You toss your load in the dryer, set the timer, and walk away. You go back to grab your work pants and prepare only to find that the dryer is not working as it should. Here are some dryer repair tips to help get your dryer working again.
If it doesn’t work at all, there are a few things you can try.
- No power
Make sure the power cord is plugged in. Unplug it and plug it in again. Check the circuit breakers to make sure they have not tripped or that a fuse has not blown. You can also use a voltmeter to check the plug to make sure there is power to the plug.
- Door switch
On the door there is a switch or sensor that when closing the door presses against a lever which then activates a door switch that allows the dryer to turn on. If that lever breaks, the switch cannot be activated and the dryer cannot start. You may need to replace this lever.
- Thermal fuse
Almost all dryers on the market have a thermal fuse. This fuse will blow if the dryer overheats. When this happens, one of two things happens. The dryer stops working completely or works but does not emit heat. You will usually find this fuse under the ventilation duct inside the dryer. If the fuse is blown, you will want to replace it.
- Faulty timers
Occasionally a dryer timer can be faulty, so even if you have turned the dryer on, it does not recognize movement and therefore the dryer will not turn on dryer repair.
If it’s not hot, there are a few things you can try.
- Gas valve coils
If the igniter ignites but then turns off before it ignites, the gas is likely due to a bad coil. Replace all coils; there are usually at least a couple and sometimes more. The gas valve may also need to be replaced.
- Thermal fuse
If the dryer overheats, the thermal fuse will blow, which means that your dryer will not work at all or it will work but will not shed heat. Look at the ventilation duct inside the dryer; This is where you will usually find the fuse. Replace it.
- Lighter
The lighter may be faulty or because it is so fragile that it can easily break. You should never touch the lighter except the ceramic part.
- Flame sensor
This sensor is near the igniter and will need to be replaced if it is faulty or worn.
If your dryer is blowing heat but it takes too long to dry your clothes, there are a few things you can check.
- Vents
Check the vent hose and vent only to make sure there are no obstructions. Lint collects inside the dryer and, if you don’t clean it regularly, it lands on the vent pipe, reducing the efficiency of the dryer and increasing the risk of fire.
