Tumble Dryer Repair Cost-Benefit Calculator
Use this calculator to determine if repairing your tumble dryer is more cost-effective than replacing it. Enter the details below:
Recommendation
Tip: According to our guide, repair is generally recommended if the repair cost is less than half the replacement cost AND the dryer is less than 8 years old.
Quick Takeaways
• If the repair bill is under tumble dryer repair cost $250 and the dryer is less than eight years old, fixing it usually makes sense.
• Major faults like a faulty drum belt or heating element can be repaired for $80‑$150. Replacing the whole unit runs $600‑$1,200.
• Energy‑efficient models (A+or higher) save about 15‑20% on electricity, which can offset a higher upfront price over five years.
• DIY fixes are OK for simple lint‑related problems; electrical or motor issues should be left to a qualified technician.
• Factor in environmental impact - repairing avoids roughly 200kg CO₂ per dryer compared with buying new.
What Exactly Is a Tumble Dryer?
Tumble dryer is a household appliance that removes moisture from laundry by rotating a drum while hot air is forced through the clothes. It typically consumes 2‑4kWh per load and has a service life of 10‑12years when maintained properly.
Common Faults That Trigger Repair Calls
Understanding the symptom helps you gauge repair difficulty and cost. The most frequent problems are:
- Drum not turning - often a broken belt or worn motor brushes.
- No heat - heating element or thermostat failure.
- Excessive noise - worn bearings or loose drum rollers.
- Long drying times - clogged vent, failed moisture sensor, or low‑efficiency pump.
- Error codes on the display - usually a control board issue.
These issues differ in parts cost and labour time. A broken belt costs $20‑$35 in parts and about 30minutes to replace, while a control board can be $150‑$250 plus an hour of work.
How to Estimate Repair Costs in Australia
Three factors drive the final quote:
- Parts price - varies by brand and model; a heating element averages $80, a drum motor $120.
- Labour rate - most Perth technicians charge $80‑$100 per hour.
- Travel surcharge - common for suburbs outside the city centre, typically $20‑$30.
Ask the technician for a written estimate that breaks down these components. Many local repair shops will also give a “no‑fix, no‑fee” guarantee if the fault turns out to be unrepairable.
Replacement Costs: What to Expect
A new dryer’s price depends on capacity, energy rating, and brand. Below is a snapshot of the Australian market in 2025:
| Type | Capacity | Energy Rating | Average Price (AUD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic condenser | 7kg | C | $600‑$750 |
| Heat‑pump (A+) | 8kg | A+ | $900‑$1,200 |
| Professional vented | 9kg | B | $800‑$1,000 |
Installation fees add $80‑$120 if a new vent or power outlet is needed.
Cost‑Benefit Calculator
Use this simple formula to decide:
If (Repair Cost < 0.5 × Replacement Cost) AND (Dryer Age ≤ 8years) THEN Repair. Otherwise, Replace.
Example: Your dryer is 6years old, repair estimate $180, replacement $1,000. 180<0.5×1,000 (=$500) → Repair is the cheaper choice.
Energy Efficiency & Environmental Impact
Older dryers (pre‑2015) consume up to 30% more electricity than newer heat‑pump models. According to the Australian Government’s Department of Industry, a typical 8kg heat‑pump dryer saves about 400kWh per year, equivalent to €150 (≈$220) in avoided electricity bills.
From a carbon perspective, manufacturing a new dryer emits roughly 200kg CO₂, while repairing one avoids that footprint. If the repair restores the dryer’s efficiency to within 10% of a new model, the environmental payoff is immediate.
DIY vs Professional Repair
Simple tasks such as cleaning the lint filter, clearing the vent, or replacing a belt can be done with a basic tool kit. DIY guide includes step‑by‑step safety checks, required tools, and typical part numbers.
However, when dealing with:
- Electrical components (heating element, control board)
- Motor or drum bearing replacements
- Complex error‑code diagnostics
call a licensed technician. In Australia, only qualified electricians can work on high‑voltage appliances, and doing it yourself could void the warranty or breach Australian Consumer Law.
Decision Checklist
- Age of dryer - under 8years?
- Estimated repair cost - less than 50% of replacement?
- Energy rating - will a new unit offer >15% savings?
- Availability of spare parts - common brands have better parts support.
- Environmental priority - prefer repair if carbon impact matters.
If you tick most boxes, repair is the sensible route. Otherwise, start budgeting for a replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a typical tumble dryer repair cost in Perth?
Most common repairs - belt, heating element, or sensor - fall between $80 and $250, including labour and travel surcharge.
When should I replace my dryer instead of repairing it?
If the repair estimate exceeds half the price of a comparable new dryer, or if the appliance is older than eight years and showing multiple failures, replacement is usually more cost‑effective.
Are heat‑pump dryers worth the extra upfront cost?
Yes, they consume up to 30% less electricity. Over a five‑year period the energy savings typically offset the $300‑$400 price premium.
Can I safely replace a dryer belt myself?
Replacing a belt is a straightforward DIY job for most models. Disconnect the dryer from power, remove the drum, slip the new belt onto the motor pulley and drum, then re‑assemble.
What are the environmental benefits of repairing a dryer?
Repair avoids manufacturing emissions of roughly 200kg CO₂ per unit and reduces landfill waste. It also extends the life of existing materials, lowering overall resource consumption.