20 Jun 5 Most Common Dryer Issues: What You Can Do

Is your dryer doing the laundry cha-cha instead of drying your clothes? We’ve all been there – a pile of damp laundry, a looming deadline, and a machine that seems to be deliberately testing your patience.

Dryer malfunctions are not just inconvenient; they can throw a real wrench in your day.

But don’t let a faulty dryer ruin your schedule – or your favourite outfit!

While a broken dryer can be a major headache, most issues are fixable with the right know-how. We’ll guide you through common dryer problems, offering troubleshooting tips and advice on when to call the professionals.

Troubleshooting Tips to Get You Back on Track

Follow these simple tips to help you resume your laundry.

Power On Fails

If your dryer suddenly refuses to start, don’t panic just yet. Start by checking the basics: 

Is it securely plugged into a working outlet? Could a circuit breaker have tripped? 

If the power source seems fine, the culprit could be a faulty door switch (the mechanism that signals to the dryer that the door is closed) or a broken start button.

To investigate further, gently push the door to see if you hear a click from the switch – no click might mean it needs replacing. If you’re comfortable with basic electrical troubleshooting, try unplugging the dryer for a few minutes, then plugging it back in and pressing the start button. This can sometimes reset the machine.

Call a certified technician if you’re unsure about electrical work or if the problem persists despite these checks. Electrical issues can pose serious safety risks, so don’t hesitate to seek expert help.

Runs but Doesn’t Heat

When your dryer is running but leaving your clothes cold and damp, there are a few potential culprits. A blown thermal fuse is a common issue – this safety device cuts off power to the heating element if the dryer gets too hot. Other possibilities include a broken heating element or a faulty thermostat responsible for regulating the dryer’s temperature.

Before you call for help, you can do some quick checks. 

1. Ensure the lint filter is clean – A clogged filter restricts airflow, causing the dryer to overheat and potentially triggering the thermal fuse. 
2. Use your dryer manual for reference – If you’re comfortable and your dryer’s manual provides instructions, you can also peek at the heating element. Look for any obvious signs of damage, like breaks or burn marks.

Diagnosing and fixing heating problems requires specialized tools and electrical know-how. It’s crucial to prioritize safety when dealing with electrical components. If unsure, the best action is to call a qualified technician. They have the expertise and equipment to safely diagnose and repair the issue, ensuring your dryer is back up and running – and heating – properly.

Excessive Noise

If your dryer sounds like it’s hosting a heavy metal concert, there are a few potential causes to investigate. Worn-out drum rollers or supports are often the culprits behind a noisy dryer. 

These parts help the drum spin smoothly, and when they wear down, they can create an array of unpleasant sounds, from squeaking and thumping to rumbling. But the noisemaker might be simpler: loose objects like coins, buttons, or even a forgotten lipstick trapped in the drum can cause quite a racket.

Stop the dryer immediately and carefully check the drum if you suspect a trapped item. Remove any foreign objects and see if the noise subsides. To prevent future noise disruptions, make it a habit to thoroughly empty pockets before tossing clothes in the dryer.

However, if the noise is loud, persistent, or doesn’t go away after removing any loose items, it’s time to seek professional help. Ignoring the noise can lead to further damage and more costly repairs. A technician can accurately diagnose the problem and replace worn-out parts, restoring peace and quiet to your laundry routine.

Takes Forever to Dry

There are several possible culprits if your dryer is running but seems to take an eternity to dry clothes. The most common issue is a clogged vent. This ductwork is responsible for carrying away hot, moist air, and if it’s blocked by lint or debris, the dryer has to work much harder to remove moisture, leading to longer drying times.

Other potential factors include a faulty thermostat (which may not reach the desired temperature) or overloading the dryer.

Before resorting to air-drying your laundry, try a few simple fixes:

1. Make sure the lint filter is clean. This should be a regular practice after every load.
2. Next, don’t forget to clean the vent inside the dryer, where it connects to the back, and outside your house, where it vents. 
3. Overloading the dryer can also restrict airflow and prolong drying time, so be mindful of your load size.

If cleaning the vent doesn’t solve the problem, a more serious issue could be at play. A blockage deep within the vent or a crushed vent hose are problems best left to professionals. A technician can diagnose and repair these issues, ensuring your dryer operates efficiently and dries your clothes in a timely manner.

Leaves Clothes Damp

If your laundry emerges from the dryer still feeling damp, you’re dealing with a common frustration. The culprits behind this problem are often the same ones that cause slow drying: a clogged vent, a faulty thermostat, or an overloaded drum.

Start by checking the lint filter and vent inside the dryer and where it exits your house to ensure they’re free of lint and debris. If you’re cramming too many clothes into the dryer, reduce the load size for better airflow. These simple measures can often resolve the issue.

However, if your clothes consistently come out damp despite your efforts, it’s wise to seek professional help. A dryer that’s not drying properly is likely working harder than it should, which can lead to premature wear and tear on its components. A technician can diagnose the underlying problem and make the necessary repairs to restore your dryer’s efficiency and keep your laundry routine running smoothly.

When Your Dryer Needs a Helping Hand

While some dryer problems can be tackled with DIY troubleshooting, others require the expertise of a professional appliance repair service.

Professional appliance repair services offer various services to get your dryer back in working order. They can:

Diagnose the Problem: Technicians use their expertise and specialized tools to pinpoint the exact cause of your dryer malfunction.

Repair or Replace Parts: They can repair or replace faulty components, such as heating elements, thermostats, motors, belts, and switches.

Perform Maintenance: They can clean the dryer’s vent system, check for any potential problems, and offer advice on how to keep your dryer running smoothly.

Offer Warranty: Reputable appliance repair services often provide a warranty on their work, giving you peace of mind.

By enlisting the help of a professional appliance repair service, you can rest assured that your dryer is in good hands. They can quickly and efficiently diagnose and fix the problem, saving you time and hassle.

Related article: The Importance of Dryer Vent Cleaning and Maintenance

Your Dryer’s Distress Signal? We’re Here to Help!

Remember, most dryer issues are fixable and often with simple solutions. Don’t let a temperamental dryer dampen your spirits or leave you with wet laundry.

If your dryer is acting up, don’t hesitate to peek under the hood (or behind the lint filter) and try our troubleshooting tips. But if the problem persists or seems beyond your DIY comfort zone, it’s time to call in the experts. We’re here to diagnose the problem accurately and get your dryer back to its fluffy best.

Ready to get your dryer back in rhythm? Contact us today and let our team of skilled technicians handle the repair. We’ll have your laundry dry and your worries gone in no time!