How to Repair a Clothes Dryer
A clothes dryer is a sophisticated appliance used for drying clothes and other linen. Clothes dryers are indispensable in many households and if one breaks down it can cause unwanted frustration and delay. Here are some preliminary steps you can take to get your dryer back in working order.
If the Dryer Will Not Start or Makes Unusual Noises
Required Materials and Tools
- voltage tester
- replacement cord
- replacement switch
Instructions
- Checking the Connections - Check that the power cord is properly plugged in and the power is turned on. Also inspect the socket into which the cord is plugged using a voltage tester - most electric dryers operate on 240 volts.
- Checking the Door and Timer - Ensure that the dryer door is completely closed and the timer is functioning properly. Also make sure that an appropriate cycle is selected.
- Checking the Power Cord and Terminal Block - After unplugging the clothes dryer, thoroughly inspect the power cord and terminal block. You should be able to see if the power cord needs replacing.
- Inspecting the Door Switch - The door switch should be functioning properly. Each time the door switch is pressed and released, it should click. If you are good at fixing home appliances, replacing a switch that isn’t clicking should be easy; alternatively, get in touch with the appliance maker’s service department.
After exploring all of the above options, if you discover that the clothes dryer still refuses to start, there is a possibility that the thermal fuse or some other electronic part is defective. This problem would need to be addressed by service personnel.
If the Dryer is Taking a Long Time to Dry Clothes
Required Materials and Tools
- electric leaf blower
- replacement lint trap
Instructions
- Inspecting the Lint Trap - Ensure that the lint trap is free from all lint. This should be cleaned periodically.
- Check the Airflow - The clothes dryer should be placed at a safe distance from the wall. If it is placed too close to the wall, airflow through the duct hose may become restricted or blocked.
- Disconnecting the Air Duct Hose - Clean the built-up lint by disconnecting the air duct hose from the back of the gas dryer.
- Use an Electric Leaf Blower - An electric leaf blower will make it easier to blow lint through the duct.
Tips and Warnings
- Prior to the loading process, it is always advisable to clean the lint filter.
- When only two to three items need to be dried, it is better to add a few more items if possible. This will improve not only the tumbling action, but also the drying results. It is also more energy efficient and better for the environment.