When should you replace your dryer?

How long does a dryer last?

A dryer typically lasts between 10 and 15 years, but it depends on the type and price. Budget models under €500 often only last 5 to 10 years. More expensive dryers can reach 10 to 15 years. How long yours lasts also depends on how often you use it and how well you maintain it.

Using it multiple times a week? You're looking at the lower end of that range. Use it less often and clean the lint filter after every cycle? You'll easily get more years out of it.

5 signs your dryer needs replacing

Sometimes it's obvious: the dryer breaks down and simply stops working. But more often, you just get used to it. The cycle takes longer, the laundry comes out a bit damp, but you run it again anyway. Until you realise that's been going on for a while. Recognise any of the signs below? It might be time to think about replacing it.

1. It's not drying properly anymore

You pull out the laundry and it's still damp. Or you have to run the dryer twice for one load. If that keeps happening and the lint filter is clean, it's likely a problem with the heating element or heat pump.

2. Drying time has gone up significantly

A cycle that used to take 45 minutes now takes an hour and a half. That's not normal. It means your dryer is working harder to get the same result, and you'll notice it on your energy bill too.

3. It's making noise or vibrating more than usual

A gentle hum is normal. Banging, squeaking or grinding isn't. That points to wear on the drum belt, bearings or another part. Sometimes it can be repaired, but on an older dryer it's often not worth it.

4. Your energy bill has gone up

Dryers are known energy guzzlers. But if your bill is going up without any change in how much you wash or dry, your dryer may have become less efficient. Older models without an A rating can use a lot more energy compared to modern heat pump dryers.

5. Repairs keep adding up

One repair: fine. But if you've had a technician out two or three times in the last few years, and something's gone wrong again, you're putting money into an appliance that won't last much longer. At some point, patching it up is just throwing money away.

Repair or replace: how do you decide?

A useful rule of thumb: if the repair costs more than 50% of what a new dryer would cost, replacing is the smarter choice. Especially if your dryer is already more than 8 years old.

Is it newer and was it a one-off issue? Then repairing might still make sense. But if you're dealing with an older dryer, recurring problems and a hefty repair bill? Then the answer is pretty clear.

What are your options when your dryer needs replacing?

You've got a few options. Which one fits best depends on what you're looking for: certainty, low upfront costs or just as little hassle as possible.

Buy a new dryer

A new dryer gives you certainty. You know what you're getting, modern models are much more energy-efficient than appliances from 10 years ago, and you'll usually have a warranty. The downside: the price can easily run from €400 to €900, depending on the type. That's a significant expense, especially if you weren't expecting it.

Buy a second-hand dryer

You can find a much cheaper option on Marktplaats or Facebook Marketplace. The risk is that you don't know much about the condition of the appliance or its history. There's usually no warranty, and if it stops working a few months later, you'll end up spending more in the long run.

Rent a dryer from Homie

Don't want a big upfront purchase and no hassle if something breaks? Then renting a dryer is a solid option. At Homie, you pay a fixed monthly fee for an energy-efficient heat pump dryer, starting from just €12.99 per month. Maintenance and repairs are included. If something goes wrong, Homie sorts it out. No need to find a technician yourself, and no unexpected costs.

Your subscription starts from just 6 months, so you're not locked in for years if your situation changes.

Check out the range and choose the plan that works for you: rent a dryer from Homie.