Dryers play a significant role in decreasing the amount of time you have to spend on laundry. Dryer problems may result in a lot of frustration. Here, we have collated a list of common dryer problems and solutions that can help you to troubleshoot. Of course, there could be other problems, but these are the most common ones. Some are easy fixes that you can do it yourself without having to engage a technician. Whatever you decide to go ahead with, always make sure you place safety as top priority and get rid of the power source to the dryer before you attempt to repair any parts or troubleshoot. Whether yours is a top load or front load dryer, these are common problems faced by many owners.
Dryer Makes Unusual Noises
There are a number of moving parts on dryers and they often start to make noise when they start to show signs of wear and tear. There will be squealing, squeaking, humming, and even thumping. Many of these noises usually indicate a sign that there is something in the dryer that requires attention. A loose drum belt may cause a squealing noise, and you can replace either the idler pulley or belt to stop the squealing noises.
Wrinkled Clothes
If you realize that your clothes are wrinkled after using the dryer, there are a few reasons. Some possible causes are:
- Clothes are not taken out from dryer promptly.
- Not using fabric softener.
- The load is either too big or too small.
- The water level is incorrect.
- The water temperature for the clothing is wrong.
- Laundry is not stored properly.
- Wash and dry cycles are incorrect.
Some solutions to tackle these problems include:
- Ensure that you always remove clothing from the dryer promptly and either hang or fold them immediately.
- The permanent press cycle will be useful in helping to reduce wrinkling by having a cool down cycle before it ends.
- Do not dry more than one load at the same time. This will result in too much clothes being inside at one time.
- Do not mix light and heavy clothing items together.
Dryer Will Not Start
When the dryer does not respond when you press the start button, ensure that the power cord is plugged securely into the wall outlet. If the cord is already plugged in and the dryer is still not starting, the circuit breaker may have tripped. Often, resetting the breaker will fix the power issue. However, if the problem does not lie with the breaker or cord, then perhaps the culprit could be the start switch, thermal fuse, or door switch. These are inexpensive parts that you will be able to replace with simply a pair of needle-nose pliers and a screwdriver.
Dryer Fails to Heat
To create heat inside the drum, the dryer needs airflow. Hence, a clogged dryer filter or blocked dryer vent can result in heat failure. Both electric and gas dryers may have thermal cut-off safety devices and thermal fuse installed to protect against fire and overheating. You may have to get rid of the rear dryer panel so as to replace the necessary safety devices. Other common issues creating heat loss in a dryer includes a burned out gas flame sensor, a broken coil, and a damaged gas igniter. All of these can be replaced easily without a technician.
Dryer Drum Quit Spinning
While all other parts of the dryer seem to function normally, the drum belt typically causes a non-spinning drum. All dryers make use of a drum belt to tumble the clothes and spin the dryer drum. As the belt ages, it may start to stretch and even break. You can do it yourself, but you will need you to open the dryer cabinet and lift the dryer drum to replace the belt.
