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How Long Do Whirlpool Electric Dryers Last?

by East Coast Appliance

Laundry Room Featuring a Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

At a Glance

Ways to Extend the Life of Your Dryer

Common Problems Whirlpool Dryers Encounter

Signs it’s time to Replace Your Whirlpool Electric Dryer

Top Whirlpool Electric Dryer Picks

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust East Coast Appliance?

Whirlpool stands as a leading appliance brand across the United States, boasting over a century of experience in crafting laundry units and various kitchen products.

Its longstanding presence has made it a familiar name in many American homes, with generations growing up with and continuing to choose Whirlpool for their appliance needs. One common question that people who buy Whirlpool electric dryer models ask is “How long do they last?”

A dryer is a significant investment, and homeowners often debate whether to repair or replace their aging models. Whirlpool electric dryers, while coming from a trusted brand, are not immune to wear and tear over time. Discover the durability of these dryers and learn when it might be time to upgrade your older model.

Find Your Whirlpool Dryer

Transform your drying with a Whirlpool electric dryer. Visit East Coast Appliance for a wide range of models that offer efficiency and innovative features.

Shop Whirlpool Electric Dryers

How Long do Whirlpool Electric Dryers Last?

Most appliance manufacturers make washers and dryers that will last at least a decade. However, it’s important to be careful when choosing your appliances.

One study found that 20% of washers and 16% of dryers broke before the 10-year mark, driving consumers to buy replacement models from different brands. 

Choosing a Whirlpool electric dryer is a wise decision, given the brand's reputation for manufacturing high-quality products. With dryers typically lasting over a decade, and possibly extending to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.

Investing in a Whirlpool ensures you get excellent value for money due to the appliance's longevity, underscoring the importance of considering the dryer's lifespan in your purchase decision.

Ways to Extend the Life of Your Dryer

Once you answer, “How long do dryers last?” you can discover ways to extend the life of your current dryer. The life of a dryer depends on how you care for it and how often it's used.

While you can guarantee that your dryer will last several years, you can take steps to protect it. Here are a few things to keep in mind.

  • Clean your lint screen after every load: This will prevent lint buildup in your airways that could potentially lead to clogs.

  • Check the air vents and ducts: Make sure the hot air can escape and there aren’t any clogs, debris, or other items in their airways.

  • Clean your dryer: Wipe down the interior of your dryer to make sure sand, rocks, and other small items aren’t bounding around inside.

  • Avoid overloading your dryer: It is better to buy a large-capacity model than to expect too much from your dryer.

Many of these maintenance tips are good habits you can get into. If you clean your lint trap after every load, you never need to worry about it building up and hurting your dryer’s performance.

Common Problems Whirlpool Dryers Encounter

Laundry Room Featuring a Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

As a homeowner, facing a broken dryer involves determining the root cause of the problem and deciding whether to repair or replace the unit.

Troubleshooting is essential given the variety of ways a dryer can fail. Recognizing the signs that indicate it's time to replace your dryer can spare you stress, reduce repair expenses, and prevent the inconvenience of perpetually damp laundry. Below are key issues to be aware of.

  • Heating problems: Your dryer isn’t getting hot, which prevents your clothes from drying.

  • Motor issues: The dyer can’t complete its cycle because the motor is wearing out.

  • Electrical malfunctions: Programming the dryer is difficult because of the broken electric systems.

  • Broken sensors: Your dryer might shut off quickly because sensors are overreading the temperature.  

As dryers become more advanced, it becomes harder to repair them. Service teams need to understand how modern technology works to troubleshoot issues. This is why it is more common to replace aging appliances.

Comparison with Gas Counterparts

Whirlpool sells both electric and gas-powered dryers. However, there isn’t any difference in the design or performance of these appliances.

Your dryers should last the same amount of time regardless of whether you have a gas or electric model. If you notice your Whirlpool gas dryer not heating, it is likely the same age as when electric models wear out. 

If your home is equipped with a gas hookup, consider opting for a gas dryer. While these units can be marginally more costly, their performance is on par with other types. Alternatively, if you're contemplating a transition away from gas appliances, a Whirlpool electric clothes dryer could be a suitable choice, offering reliable efficiency and quality.

Signs it’s time to Replace Your Whirlpool Electric Dryer

There are a few warning signs that it is time to replace your Whirlpool electric dryer, even if it continues to run throughout the week. Dryers don’t always break down to the point they are unusable. Instead, you might notice a few signs you need a new dryer:

  • The dryer is getting louder or developing new noises when running.
  • The Whirlpool clothes dryer takes longer to dry clothes and doesn’t get as hot as it used to.
  • You notice your Whirlpool electric dryer not heating at all.
  • The electric elements are wearing out and the dryer takes longer to start or program.
  • The dryer stops mid-cycle.

Upon observing these indicators, you're faced with the option of repairing or replacing your dryer. If your dryer is relatively new and the cost of repair doesn't exceed half the price of a new unit, repair might be the way to go. However, for those with older electric clothes dryers, investing in a new appliance could be the more prudent choice.

→ Learn More: 5 Things You Should Never Put in Your Whirlpool Dryer  

Top Whirlpool Electric Dryer Picks

If the dryer repair cost isn’t worth it for your aging appliance, invest in a new Whirlpool electric dryer instead. You can also take home a Whirlpool gas dryer if you have a gas hook-up in your laundry space. Here are five top dryers that will elevate how you wash your clothes.  

Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

Shop Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer

This Whirlpool electric dryer proves that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to own a quality dryer. The AutoDry™ prevents overdrying so your clothes don’t wear out quickly.

The hamper-style door makes it easy to transfer clean clothes without dropping them on the floor. You will love this model.

★ Featured Whirlpool WED4950HW Review:

“I purchased this dryer that was similar to the one I had for the last 18 years. This new one works just like my last one. The old dryer was still working and was repairable, but I felt it was time for a new one and didn't want to sink money into such an old machine.”

→ Learn More: Whirlpool Electric Dryers

Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

Shop Whirlpool 7.0 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer

This dryer comes in electric and gas options. Choose from several different cycles depending on the durability of your clothes and the size of the load.

The Wrinkle Shield™ technology will prevent your clothes from developing wrinkles – even if you forget about them. The Whirlpool electric dryer will occasionally tumble your clothes to keep them from setting. 

★ Featured Whirlpool WED4850HW Review:

“I have had Whirlpool gas dryers my entire adult life. Love the features. If this one lasts as long as the others have, it will be the last one I will have to purchase.”

Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

hirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

Shop Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer

This Whirlpool electric dryer blends style with functionality. Featuring sleek digital buttons, a timer that clearly shows the cycle duration, and a spacious round door accommodating your entire laundry load, it's designed for convenience and efficiency.

As an Energy Star appliance, it operates on less electricity than expected, making its efficiency unparalleled.

★ Featured Whirlpool WHD560CHW Review:

“I researched new dryers and wanted to be as energy efficient as possible. Heat pump dryers are the way to go. This one was the least expensive and had the largest capacity.” 

Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Chrome Shadow Front Load Electric Dryer

Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Chrome Shadow Front Load Electric Dryer

Shop Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer

For households with a large family, selecting a dryer with ample capacity is crucial to meet the demands of daily laundry needs efficiently.

The electric dryer from Whirlpool is an exemplary choice, boasting a generous interior space capable of accommodating bulky items like towels, comforters, and sports uniforms all at once.

Its design not only complements modern home aesthetics but also represents a blend of functionality and style

★ Featured Whirlpool WED6620HC Review:

“The size is amazing, and it has so many options to pick from. I love how modern and sleek it looks and I've yet to run into any issues or confusion with using it.”

Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Chrome Shadow Front Load Electric Dryer

Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Chrome Shadow Front Load Electric Dryer

Shop Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer

Rounding out our list of top picks is this large-capacity model by Whirlpool. It is another chrome dryer that will improve the look of your laundry area.

The intuitive controls are easy to use so you can set the perfect cycle. The moisture sensing systems also prevent overdrying and can extend the cycle if need be.

★ Featured Whirlpool WHD862CHC Review:

“We bought this large and easy-to-use dryer a month or so ago and we're very happy! The dryer accommodates lots of laundry, it's quiet and it doesn't need a vent!”

→ Learn More: Gas vs Electric Dryer: What You Need to Know Before Switching

FAQ

here are some frequently asked questions about Whirlpool electric dryers.

How long do Whirlpool electric dryers last?

Whirlpool electric dryers last around 10 years on average. Some dryers might last up to 15 years or more if they are well cared for. Washers and dryers wear out with use, so your laundry appliances might break down faster if you have a significant laundry-producing family compared to a person who lives alone.

Is it worth fixing a 10-year-old dryer?

There are two things to factor into the debate of repairing vs. replacing appliances: the cost to repair and the depreciation of the appliance. The cost to repair the appliance could cover a large portion of the replacement costs. Plus, older appliances will keep breaking. If your dryer is close to 10 years old, it might be better for your family to put your money toward replacing the appliance

Do gas dryers last longer than electric dryers?

Gas and electric dryers both wear out at the same rate. If you buy from a trusted brand, your dryer might last 15 years. If you buy from a lower-quality brand, it will likely break before the 10-year mark. Your usage habits and natural wear and tear can also impact the speed at which your dryer ages. 

Why Trust East Coast Appliance?

Locally owned and operated since 1988, East Coast Appliance is the largest independent appliance dealer in Virginia. We sell it ALL — from new name-brand appliances to scratch-and-dent appliances to our very own refurbished appliances. Aside from our huge selection of every major brand and everyday low prices, what sets us apart from our competitors is that we service what we sell and that we are locally owned and operated with factory-trained associates. And if you’re local, great news: East Coast Appliance is committed to providing the absolute lowest prices on the same available brand and model — simply bring in the ad of the local retail competitor while the lower price is in effect and you'll receive your price match.

Shop Whirlpool Electric Dryers at East Coast 

There is a reason we are dubbed “The Discount King” — for unbeatable deals, shop dryers online at East Coast Appliance. Our friendly associates are always happy to help you find the best electric dryer for your needs, whether you call us or use our online chat feature. Better yet, stop by one of our showrooms to see why we are the best appliance store in Virginia. Visit us today!