theapplianceguy@live.com Highway South Des Moines, WA 98198
English
(206) 503-8625

What Are the Most Common Dryer Problems and Their Fixes?

Introduction 

A dryer is the most useful but neglected appliance in a home, until it stops working. Whether you are rushing to dry school uniforms or need your towels to be freshened for guests, a malfunctioning dryer can throw your entire routine off. Most of the dryer problems are easily identifiable, and in some cases, you can fix them yourself without calling a professional. If the problem is large and you need the experts, even then, knowing the cause of the dryer issue can save you time and sometimes money when timely repaired. 

Quick Fixes For the Most Common Dryer Malfunctions 

Gas or electric dryers share many of the same parts: belts, drums, heating elements, thermostats, and sensors. With time, lint buildup, wear and tear, or faulty parts can lead to performance issues. Some of them are quick DIY fixes, while others may require professional help. Keep on reading to find out the common dryer problems and the ways to fix them:

  • Dryer Not Turning On

The possible causes of a dryer not turning on include a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty switch, a blown thermal fuse, or a door that is not closed properly. These issues can easily be fixed.
  • Check the power source, but make sure that the power is unplugged
  • Reset the circuit breaker if tripped
  • Check the dryer door. The dryers do not start if the door is not closed properly. 
  • If the thermal fuse is blown, replace it with a new one.

  • Clothes Taking Too Long to Dry

If your clothes are taking a lot of time to dry properly, it might be due to a clogged lint filter, blocked vent hose, overloaded drum, or faulty heating element. A clogged vent not only slows the drying process but also poses a fire hazard.  To fix this issue, clean the lint filter after every use, inspect and clean the vent hose, and avoid overloading because too many clothes can trap moisture. And if the airflow is clear, test the heating element and repair it. 

  • The Dryer Making Strange Noises

If you hear an unusual noise from your dryer, it might be due to a belt issue, worn-out drum rollers, or a loose blower wheel. Noise is often a sign of parts wearing down; timely fixes avoid costly repairs.  To fix this, identify what type of noise it is. Thumping means worn-out rollers, while squealing could be due to a bad belt. Replace worn rollers or belts and tighten a loose blower wheel. 

  • Dryer Overheating

Overheating can damage your clothes and increase the fire risk. The possible causes of the dryer overheating are a malfunctioning thermostat, a faulty heating element, or a blocked vent or lint filter.  To fix this issue, check the thermostat and replace it if it is not regulating the temperature properly. If the heating element is damaged, replace it immediately. Check and clear lint in the filter or vent. 

  • Dryer Drum Not Spinning

This is one of the most common problems in a dryer. It might be due to a faulty or broken dryer belt, worn drum rollers, or motor issues. This issue can easily be fixed. Open the dryer cabinet and inspect the drive belt. If it is loose or broken, replace it. Also, check the drum rollers and idler pulley for wear and tear. In case the motor hums but the drum does not move, the motor might need to be replaced. 

  • Dryer Has No Heat

The reason for a blown thermal fuse might be a blown fuse, a bad heating element, a faulty thermostat, or a temperature switch. This issue can be resolved by testing the heating element for electrical continuity and replacing the faulty thermostat or switches. To fix the overheating cause, inspect the thermal fuse thoroughly and replace it if it is blown.

Conclusion

Dryers are an essential part of our home, but like all other home appliances, they can develop problems over time. The key to avoiding major repairs is regular maintenance like cleaning lint filters, checking vents, and addressing small issues early. Although small issues can be fixed with DIY, major issues like gas-related or electrical issues should be left to professionals. By knowing the potential cause and fix, you can keep your dryer running efficiently and extend its lifespan.  Read More:

FAQs

How often should I clean my dryer vent? At least once a year, or more often if you dry multiple loads weekly, to maintain airflow and reduce the risk of fire. How long should a dryer last? With proper care and maintenance, most dryers last 10–15 years. What is the most common problem with dryers? One of the most common problems with dryers is, they stop heating properly, which results in damp clothes.   
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Leave a comment

Recent Post

Quick Links