Washers and Dryers Fail at the Same Rate All 12 Months

Laundry is one household responsibility that rarely takes a seasonal break. Your washing machine and dryer handle regular loads throughout the year, regardless of the weather or holiday calendar. Yet many homeowners still think about appliance protection when breakdowns become more likely.

Select Home Warranty’s claims data show clothes dryer claims vary by just 1.07x between January and May. Similarly, clothes washer claims show only a 1.11x variation between January and November. Across the year, laundry appliances have a coefficient of variation of just 2.4%.

In simple terms, this means there is no “safe” month to postpone a decision about your washer or dryer coverage. A home warranty provider sees laundry claims arrive steadily because these appliances are used often, regardless of weather or calendar. Understanding this pattern can help you make better decisions about household maintenance, budgeting, and appliance coverage.

Why Do Washers and Dryers Break Down Throughout the Year?

Unlike certain household appliances, laundry equipment does not show significant seasonal changes in repair activity. Our claims data indicates that washers and dryers experience breakdowns at nearly constant rates throughout the year.

Here is what the numbers reveal:

These figures highlight an important distinction. Laundry appliances do not follow the same seasonal patterns that homeowners might associate with other household systems.

But why does this happen? Let’s check the reasons:

1. Daily Use Keeps Demand Constant

Your laundry routine rarely depends on the season. Work clothes, school uniforms, towels, bedding, and everyday clothing need regular washing throughout the year. A household might run several loads weekly during summer and winter alike. This continued usage exposes appliance components to regular mechanical wear.

Based on our claims team’s experience, commonly affected components include:

• Washer motors and drive belts that support regular drum movement.
• Drain pumps responsible for removing wastewater after wash cycles.
• Door seals and hoses that manage water containment.
• Dryer heating elements and thermostats that regulate drying temperatures.
• Drum rollers and belts that support consistent dryer operation.
• Dryer timer and control components that manage cycle length and operation.

These components experience wear through repeated operation, not simply because a particular month arrives.

2. Mechanical Wear Does Not Follow a Seasonal Calendar

Your washing machine does not wait for winter to develop a drainage problem. Similarly, a dryer can experience heating issues during an otherwise pleasant summer. The factors below help explain why breakdowns can still happen any month, irrespective of the season.

• Appliance age and overall condition.
• Frequency of operation and load sizes.
• Installation quality and electrical connections.
• Previous repairs and maintenance history.
• Manufacturer specifications and component durability.

3. Small Performance Changes Can Signal Bigger Problems

Not every appliance failure happens suddenly. Sometimes, your washer or dryer shows warning signs before stopping completely.
Watch for these changes:

• Clothes coming out unusually wet after a completed wash cycle.
• Drying cycles take considerably longer than usual.
• Unusual banging, grinding, or rattling sounds.
• Persistent leaks from the bottom and water collecting around the washing machine.
• Repeated interruptions or error messages during operation.

When you notice these warning signs, it is worth getting your appliance checked before the problem gets worse. Avoid attempting electrical or complex mechanical repairs yourself, as this can make your home warranty contract void.

Further, if your washer or dryer keeps showing signs of trouble, you may also want to consider whether repair or replacement makes more sense. Our guide to four signs it may be time to replace your washer and dryer can help you understand what to look for.

Why Should You Consider Laundry Appliance Coverage Throughout the Year?

Washer and dryer coverage is worth considering throughout the year because laundry appliances can break down during any month. Our claims data shows minimal seasonal variation, reinforcing the need to consider year-round appliance protection. A laundry appliance warranty can help manage eligible repair or replacement expenses when covered mechanical or electrical breakdowns occur.

At Select Home Warranty, both clothes washers and dryers are included in our two available appliance coverage options: Bronze Care and Platinum Care.

Apart from comparing our home warranty appliance plans, review the applicable agreement carefully and check service fees, coverage limits, and exclusions. Checking these details beforehand can help you understand your coverage and avoid confusion when submitting a claim.

Further, for more practical home maintenance advice, appliance care tips, and warranty updates, follow Select Home Warranty on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the average lifespan of a washing machine and clothes dryer?

Most washing machines last approximately 10–12 years, while many clothes dryers last around 12–15 years. Actual lifespan depends on usage, maintenance, installation, and component quality.

2. Should I repair or replace an older washer or dryer?

Consider replacing your washer or dryer if the repair cost (plus the labor cost) is less than 50% of a new appliance’s price. A qualified technician can assess its condition and help you decide whether repair or replacement makes better financial sense.

3. Does a home warranty cover both washing machines and dryers?.

Yes, home warranty coverage plans include clothes washer and clothes dryer repairs.

4. Can I file a home warranty claim immediately after purchasing coverage?.

No, most home warranty companies require a 30-day waiting period before homeowners can submit claims. This period ensures coverage applies to eligible issues that arise after purchasing the plan rather than pre-existing problems.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is intended to provide guidance on the proper maintenance and care of systems and appliances in the home. Not all the topics mentioned are covered by our home warranty plans. Please review your home warranty contract carefully to understand your coverage.

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