Laundry
Scratch and dent dryers
A dryer is a simple machine: a drum, a motor, a heat source and a vent. Cosmetic damage to the cabinet almost never touches any of them, which makes dryers one of the safest outlet purchases.
Where the damage usually is
Typical outlet dryers have a dented side or top panel, a scratched door, or a cracked control panel trim piece.
What to check before you buy
- Open the door and turn the drum by hand. It should roll freely without thumping, which would point to a worn roller or a flat spot.
- Check the back: the exhaust collar should be round and undented so the vent duct seals properly. A crushed exhaust outlet restricts airflow and slows drying.
- Match the fuel and the plug. Electric dryers need a 240-volt outlet and a cord sold separately; gas dryers need a gas line and a 120-volt outlet.
- Look for the moisture sensor bars inside the drum on sensor-dry models and make sure they are not bent.
Gas or electric
Gas dryers usually cost a little more up front and less to run. If your laundry room already has a gas line, an outlet gas dryer is often the best long-term value.
Example dryer models and prices
These listings come from this site’s earlier outlet pages and show the typical gap between retail and scratch and dent prices. They are historical references, not current offers. Models change every year; use the specs to compare with what you find today.
| Brand and model | Description | Retail | Outlet | Saving |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frigidaire FAQE7077KW | Affinity 27" electric, 7.0 cu. ft., 7 cycles, moisture sensor, stainless drum, drying rack | $499 | 38% | |
| GE DCVH680EJWW | 7.0 cu. ft. electric, Sensor Dry Plus, 41 1/2" x 27" x 31 1/8" | $569 | 37% | |
| GE Profile DPVH890EJWW | 7.5 cu. ft. electric with SteamRefresh and sensor dry | $799 | 38% |