For many of us, doing laundry is a necessary part of life. But if the dryer doesn’t seem to be doing its job correctly, you may feel frustrated and confused. If your clothes are still wet after a cycle or there’s an unusual amount of noise coming from the machine, it’s time to start troubleshooting. We’ll explore some common reasons your dryer isn’t working properly and what you can do to ensure laundry day goes smoothly again.
Clogged Vent
If you’ve been experiencing issues with your dryer lately, a clogged air vent could be the culprit. When your dryer vent becomes blocked, it can cause the appliance to overheat and lead to potential fire hazards. Checking for a clogged vent is fairly simple. Detach the vent from the back of the dryer and inspect it for any buildups of lint or debris. If you spot clogs, clear them out with a vent brush or call a professional to help.
Thermal Fuse Issue
Another common culprit behind a non-functioning dryer is an issue with the thermal fuse. This tiny component plays a big role in preventing your dryer from overheating. But how do you know if a malfunctioning thermal fuse is the root of the problem? Some telltale signs include a dryer that won’t turn on at all or one that turns on but won’t heat up. To troubleshoot the issue, you’ll need to locate the thermal fuse and test it for continuity using a multimeter. Again, a professional can make this process smoother.
Broken Start Switch
A broken start switch can be a major headache when keeping your dryer up and running. The start switch sends the initial signal to the dryer’s motor, setting it in motion to dry your clothes. If this switch breaks, it can lead to the dryer not starting, leaving you with wet clothing and a big inconvenience. There are a few things to consider when identifying a broken start switch. If you press the start button and nothing happens, or if the dryer only works intermittently, then it’s likely that the start switch is faulty. To troubleshoot this issue, you can check the switch for continuity with a multimeter or replace it altogether.
Faulty Thermostat
A faulty thermostat can also cause problems with your dryer. Essentially, the thermostat in your dryer regulates the temperature. If it’s not functioning properly, your appliance won’t be able to heat up properly. This problem can lead to damp clothes or, even worse, damage to your dryer. Knowing how to identify a faulty dryer thermostat can save you both time and money in the long run. Watch for signs like your dryer not heating up or clothes taking longer to dry than usual.
Now that you know common reasons your dryer won’t work, you can work to identify and solve these issues today. If the problem persists after you attempt to diagnose it, don’t be afraid to seek professional help.
