The Importance of a Well-functioning Dryer
If you want to prevent laundry from piling up, you’ll need a dryer that runs efficiently. Like all other household appliances, clothing dryers require regular maintenance, plus some parts can wear out after years of use. In this guide, we’ll look at some of the most common dryer problems, explore ways to fix them, and help you know when you can attempt to fix the problem yourself and when to call a technician.
Understanding Your Dryer
So how does a dryer work? A dryer typically consists of a metal drum that constantly rotates using a motor and belt. While the drum is spinning, heated air is circulated through the drum, causing water to evaporate. This process is regulated by an internal thermostat and a sensor, which ensure the appropriate temperature to dry clothing without causing a safety risk.
Types of Dryers
Clothes dryers are either gas or electric. Here’s a brief overview of how each dryer type works.
- Electric dryers have internal heating elements that create hot air in the drum. These components operate much like the heating elements on an electric space heater or a hairdryer.
- Gas dryers actually have both electrical and gas-powered components. Propane or natural gas is used to produce heat, while the motor, blower, panel controls and other parts are powered by electricity.
Common Dryer Problems and Their Causes
Here are some common issues customers face with their dryer and some possible explanations as to what may be causing them.
Dryer Won’t Start
This problem can occur for several reasons. It’s possible that the door latch is broken, or something is preventing the door from closing. It could also be that the start switch is malfunctioning, the dryer is unplugged, or a circuit breaker was tripped.
Dryer Won’t Spin
This can occur if the belt that connects to the motor and causes the drum to rotate is broken, the motor itself is defective or if the thermal fuse has blown out.
Your Dryer Takes Too Long
If you’re dryer seems to operate normally yet it’s taking more time than usual to dry a load of clothes, there could be several reasons:
- You’ve overloaded the dryer.
- Your washing machine isn’t removing enough water during the spin cycle.
- The dryer vent or vent pipes could be clogged, preventing water vapor from evaporating properly. This could also be fire hazard.
Dryer Won’t Stop
Most dryers have an internal mechanism that prevents the drum from spinning when the door is open. If your dryer continues spinning even after you’ve opened the door, it’s possible that the door switch is blocked or broken, or the door sensor — if there is one — is malfunctioning.
Dryer Overheats
If your dryer overheats during use, you could have a clogged dryer vent, or the timer may be broken. Also, if you have a smart dryer with an automatic sensor that detects when clothing is dry, the sensor could be defective.
Fixing Common Dryer Problems
Here’re are some tips for troubleshooting common dryer issues.
What to Do If Your Dryer Won’t Start
- First, check to make sure that your dryer is plugged in. If the plug looks secure, check the breaker box to see if a circuit breaker was tripped.
- If there’s no problem with the connection, check to see if a stray object is stuck in the door latch or an article of clothing is preventing the door from closing completely.
- Lastly, inspect the dryer start switch to see if it seems loose or broken.
If the circuit breaker was tripped, this could mean that your dryer is a fire hazard. If a breaker constantly trips, stop using the dryer and call a professional.
What to Do if Your Dryer Won’t Spin
If your dryer drum has stopped spinning and you suspect a problem with the dryer belt, motor or thermal fuse, call a professional to inspect your dryer.
What to Do If Your Dryer Takes Too Long
- If the dryer drum seems too full, try dividing loads of wet laundry into smaller loads. Most manufacturers recommend loading your dryer 2/3 full or less, but check your owner’s manual for details.
- If you suspect your washing machine may not be removing enough water during the spin cycle, check the owner’s manual for tips on how to troubleshoot this issue.
- Try checking the dryer vents and vent pipes to make sure they’re clear. If you spot a clog, remove it before continuing to use your dryer. See our Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Dryer Vents for more help.
What to Do If Your Dryer Won’t Stop Spinning
If the dryer continues to operate when you open the door, call a technician to inspect it.
What to Do If Your Dryer Overheats
Check to make sure the dryer vents aren’t clogged and the lint screen is clean. If you suspect that the timer or automatic sensor isn’t working properly, contact a technician to inspect your dryer.
When to Call a Professional
Here are some common reasons to call a technician who is certified in repairs for dryers.
- If you can’t figure out what’s causing the problem.
- If you don’t understand how to repair your dryer.
- If fixing your dryer involves electrical work.
- If you don’t understand how to turn off the power to your dryer or how to inspect it safely.
- If doing the work yourself might void the warranty.
Working on appliances can be dangerous if you’re not experienced. Always check the dryer manufacturer’s guidance for additional information on safety and on when to call a technician.
Maintaining Your Dryer
Below are some tips to ensure your dryer is always in good working order.
- Wipe out the dryer drum monthly to prevent buildup and unpleasant odors.
- Inspect the ducts regularly to ensure they’re free from clogs.
- Don’t overload the dryer.
- Keep the lint trap clean.
- Empty the lint screen after each use.
- Clean away dust and lint from underneath and behind your dryer regularly to prevent a fire hazard.
Conclusion
- Some common dryer problems can be remedied at home if you know how to do so safely. Other problems require the attention of a professional.
- Always check your owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips before repairing a dryer.
- Never attempt to work on the electrical components of your dryer, as this could be dangerous. Call a professional if you suspect electrical problems.
- It’s important to regularly clean and maintain your dryer to keep it functioning properly, prevent unnecessary repairs and prevent a fire hazard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions users have about their dryer.
What Would Cause My Dryer to Stop Working?
If your dryer has stopped working, it could be because a circuit breaker was tripped or a part is broken, such as a sensor, an on-off switch or a heating element. If you have a gas dryer, there could be a problem with the supply line.
Can You Repair a Dryer by Yourself?
The simple answer as to whether you can repair a dryer yourself is, it depends on the problem. Simple issues such as clogged dryer vents can be fixed without calling a technician if you understand how to do so safely. More complicated problems like faulty electrical components, or any issues in which servicing the dryer could void the warranty, should always be handled by a professional.
What Are Common Problems with a Dryer Not Working?
Some of the most common problems that can prevent a dryer from running optimally are:
- An exhaust duct or lint screen that’s clogged
- Damaged gas valve coils on a gas dryer
- A malfunctioning gas supply line on a gas dryer
- A damaged heating element on an electric dryer
What Usually Goes Bad on a Dryer?
The heating elements on an electric dryer and the gas valve coils are the parts that most often go bad on a standard dryer. Also, for smart dryers, the sensor can sometimes stop working for a variety of reasons.