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Is a 7.3 cubic foot dryer big?
Yes. A 7.3 cubic foot dryer is considered a large-capacity size, so it has enough drum space for bulky items (like comforters) and bigger mixed loads. For a Whirlpool electric dryer like model WED5720RR0, that capacity typically means fewer loads and less overdrying from crowding.
What “7.3 cu. ft.” means in real use
A larger drum helps clothes tumble more freely, which improves airflow and drying performance.
- Fits bulky items more comfortably (comforters, blankets, winter coats)
- Handles larger family loads with fewer cycles
- Reduces wrinkling compared with stuffing a smaller drum
- Helps moisture escape faster because items can separate and tumble
- Works best when you still avoid overloading (leave some tumble room)
Capacity quick guide
These ranges are typical for full-size residential dryers.
| Dryer capacity | Common label | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| 5.0 to 6.0 cu. ft. | Standard | Singles, couples, smaller loads |
| 6.1 to 7.0 cu. ft. | Large | Regular family laundry |
| 7.1 cu. ft. and up | Extra-large | Bulky items and heavy weekly loads |
Why it matters
When a dryer is too small for your load size, clothes pack together and block airflow. That can cause long dry times, higher energy use, and extra heat stress on components like the heater and thermostats.
Tips to get the best results from a large-capacity dryer
- Clean the lint screen before every load
- Use the right cycle (timed dry for consistent loads, sensor cycles for mixed loads)
- Avoid packing the drum tight; large capacity still needs tumbling space
- If dry times are long, check venting for restrictions and lint buildup
- If the dryer runs but won’t heat, follow an electric-dryer heat diagnosis like electric dryer wont heat troubleshooting video
Last updated: February 2026
What are the most common issues with WED5720RR0?
The most common issues we see on the Whirlpool WED5720RR0 electric dryer are no heat or weak heat, long dry times from restricted airflow, loud rumbling or squealing from worn drum support parts, and a drum that will not turn due to a belt or idler problem.
Common symptoms and what usually causes them
- No heat: failed heating circuit component such as the thermal fuse W10909685 or a heater-related safety device
- Long dry times: lint buildup in the lint duct or exhaust duct, crushed vent, or a weak blower wheel
- Loud thumping/rumbling: worn drum rollers such as the dryer drum support roller WPW10314173
- Squealing: worn idler pulley or idler spring
- Drum will not tumble: belt/idler issue, motor problem, or a seized drum roller
- Overheating or shutting off: airflow restriction or a thermostat/thermal cut-off opening
Quick checks we recommend first
- Clean the lint screen and confirm strong airflow at the outside vent.
- Inspect the vent path for kinks, long runs, or heavy lint.
- Listen for the noise type:
- Thump/rumble often points to rollers
- High-pitched squeal often points to the idler pulley
- If the dryer runs but does not heat, test safety fuses and thermostats with a meter.
- If the dryer is dead or stops mid-cycle, check the thermal fuse and door switch.
Parts that commonly fix these problems
| Symptom | Commonly involved part | Example from this model’s parts |
|---|---|---|
| No heat | Thermal fuse | Thermal fuse W10909685 |
| Rumbling/thumping | Drum support roller | Dryer drum support roller WPW10314173 |
| Squealing or no tumble | Idler pulley | Dryer idler pulley (listed for this model) |
| Long dry times | Blower wheel or ducting | Dryer blower wheel, lint duct, exhaust duct |
Why it matters
Airflow and heat problems can trigger thermal safety devices, increase dry times, and overwork the heating element and motor. Fixing venting and worn drum support parts helps the WED5720RR0 dry faster, run quieter, and avoid repeat failures.
Last updated: March 2026
What is the average lifespan of a whirlpool dryer?
Most Whirlpool dryers, including the Whirlpool WED5720RR0 electric dryer, typically last 10 to 13 years with normal household use. With consistent airflow maintenance and timely replacement of wear parts, it’s common for a dryer to reach about 15 years.
Typical lifespan and what affects it
A dryer’s life is mostly determined by heat stress, airflow restriction, and mechanical wear.
- Vent and lint buildup (restricted airflow overheats components)
- Load size and frequency (heavy, daily use shortens life)
- Heat setting habits (high heat all the time increases wear)
- Wear parts condition (rollers, idler pulley, blower wheel)
- Electrical health (stable power and good connections reduce failures)
Maintenance that extends dryer life
These habits reduce overheating and mechanical strain, which are the two biggest dryer killers.
- Clean the lint screen every load
- Check airflow at the outside vent hood; strong flow matters
- Clean the vent duct at least once a year (more often with long runs)
- Avoid overloading; keep loads loose so air can move
- Stop using the dryer if you hear persistent squealing or thumping; replace wear parts early
Parts that commonly wear out first (and why)
If your WED5720RR0 is noisy, slow to dry, or overheating, these parts are frequent culprits.
| Symptom | Common cause | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Squealing, rumbling | Drum support wear | Dryer drum support roller WPW10314173 |
| Squealing, belt slack | Idler pulley wear | Dryer idler pulley W10837240 |
| No heat or overheating shutdown | Heat safety opens | Thermal fuse W10909685 |
| Poor airflow, long dry times | Blower damage or lint load | Dryer blower wheel WP697772 |
Why it matters
Knowing the average lifespan helps you decide whether to repair or refresh key components. On a dryer in the 10 to 13 year range, replacing common wear items can restore performance and help prevent secondary damage from overheating or vibration.
Last updated: February 2026
