Dryer Repair Cost: Complete Breakdown by Issue

Dryer Repair Cost: Complete Breakdown by Issue

Your dryer is one of the most heavily used appliances in your home, running hundreds of cycles per year. When it stops working, you need to know what the repair will cost before committing. In 2026, dryer repairs typically range from $100 to $450, with the national average hovering around $250.

Average Dryer Repair Costs by Problem

Here is a comprehensive breakdown of common dryer repairs and their costs:

• Thermal fuse replacement: $80–$175. The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts the dryer off if it overheats. A blown thermal fuse is the most common reason a dryer stops producing heat. The part costs $5–$20, but labor to access and replace it accounts for most of the cost.
• Heating element (electric dryers): $150–$350. The heating element generates heat in electric dryers. Over time, the coils can break, resulting in no heat. This is the most common repair for electric dryers.
• Gas valve solenoid (gas dryers): $150–$300. Gas dryers use solenoid valves to control gas flow to the burner. When these fail, the dryer tumbles but produces no heat.
• Drum rollers: $150–$300. Drum rollers support the drum as it turns. Worn rollers cause a loud thumping or squealing noise. Most technicians recommend replacing all rollers at once.
• Belt replacement: $100–$200. The drive belt wraps around the drum and connects to the motor. A broken belt means the drum will not turn at all. This is one of the most common and affordable dryer repairs.
• Idler pulley: $100–$200. The idler pulley maintains tension on the drive belt. A worn pulley causes a squealing or squeaking noise during operation.
• Motor replacement: $200–$450. The drive motor turns the drum and powers the blower wheel. Motor failure is a major repair, and the cost may approach the point where replacement is more practical.
• Igniter (gas dryers): $150–$275. The igniter lights the gas burner. A cracked or burned-out igniter prevents the dryer from heating.
• Door switch: $80–$175. The dryer will not start if the door switch does not detect a closed door. This is a quick, affordable repair.
• Timer or control board: $175–$400. These components manage the dryer's cycle settings. Failure can cause the dryer to not start, run continuously, or stop mid-cycle.
• Vent cleaning: $80–$150. While not technically a repair, professional dryer vent cleaning is critical for performance and fire safety. Clogged vents cause overheating, longer drying times, and are a leading cause of house fires.

Gas Dryer vs Electric Dryer Repair Costs

The type of dryer you own affects repair costs in important ways.

Electric Dryers

Electric dryers are generally simpler and cheaper to repair. They have fewer components than gas dryers and do not require the specialized gas-related parts. Common electric dryer repairs average $125–$350.

Key electric-only components:

• Heating element ($150–$350)
• High-limit thermostat ($80–$175)
• Thermal cut-off ($80–$175)

Gas Dryers

Gas dryers have additional components related to the gas combustion system, which can add complexity and cost. Gas dryer repairs average $150–$400. Additionally, gas dryer repairs should only be performed by qualified technicians due to the risk of gas leaks.

Key gas-only components:

• Gas valve solenoid coils ($150–$300)
• Igniter ($150–$275)
• Flame sensor ($100–$200)

Warning Signs Your Dryer Needs Repair

Catch problems early to avoid bigger, more expensive repairs:

• Clothes taking multiple cycles to dry: The most common symptom. Usually caused by a clogged vent, failed heating element, or faulty thermostat.
• No heat: Could be the heating element (electric), igniter or gas valve (gas), thermal fuse, or thermostat.
• Drum not turning: A broken belt, failed motor, or worn drum rollers.
• Loud noises: Thumping (drum rollers), squealing (belt or idler pulley), or scraping (drum glides).
• Burning smell: This is urgent. Could indicate a lint buildup near the heating element, a worn belt, or a failing motor. Stop using the dryer immediately and call a technician.
• Dryer shuts off mid-cycle: Often a thermal fuse or airflow issue. The dryer is overheating and shutting down for safety.
• Excessive heat: The opposite problem — a faulty thermostat or cycling switch may cause the dryer to overheat, damaging clothes.

The Hidden Danger: Dryer Vent Fires

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, dryers cause approximately 2,900 house fires each year, resulting in deaths, injuries, and millions of dollars in property damage. The leading cause is failure to clean the dryer vent.

Professional dryer vent cleaning costs $80–$150 and should be done annually. Signs you need vent cleaning include:

• Clothes take longer than one cycle to dry
• The dryer is very hot to the touch during operation
• You notice a burning smell during use
• The laundry room feels unusually warm or humid
• It has been more than one year since the last cleaning

Cost Factors to Consider

Several variables affect your total dryer repair bill:

• Brand: Premium brands like Miele and Bosch cost more to service. Samsung and LG are moderately priced. Whirlpool, Maytag, and GE are the most affordable.
• Stacked units: Stacked washer-dryer combos require extra labor to access the dryer, adding $50–$100 to the repair cost.
• Parts availability: Common parts for popular brands are usually in stock. Specialty parts may need to be ordered, adding wait time.
• Age of the dryer: A dryer's average lifespan is 10–13 years. Major repairs on units over 10 years old are often not cost-effective.

DIY Dryer Repairs: What Is Safe

Some dryer maintenance tasks are safe for homeowners:

• Clean the lint trap after every load
• Vacuum behind the dryer to remove lint buildup
• Check the vent hose for kinks or disconnections
• Level the dryer to reduce vibration
• Replace a broken belt (with experience and proper tools)

Never attempt to repair gas lines, replace electrical components while plugged in, or service sealed motor components without proper training.

How to Choose the Right Dryer Repair Company

Not all repair companies are equal. Here is what to look for when choosing a dryer repair service:

• Licensing and insurance: Verify the company is licensed in your state and carries liability insurance.
• Gas certification: For gas dryer repairs, ensure the technician has the appropriate gas work certification.
• Upfront pricing: Reputable companies provide a written quote before starting work. Avoid companies that give vague estimates.
• Warranty on repairs: Look for at least a 90-day warranty on parts and labor.
• OEM parts: Ask whether the company uses original equipment manufacturer parts or aftermarket alternatives.
• Reviews and reputation: Check Google reviews, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau for consistent positive feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to fix a dryer that won't heat? Depending on the cause, expect to pay $80–$350. A thermal fuse is the cheapest fix ($80–$175), while a heating element or gas valve solenoid costs $150–$350.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace a dryer? If your dryer is under 8 years old and the repair costs less than $300, repair is usually the better option. For older dryers or major repairs, replacement often makes more sense.

How long does a dryer repair take? Most dryer repairs take 30 to 90 minutes. Motor replacement may take up to 2 hours.

Why does my dryer take two cycles to dry clothes? The most common cause is a clogged dryer vent. Other possibilities include a failing heating element, a faulty thermostat, or an overloaded drum.

How often should I clean my dryer vent? At least once a year. If you dry more than 5 loads per week, consider cleaning every 6 months.

Understanding Dryer Error Codes

Modern dryers display diagnostic error codes that help speed up the repair process:

• Samsung: HE (heating error), dE (door error), bE (stuck button), tS (temperature sensor), dC (door open during cycle)
• LG: d80/d90/d95 (vent blockage levels), tE (thermistor error), dE (door switch), LE (motor locked)
• Whirlpool/Maytag: F1 (control board), F2 E3 (door switch), F4 E3 (exhaust temperature), F6 E2 (communication error)
• GE: E1 (thermistor open), E2 (thermistor shorted), E3 (door switch)

LG dryers are particularly helpful because they display vent blockage levels (d80, d90, d95), telling you exactly how restricted your vent is before a complete blockage occurs. This feature alone can prevent house fires.

Preventive Maintenance Schedule for Dryers

Follow this maintenance schedule to maximize dryer life and safety:

After Every Load:

• Clean the lint screen/trap
• Check the lint trap housing for visible lint buildup

Monthly:

• Vacuum behind and around the dryer
• Check the vent hose for kinks or disconnections
• Wipe down the drum interior with a damp cloth

Every 6 Months:

• Inspect the exterior vent hood for lint accumulation or obstructions
• Clean the lint screen with warm soapy water to remove dryer sheet residue
• Verify the vent hose connections are tight and sealed

Annually:

• Schedule professional dryer vent cleaning ($80–$150)
• Inspect the power cord for damage or wear
• Check the leveling — an unlevel dryer causes excessive vibration and bearing wear
• Gas dryers: inspect the gas connection for smell or visible wear

Schedule Your Dryer Repair with EasyBear

Do not let a broken dryer disrupt your routine or put your home at risk. EasyBear provides fast, professional dryer repair for both gas and electric models. Our technicians are factory-trained, carry common parts, and offer same-day service in the Bay Area.

Book online now for transparent pricing, a 90-day repair warranty, and no hidden fees. Your clothes — and your safety — are in good hands with EasyBear.