Having a dryer that won’t dry clothes can put a damper on anyone’s routine, especially as the weather gets colder and laundry starts piling up. Before you call in a professional repair team or rush to replace the appliance, there are a few things you can try on your own. Maydone’s expert technicians will walk you through step-by-step solutions to help you diagnose, and fix your dryer quickly so you can move on with your day.
Start By Checking The Basics
Before diving into the more technical troubleshooting let’s make sure you have the basics on lock.
- Verify that the dryer is plugged in.
- The door is securely closed
- The lint filter is clean
These are the three major disruptors for dryers: inadequate power source, an unclosed door or inadequate airflow due to a clogged lint filter are common culprits for poor drying performance.
Inspect the Ventilation System
A properly functioning ventilation system is crucial for effective drying since you need the hot air to dry clothes properly and the humidity to be ventilated out of the dryer.
How can you check a dryer’s ventilation system?
- Make sure the vent hose is installed properly, so the ventilation system is closed and working
- Check your vent hose for obstructions, such as lint buildup, a piece of clothing, or kinks
- Ensure that the vent exhaust on the exterior of your home is clear of debris and blockages
Improving airflow from and to the dryer can fix the issue of wet clothes and even significantly enhance your dryer’s performance.
Check The Dryer’s Heating Element
The heating element is the part responsible for generating the heat needed to dry your clothes. If it’s faulty, your dryer won’t be able to get hot enough to do its job and you’ll be left with damp laundry at the end of a cycle.
You can use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity in the heat generation. If there’s no continuity, it’s likely defective and needs to be replaced.
Pro tip: We always recommend using genuine appliance parts, as is policy when Maydone repairs any appliance. Because this prevents issues with repair quality, and compatibility with the appliance and makes the repairs last longer.
Adjust The Thermostat Calibration
Dryers have multiple thermostats that regulate the temperature during the drying process. Over time, these thermostats can become misaligned or malfunction.
Test the thermostats for continuity and replace any that show signs of failure. Ensure they are properly calibrated to the recommended settings for your appliance.
Assess The Thermal Fuse:
The thermal fuse acts as a safety feature, shutting off the dryer if it overheats. A blown thermal fuse can disrupt the drying cycle. Use a multimeter to check for continuity, and if the fuse is blown, replace it. Keep in mind that a blown thermal fuse may be a symptom of another underlying issue, such as restricted airflow.
Inspect Your Drum Belt
The drum belt is responsible for turning the drum, allowing your clothes to tumble during the drying process. If the belt is broken or loose, it can result in a dryer that won’t effectively dry clothes. Check the belt for any signs of wear, and replace it if necessary.
Clean Dryer Vent
Over time, lint and debris can accumulate in the dryer vent, restricting airflow and causing your dryer to underperform.
How To Clean Your Dryer Vent?
- Disconnect the vent from the back of the dryer
- Use a vent-cleaning brush to remove any obstructions
- Cleaning the vent regularly can prevent future issues and improve drying efficiency
Check The Igniter and Gas Valve Solenoids (Gas Dryers)
For gas dryers, a faulty igniter can be the reason for inadequate heating so checking that is a must.
- If you notice that your gas dryer is not producing a flame, the igniter may need a replacement
- Consult your dryer’s manual for guidance on locating, testing, and replacing the igniter
Gas dryers also use solenoids to control the gas valve’s opening and closing. If these solenoids malfunction, it can lead to a heating problem.
- Test the solenoids for continuity and replace any that fail the test.
- Consult your dryer’s manual for guidance on locating, testing, and replacing the solenoids
Stay Dry With Maydone!
These step-by-step tips from our experts should help you identify and resolve the issues causing your dryer to underperform. If you at any point need assistance don’t hesitate to call a trusted appliance repairs service to avoid damaging or worsening the dryer problem.
Always remember that your safety is the most important thing, so disconnect the power source before conducting any tests or repairs, and try to have an extra set of eyes and hands around in case you need assistance.
A well-maintained dryer not only ensures your clothes are properly dried but also extends the lifespan of your appliance!
