Top Dryer Problems And How To Fix Them

Every home appliance requires regular maintenance and timely repairs to perform optimally, and the dryer is no exception. Once the washer washes the clothes, the job of the dryer is to complete the laundry process by drying the clothes. A reliable and efficiently running dryer is a necessity. It saves time spent on laundry and eliminates the hassle of hanging wet clothes on a line outdoors for drying.

A broken or malfunctioning dryer is a major inconvenience. However, like other appliances, a dryer may act up at times and fail to perform its job efficiently and effectively, affecting the laundry process.

While some dryer problems have quick fixes, others may require the assistance of a professional appliance repair company to diagnose and repair the issues. This article highlights the most common dryer problems and ways to fix them.

The dryer fails to start

A dryer not turning on is a major issue that can happen for several reasons. First, ensure that the dryer is plugged into the power source and reset the tripped circuit breaker. Another reason is dirty or faulty door switches. Clean the door switch to remove lint and debris or call a technician to replace the door switch. A malfunctioning start switch, broken sensor, and thermal fuse may also prevent the dryer from turning on. It is best to call a technician to look into the issue and fix or replace any internal component. 

The dryer stops tumbling

One of the most common causes behind a dryer not tumbling is worn-out or broken belt. If the motor is running, the dryer belt is the likely culprit. A defective belt prevents the drum from spinning and making the clothes dry and wrinkle-free. A new belt of the correct size and model can get the dryer tumbling again. Worn-out drum support rollers and seized motor and support parts are other culprits. An appliance repair technician can inspect and replace the malfunctioning parts to get the dryer up and running again. 

A noisy or vibrating dryer

Unusual or odd noises from the dryer indicate a problem that demands immediate attention. The moving parts of the dryer may wear out with time and make squealing, thumping, squeaking, and humming noises. A dryer may squeak due to a problem with the idler pulley, an issue with drum support bearing can cause grinding noises, and broken or worn-out glides can create thumping sounds. A professional can look to determine which parts need replacement. A vibrating dryer is often due to imbalance. Check the dryer’s level and position the legs accordingly. 

The dryer is not heating 

Lack of sufficient heat or not heat causes the clothes to come out wet or wrinkled from the dryer. Check the dryer settings to ensure everything is correct. The heating element can break due to a blocked dryer vent, clogged lint screen, or overloading the unit. A faulty thermal fuse, burned-out gas flame sensor, or a damaged gas igniter can cause heat loss in a dryer. A technician can clear the clogs and replace the heating element or other faulty parts.

The dryer heating too much

A dryer getting too hot is hazardous and, on some occasions, can lead to overheating, damaged or burned clothes, and small fires. The reasons may include lint build-up, broken or malfunctioning thermostat, clogged air passage, motor issues, and faulty roller or front glides. Do not operate an overheating dryer, and call a certified technician to look into the problem. 

Regularly clearing the lint screen, not overloading the dryer, keeping the dryer vents free of clogs, periodic drum cleaning, and regular maintenance can help avoid most dryer problems. If your dryer is experiencing these problems and basic troubleshooting fails to fix it, call a reliable appliance repair professional to restore proper functioning.