drive up repair time and cost.
• Frequency of breakdowns: If the dryer has needed several fixes in the past year, it’s a sign the whole system is aging.

If you decide to repair, focus on high‑impact parts first: heating element, thermostat, drum belt, and motor. A qualified technician can test these quickly and give you a clear quote.

Simple Maintenance to Extend Life

Even a ten‑year‑old dryer can last a few more years with a bit of love. Here are easy habits that make a big difference:

• Clean the lint filter after every load. A blocked filter forces the dryer to work harder.
• Check the vent hose quarterly. Remove lint and make sure the hose isn’t kinked.
• Wipe the drum and door seal with a damp cloth to prevent buildup that can cause odors.
• Leave the door ajar for an hour after a load to let moisture escape and avoid mold.
• Schedule a professional cleaning once a year. A tech can clear hidden lint and inspect the motor.

These steps keep airflow strong and reduce wear on the motor and heating parts, giving you more drying cycles before a major repair is needed.

Bottom line: a 10‑year‑old dryer isn’t automatically out of service, but it’s at the point where you should weigh repair costs against a newer, more efficient model. Keep an eye on drying time, noises, and heat levels, and give the lint filter a clean each time. When in doubt, a quick call to a local repair service can save you money and give you peace of mind.