Best Dryers 2026
Ensure you buy the correct fuel type (gas vs. electric), as they use entirely different hookups. Look for moisture sensors, which prevent over-drying and save energy.
Updated Apr 8, 2026
Ensure you buy the correct fuel type (gas vs. electric), as they use entirely different hookups. Look for moisture sensors, which prevent over-drying and save energy.
Updated Apr 8, 2026
Whirlpool
3.4 cu. ft. 120-Volt White Compact Electric Vented Dryer with Flexible Installation
LDR3822PQ
$809
Average lifespan
A typical dryer lasts 10 to 13 years with proper maintenance. Gas dryers tend to last slightly longer than electric models. Signs of end-of-life include clothes taking multiple cycles to dry, excessive heat on the exterior, unusual banging or squealing noises, and a burning smell during operation.
Error: dF / dE / F30 (Door Switch Failure)
The dryer does not start because it cannot detect that the door is closed. The door switch may be faulty or the door latch/strike may be misaligned. Listen for a click when closing the door. If no click, the switch mechanism needs replacement.
Error: d80 / d90 / d95 (Vent Restriction)
The dryer has detected restricted exhaust airflow. The number indicates the percentage of blockage. This is a fire safety warning. Disconnect the exhaust hose and clean the entire vent run. Use a dryer vent brush kit. The exterior vent hood flap should move freely. Schedule annual professional vent cleaning.
Long drying times
If clothes consistently take more than one cycle to dry, the most common cause is a clogged vent duct, not a faulty heating element. Check that the lint trap is clean, the vent hose is not kinked, and air flows freely from the exterior vent cap. Also verify the moisture sensor bars inside the drum are clean.
Error: dE / AF / F01 (No Heat)
The dryer runs but does not produce heat. For electric dryers, the heating element or thermal fuse may have failed. For gas dryers, the gas valve solenoid or igniter may be faulty. Check that the circuit breaker has not tripped (electric dryers need both legs of a 240V circuit). Clean the lint trap and check the exhaust vent for blockages.
Error: E4 / tS / F23 (Overheating)
The dryer is overheating and may shut down to prevent fire. This is almost always caused by restricted airflow from a clogged lint trap, crushed exhaust hose, or blocked exterior vent. Clean the entire vent path from the lint trap to the outside vent hood. This is a fire safety issue that requires immediate attention.
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Common Failure Modes
Most failures are mechanical: snapped drive belts, worn drum rollers, or burned-out heating elements. Restricted airflow from clogged vents is the number one cause of thermal fuse and element failure.
Ensure you buy the correct fuel type (gas vs. electric), as they use entirely different hookups. Look for moisture sensors, which prevent over-drying and save energy.
A typical dryer lasts 10 to 13 years with proper maintenance. Gas dryers tend to last slightly longer than electric models. Signs of end-of-life include clothes taking multiple cycles to dry, excessive heat on the exterior, unusual banging or squealing noises, and a burning smell during operation.
Top-rated dryers brands include Samsung, Maytag, GE, LG, Whirlpool and more. Covala Shopping tracks 312 dryers from 26+ brands.
Electric dryers are heavy energy users, relying on brute-force resistive heating. Heat pump dryers drastically cut energy use but require longer drying times.
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