How Much Does Dryer Repair Cost?

Dryer Heating Element Cost

For the cost of parts and labor, you should budget at least $170 to $280 for a new heating element. An appliance technician typically charges between $80 and $100 per hour for labor.

This cost also includes a one-time service fee. Most technicians’ service fees span from $50 to $80.

How Much Does a Heating Element Cost for a Dryer?

A new heating element is usually between $40 and $100. This part might cost as low as $30 and as high as $200 or more, depending on the type of dryer.

Dryer Motor Replacement Cost

With labor, you could pay anywhere from $190 to $330 for a new motor. If your project takes longer or if the technician needs to drive a further distance, you could pay $270 to $430. This price also includes the $50 to $80 service fee.

If your motor is the issue, it’s best to contact a dryer repair company near you to get an estimate. Projects leaning towards $400 or more might mean it’s best to replace this appliance instead of repairing it.

How Much Does a Dryer Motor Cost?

The cost for a replacement motor depends on the dryer brand and age. Expect to pay $150 for a motor if your dryer is newer and still in production.

Finding a motor that’s no longer produced in factories could cost about $60. However, if the part is impossible to locate, you’ll likely need to buy a new appliance.

Dryer Belt Replacement Cost

Plan on paying an appliance technician anywhere from $140 to $200 to replace a belt. Projects taking more than an hour could cost upwards of $400.

How Much Is a Dryer Belt?

A dryer belt is between $10 and $20.

Other Costs to Fix a Dryer

Gas vs. Electric Dryer Repair Cost

Just as the price of a gas dryer is $50 to $150 more than an electric one, repairing gas dryers costs more as well. These appliances are less common than their electric counterparts and, as such, are harder to find parts for.

If you have a gas clothes dryer that needs repairing, get an estimate from a gas appliance repair specialist near you.

Dryer Repair Service Cost

Most appliance technicians charge an hourly rate of $80 to $100 per hour. You might also have to pay a service charge of $50 to $80. However, a technician might waive this fee if you repair with them, especially if they can diagnose the problem and make the repair all at once.

Some technicians offer flat rate fees for certain repairs. Before scheduling a repair, make sure you ask your technician how they charge and what you should expect to pay.

DIY vs. Hire a Professional to Fix a Dryer

While prices might seem high for dryer repairs, professional technicians can make most repairs in under an hour. Appliance technicians also are more likely to have the parts on hand. It’s faster and more efficient to work with a professional.

It’s also important to check if your dryer is still under warranty. If it is and something breaks, you should call the appliance company to get the costs covered. Fixing it yourself will void the warranty.

FAQs

Is it worth repairing a dryer?

Dryer repairs are worth it if the appliance is less than 4 years old and the cost is less than $400. For older dryers and/or costly repairs, replacing your appliance is more cost effective.

How many years does a dryer last?

Dryers have a lifespan of 8 to 12 years. Your dryer will last longer if you schedule annual or every other year services.

What causes a heating element to burn out in a dryer?

Heating elements burn out if they get too hot. A lack of airflow or power surge is usually what causes the temperature to rise.

What happens if a dryer belt breaks?

The belt connects the drum (the part of the dryer where you load your clothes that circles around) to a motor. If the belt breaks, this drum no longer will turn around and clothes won’t properly dry.