Depending on repair needs and machine age and type, the cost to replace a heating element in a dryer can vary. Learn the average repair costs.
How Much Does Dryer Repair Cost? [2026 Data]
Appliance repair costs depend on your project and location. Check with a local pro for your specific job.
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Cost Insights:
Dryer repair costs range from $10 to $550 depending on your specific issue and parts needed.
Your dryer's age and the specific issue affect your total, with heating problems and motor failures costing more than switch replacements.
Don't forget to account for your dryer vent repair costs between $150 and $300 in your budget.
Hiring a local dryer repair professional prevents fire hazards from electrical issues and ensures your appliance functions safely for your household.
Dryer Repair Cost Factors
Photo: Andrew_Howe / istock / Getty Images
Dryer repair costs fall into two categories: parts and labor. Because they’re relatively simple devices (dryers work by using a temperature-controlled heating element to pump air into a drum that spins), many DIYers find them a good project to undertake. But before buying and swapping parts, you need to know what the exact problem is.
Type of Problem
The first step in dryer repair is determining the type of problem. While there are gas-powered dryers, this article focuses on electric dryers since the vast majority of homes use them.
| Type of Dryer Problem | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Not heating | $80–$420 |
| Not spinning | $30–$250 |
| Won’t turn on | $15–$300 |
| Shuts off quickly | $25–$300 |
| Overheating | $90–$320 |
| Loud noises | $10–$450 |
| Sparks or smells | $400–$600 |
Many homeowners won't have access to a diagnostic machine to figure out what needs repair. However, certain symptoms may point to the issue.
| Dryer Problem Symptoms | Common Causes |
|---|---|
| Not heating | Bad heating element, thermostat, or blown thermal fuse |
| Not spinning | Broken drive belt, motor malfunction, worn drum rollers |
| Won’t turn on | Bad door switch, start switch, or control board |
| Shuts off quickly | Overheating caused by a clogged vent or bad thermostat |
| Overheating | Clogged vent, malfunctioning thermostat |
| Loud noises | Faulty drum bearing, loose belt, broken motor, or loose screws |
| Sparks or Smells | Malfunctioning electrics, requires total replacement |
Replacement Part
Based on the dryer issue, you’ll likely need to replace a part. When dryer parts malfunction, it’s cost-effective to replace the part rather than try and fix it. Depending on your skill level, most if not all parts can be swapped out in less than an hour. The issue is diagnosing the right error so that you don’t buy and replace a part you don’t need.
| Dryer Part | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Thermostat | $15–$60 |
| Cycling thermostat | $15–$60 |
| Thermal fuse | $5–$18 |
| Drive belt | $14–$32 |
| Motor | $60–$150 |
| Door switch | $8–$30 |
| Start switch | $5–$40 |
| Control board | $90–$280 |
| Drum rollers | $20–$55 |
| Lint filter | $10–$35 |
| Drum bearings | $20–$60 |
Labor
Technicians may charge a $50 to $80 service fee just to visit your house, plus a rate of $50 to $100 per hour. In some cases, there might be a diagnostic fee, too. You don’t want to pay hundreds of dollars for something as simple as replacing a dryer belt. If you consider that labor costs can easily amount to 90% or more of a dryer repair, you can see why replacing simple items yourself is a smart choice.
Ventilation Work
Different models have different methods of ventilation. Depending on the issue causing your dryer malfunction, you may need to clean or swap out some of the venting behind the machine. For dryers in apartments, this usually isn’t a problem, but homes either have a dryer with a tube that connects to an exhaust vent outside, or an internal system. Those with an internal system can’t make adjustments themselves and need a pro’s help.
In most cases, you’ll pay a professional between $75 to $150 to fix a damaged dryer vent. But if the pro can’t salvage your current vent, you may need a new one. If so, replacing a dryer vent costs between $100 and $300.
Most Frequently Cited Washer and Dryer Issues
Dryer repairs are a rather common expense. Even though dryers' lifespan is 10 to 13 years on average, they might require repairs several times throughout their life, especially if they get heavy use. Based on the responses of 20,600 Angi customers, over 20% of homeowners who request service for washer or dryer repair have an appliance that doesn't run at all. Additionally, 8% of homeowners who request service say their dryer doesn't get hot enough.
Why You Should Hire a Dryer Repair Pro
You can diagnose dryer issues yourself if you’d like to learn a new skill and save some money. As we’ve mentioned, labor usually comprises 90% of a dryer repair costs, so sourcing and swapping defective parts yourself can significantly lower the average cost of a dryer repair.
The one caveat is electrical issues. When wiring isn’t installed correctly, you must hire a pro or replace the unit entirely. You don’t want to risk damage to your house or occupants due to a preventable fire. In that case, call a dryer repair specialist near you before attempting any fixes yourself.
Here’s why it’s ideal to hire a dryer repair pro
If you want peace of mind and a properly functioning appliance, a professional offers clear advantages:
Accurate diagnosis of complex issues like faulty thermostats, heating elements, or control boards
Safe handling of electrical wiring and high-voltage components that pose shock or fire risks
Access to specialized tools and genuine replacement parts that are not always available to homeowners
Faster turnaround and warranty-backed repairs that lessen the chance of repeat breakdowns
Knowledge of manufacturer specifications and recall notices that DIY fixes may overlook
If you want to DIY dryer repair
For homeowners comfortable with small fixes, some basic tasks are achievable without a technician:
Clean lint traps, ducts, and vents to improve airflow and efficiency
Replace simple parts like knobs, belts, or fuses with proper guidance
Check and reset circuit breakers or fuses if the dryer has lost power
Test and replace easily accessible components like door switches or sensors (with proper instructions)
Pro Tip
When it comes to appliances, you have to consider the extent of the issue. If it is minor problems or something that simply requires maintenance, then it might be more cost-effective to do a repair. If the failure is a major component of the appliance, then it will likely be easier and more affordable in the long run to just replace it and get peace of mind.
Tips to Reduce Cost While Repairing a Dryer
The best way to save money while repairing a dryer is to do the work yourself. This will significantly lower the total repair cost, but there are some other ways to shrink the bottom line, which are:
Use discount codes where available.
Borrow tools.
Buy parts online instead of in-store.
Harness online DIY video tutorials.
Maintain your machine regularly.
Consider replacing a problematic unit with one on sale, or a lightly used one.
Next Steps: Finalize Your Project With a Pro
Ask the technician to explain the root cause of the issue, e.g., heating element, motor, or control board.
Confirm if they use manufacturer-approved replacement parts and whether those parts come with a warranty.
Discuss the estimated repair timeline, costs, and whether repair is more economical than replacement.
Request advice on preventive maintenance, such as vent-cleaning schedules or electrical checks, to extend the dryer’s lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Appliance repairs reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.3★ avg. • 49 total reviews
- Julio V.
Positive experience. As previously stated, the replacement/repair could not be completed (no fault of the plumbing tech) b/c misinformation was rec?d by property management maintenance. Thanks to the plumbing tech for your efforts. Appreciate you!
The Waterworks - Brent C.
Carpet repair done well. Scheduling was easy. Showed up on time.
BR Flooring Installation - Mike Z.
As usual with ECO, tech Jordan was outstanding, very professional, very knowledgeable, and very thorough with repairs made to tankless water heaters. Very highly recommend ECO!!!
Eco Plumbers, Electricians, and HVAC Technicians - Austin Y.
I would recommend this company to anyone! He showed up on time, was friendly, completed a very difficult repair on our dryer vent cover, was responsive, and pricing was extremely fair and competitive. I would have him back to do any of our repairs or cleanings without hesitation!
U.S.A. Dryer Vent, LLC - Micki B.
Everything from initial contact to completion was absolutely top notch. We contacted the business during off hours to leave a message, and the owner still reached out to feel out the issue within minutes. We were scheduled and repaired within 48 hours. I cannot say enough about the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Donald L.
Ace Fireplace Services came to the rescue for my chimney repair. They were quick to pinpoint the issue and worked their magic to fix it. My chimney is now in excellent shape, and I'm a satisfied customer.
Ace Fireplace Services - Lisa S.
On Sunday 2/26 I requested quotes via Angi from 4 refrigerator repair businesses. Northwest Appliance responded to me Monday morning (2/27) and my refrigerator was repaired by noon the same day. Great communication, they did everything they said they would. The technician had the parts on...
- Aaron M.
Excellent! We were very satisfied with the service provided and the entire experience from start to finish. Very friendly and professional staff. I was able to instantly get in contact with them for a quote and the response time and overall communication remained quick and easy throughout the...
Prime Cleaning Service - Michael H.
Description says they handle window repair including rotten hardwood - they called me back right away but didnâ t leave a voicemail. I followed up 3 days later and they said they donâ t do that kind of work.
Window-Gurus - Evan O.
I needed reliable, affordable help the day of with moving a couple of appliances and misc items. It was a relief to hear back from Tanzillo almost instantly that morning so I could stop looking and move on to plan and prepare. Every part of the move was friendly and professional. Next time I...
Tanzillo Concrete & Landscape
The homeowners guide to appliance repairs
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