Picture this: You’ve just finished doing laundry and you open up your dryer, only to find that your clothes are still wet. Frustration sets in as you try to figure out what could be the reason why your dryer not drying.
There are many solutions to fixing a dryer that is not drying clothes. But before that, you need to know the root cause of the issue. It can be because of overloading, wrong dryer setting, clogged air vent, and more!
In this article, we’ll explore the common causes of a dryer not drying dry properly, and how to fix them. You will also learn the following by reading the full article:
- Step by step guide to fix your dryer that is not working properly
- Tips if your dryer does not turn on
- Understanding when to seek a professional’s help or buy a new dryer
Read on to learn all of these!
Step-by-Step Guide If Your Dryer Isn’t Drying Your Clothes
If your clothes dryer isn’t drying warm clothes as expected, there are several possible reasons why it may be malfunctioning. But by following the below steps, you can eliminate potential issues, identify the root cause of the problem, and learn how to resolve it.
Ensure it is not overloading
Avoid overloading your clothes dryer. Whether it is a gas-line dryer or an electric dryer, ensure that you are not putting in too much clothing or many clothes in one drying cycle.
If the dryer drum is full, this can block airflow which causes the drying process to be less efficient. It can also put unnecessary strain on the machine, leading to wear and tear on important components.
Check your clothes dryer settings
Make sure to check your dryer settings before beginning a cycle. Depending on the type of fabric and its desired end result, you may want to adjust the temperature setting, cycle length, and/or drying time.
Using the wrong setting could also cause unnecessary wear and tear on your dryer. High heat or lengthy cycles can reduce the lifespan energy efficiency of your dryer and cause expensive repairs.
Clean the lint filter
Cleaning the lint filter regularly is essential for optimal performance. Lint trap can block the airflow, making it harder for the dryer to function efficiently, which can lead to longer drying times or even overheating.
A clogged or dirty lint screen or filter is also a fire hazard. To keep your dryer running smoothly, be sure to clean the lint filter after every cycle.
Check for clogged air vents through the outside vent
Another crucial maintenance step you can take is to periodically check for clogged vent. Over time, lint and debris can accumulate within the vent, preventing good airflow and causing your dryer to work harder than necessary.
This can result in longer drying times, higher energy bills, and increased wear and tear on your machine. To avoid these issues, inspect the outside vent regularly, and clear any debris using a vacuum cleaner or brush if needed.
Keep the area around the vent clean and ensure there are no obstructions around the vent’s opening. These steps can help ensure optimal dryer performance and prevent costly repairs.
Clean deep inside the dryer vent
Cleaning deep inside the dryer vent is essential to ensure optimal performance and prevent fire hazards. To clean deep inside the dryer vent, you can use a dryer vent cleaning kit which includes a long, flexible brush to reach into the vent and remove built-up lint and debris. Follow these steps:
- Begin by locating your dryer’s exhaust hood and removing its protective plastic cover.
- Then, unplug the dryer’s power supply cord. For gas dryers, it’s important to first close the shut-off valve in the gas supply line, then disconnect and cap the supply line pipe.
- Next, remove the duct tape or heat resistant aluminum tape holding the exhaust vent pipe to the vent-on the back of your dryer.
- Gently push the nylon brush from your dryer cleaning kit into either end of your dryer duct, making sure to follow each turn and corner.
- Clean up any accumulated lint trap that comes out of the opposite side of the duct.
- Afterward, reconnect the vent pipe and power cord for electric dryer or gas supply for gas dryers.
- Run an empty cycle for about 10 to 15 minutes to catch any residual dust and confirm that the vent is now clean.
Ensure your vent system is properly installed
A poorly installed or damaged vent system can obstruct airflow, leading to increased drying time, overheating, and higher energy bills. These issues can save money but also lead to dangerous situations, such as dryer fires.
To check whether your dryer’s vent system is correctly installed, follow these steps:
- Start by examining the outside vent to confirm that it is clear of any obstructions, such as lint or debris.
- Then, inspect the vent pipe that connects your dryer to the outside vent, and ensure that it is not bent, crimped, or otherwise damaged. Damaged pipes must be replaced immediately to prevent issues.
Clean the sensor
Dryers come equipped with sensors, which detect the moist air level in clothing to determine when they are dry. If the sensor is dirty or coated with fabric softener, it can give false readings, causing the dryer to shut off before the clothes are dry or to run excessively long, using excess water and thereby wasting energy.
To clean the sensor, you need to do this:
- Unplugging the dryer and removing the lint filter.
- Locate the sensor, which is typically located on the inside of the dryer drum, and clean it with a soft cloth or a warm soapy water.
- Make sure to rub the sensor gently to avoid damaging it, and allow it to dry thoroughly before replacing the lint filter and plugging the dryer back in.
Check the dryer’s airflow
When installing your dryer, make sure it’s in a well-ventilated area that allows for proper airflow. Always leave a few inches of space around the dryer for air circulation, and avoid tight or enclosed spaces.
Additionally, it’s important to regularly check the dryer vents airflow by inspecting the outside vent for any signs of lint, damage or obstructions. You can also use an airflow meter or anemometer to determine how well the dryer is venting.
Inspect the heating element
It’s important to inspect the heating element of your dryer on a regular basis to prevent any potential fire hazard or damage to the machine. To safely inspect the heating element, follow these steps:
- Start by unplugging your dryer and removing the back panel.
- Then, use a flashlight to look over the heating element for signs of wear and tear.
- Additionally, make sure that you clean all lint from around the heating element regularly and test the thermal fuse often.
For more DIY tips on how to repair your dryer, check out this article: Can I Fix My Dryer Myself? Easy Guide For Beginners
Troubleshooting tips if your dryer won’t turn on
If your dryer won’t turn hot water on, then there could be several possible causes.
Check if you dryer is properly plugged
Before you begin troubleshooting why your dryer isn’t operating, make sure it is properly plugged in. Look for any signs of damage on the plug or cord and check to see if it’s securely connected. Additionally, verify that the dryer plugged into it is plugged into a working outlet by testing other appliances in the same outlet.
Check the circuit breaker
If your dryer won’t turn on, one possible solution may be to reset the circuit breaker or power switch. When the circuit breaker trips, it will cause the dryer to lose power and prevent it from functioning. To reset the circuit breaker, locate the fuse box and flip the switch back to its on position.
Inspect the thermal fuse
If your clothes dryer not drying clothes as expected, you may need to inspect and potentially replace the thermal fuse. A thermal fuse is a device that works to keep hot air and prevent the dryer from overheating and causing a fire hazard.
Take a look at the door switch
When troubleshooting your clothes dryer, it’s important to check the door switch as well. This device is responsible for detecting whether the door is open or closed and will not allow the dryer to operate if it senses that the door is open.
Seek for a Professional Repair or Get a New Dryer
If you’re having trouble with your clothes dryer, it may be time to seek professional repair. A qualified technician can inspect the machine and assess any possible problems you may have. They will also be able to suggest any needed parts or repairs and provide a quote for the services.
One way to find a repair technician is by searching online for local service providers who specialize in clothes dryers. You can also ask around at your friends and family’s homes to see if they know of a reputable and dry clothes repair shop they would recommend.
