Top 5 Dryer Problems: Troubleshooting and Tips

Solve your biggest dryer problems with these hints and tips from our experts.

Is your dryer shutting off early? Does it make strange noises? Have you opened the door after a load finishes running only to be greeted by a pile of wet clothes, or turned it on and find that nothing happens?
Our appliances are supposed to work. So when they don’t, it can be frustrating and confusing, especially if you’re not a repair expert or even a handy DIY type.

The experts at Sears report that the top five dryer problems are:

1. It’s making strange noises or vibrations.

2. It doesn’t heat up.

3. It’s not running at all.

4. It runs but doesn’t fully dry loads.

5. It shuts off too early.

What about the causes of these problems? One big culprit is consistent overloading. Others include blocked ventilation and clogged lint screens.
Here are the top five dryer problems and solutions, identified by the repair experts at Sears. And don’t worry, with proper care and maintenance, your dryer will be up and running again in no time.

1. Dryer Is Making Strange Noises or Vibrations

When your dryer starts making unfamiliar noises or vibrating unusually, it's often due to a worn or damaged dryer drum seal. The drum seal is crucial for maintaining the smooth operation of your dryer and, when compromised, can lead to a range of noises and operational issues. Here's how you can address this problem:

1. Inspect the Drum Seal: Turn off and unplug your dryer. Open the door and carefully inspect the drum seal, which is located at the front and/or rear of the dryer drum. Look for signs of wear, tear, or damage.
2. Remove Foreign Objects: Sometimes, the noise or vibration may be due to objects like coins or buttons that have become lodged in or near the seal. If you find any objects, remove them carefully.
3. Replace the Drum Seal: If the seal is visibly damaged or excessively worn, it will need to be replaced. This involves removing the dryer drum to access the seal. This may be a job best left to a professional unless you have experience with appliance repair.

Preventative Measures

To prevent future issues with your dryer making strange noises or vibrations, consider the following tips:

• Avoid Overloading: Regularly overloading your dryer can put undue stress on the drum seal and other components. Make sure to dry clothes in batches that allow for free movement inside the drum.
• Check Pockets Before Drying: Ensure that all pockets are empty before clothes go into the dryer. Items like coins, screws, or even bones from underwired bras can cause damage if they get caught.
• Regular Maintenance Checks: Periodically inspect the drum seal for signs of wear or damage. Catching issues early can prevent more significant problems down the line.
• Use the Dryer Properly: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for proper use of your dryer. This includes selecting the right settings for the type of laundry you're drying and not exceeding the maximum load capacity.
• Professional Inspection: Consider scheduling an annual inspection with a professional service technician. They can check not only the drum seal but also other critical components to ensure your dryer operates efficiently and safely.

2. Dryer Runs But Never Heats Up

If your dryer runs but doesn't heat up, the most common culprit is a broken heating element. However, other factors like blocked ventilation or a clogged lint screen can also contribute to this issue. Here's how to troubleshoot and fix it:

1. Check the Lint Screen and Ventilation: Before diving into repairs, ensure that the lint screen is clean and the ventilation system is unobstructed. A clogged lint screen or blocked vent can restrict airflow, significantly reducing or even stopping heat production.
2. Inspect the Heating Element: Disconnect the dryer from its power source and locate the heating element. Refer to your dryer's manual for specific instructions. Look for breaks, burns, or abnormalities in the heating coil. A continuity test with a multimeter can confirm if the element is defective. If the heating element is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
3. Check the Thermostat and Fuses: A faulty thermostat or blown thermal fuse can also prevent your dryer from heating. These components can be tested with a multimeter and replaced if they do not show continuity.

Preventative Measures

To prevent future heating issues with your dryer, follow these maintenance and usage practices:

• Regular Lint Screen Cleaning: Clean the lint screen before or after each load to ensure proper airflow. This not only helps with efficient drying but also reduces the risk of overheating.
• Vent Maintenance: Check and clean the dryer venting system at least once a year. Remove any lint buildup within the vents and ensure there are no kinks or obstructions in the vent hose that could restrict airflow.
• Avoid Overloading: Consistently overloading your dryer can strain the heating element and other components, leading to premature failure. Follow your manufacturer's guidelines for load sizes.
• Professional Maintenance: Schedule an annual clean and maintain service with Sears technician. They can perform a comprehensive inspection and maintenance of your dryer’s heating system and other components, ensuring everything is in working order.

3. Dryer Doesn’t Run

A blown thermal fuse is the most common reason when a dryer won't run at all. The causes vary but can involve a clogged lint screen, an overloaded machine, or blocked ventilation.

1. Check the Lint Screen and Ventilation: First, ensure the lint screen is clean and the dryer's external vent is not blocked. A simple inspection and cleaning can sometimes resolve the problem.
2. Inspect and Test the Thermal Fuse: Locate the thermal fuse, which is typically found on the blower housing or at the dryer’s heat source. Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If the fuse does not have continuity, it needs to be replaced.
3. Address the Root Cause: Prevent future thermal fuse blowouts by addressing the underlying issues. Ensure proper dryer loading practices, clean the lint screen after every cycle, and check that the ventilation system is clear and functional.

Preventative Measures:

• Regular Maintenance: Keep the lint screen clean and routinely check the dryer venting to the outside to ensure it is not obstructed.
• Avoid Overloading: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for appropriate load sizes to prevent overheating.
• Professional Inspection: If unsure about the condition of your dryer’s ventilation system or thermal fuse, seek professional inspection and maintenance.

4. Dryer Runs But Doesn’t Dry Clothes

Over 90% of service calls for not drying are venting issues caused by a clogged lint screen, an overloaded machine, or blocked ventilation.

1. Clean the Lint Screen: Remove lint accumulation before or after each cycle to promote better airflow.
2. Inspect and Clean Ventilation: Ensure the dryer vent hose is not kinked, crushed, or obstructed. Cleaning the vent from the dryer to the outside vent cap can dramatically improve drying efficiency.
3. Load Correctly: Avoid overloading the dryer, which can restrict airflow and lengthen drying times.

Maintenance Tips:

• Annual Vent Cleaning: Consider a professional vent cleaning service annually to clear deep-seated lint and debris.
• Monitor Load Sizes: Distribute laundry evenly and do not exceed the dryer’s capacity.
• Check Settings: Ensure you're using the correct heat setting and cycle for the load type.

5. Dryer Runs But Then Shuts Off Mid-Cycle

A dryer that shuts off in the middle of the cycle is most frequently a problem with the thermostat. This is usually due to blocked vent, a clogged lint screen, or a consistently overloaded machine.

1. Ventilation and Lint Screen: As with the previous issues, start by checking and cleaning the lint screen and ensuring the ventilation path is clear.
2. Thermostat Check: If the dryer continues to shut off mid-cycle, the thermostat may be faulty or covered in lint. Locate the thermostat, clean around it, and test it with a multimeter for proper functioning. Replace if defective.

Preventing Future Problems:

• Routine Cleaning: Keep the lint trap and area around the thermostat clean to prevent overheating.
• Balanced Loading: Ensure each load is suitably sized and balanced to promote optimal air circulation.
• Professional Help: For persistent issues, particularly with the thermostat, consulting with a professional can save time and ensure safety.

If you're experiencing dryer problems, schedule a dryer repair service with Sears Home Services. Our certified technicians are equipped with the knowledge and tools to diagnose and fix your dryer promptly and effectively.
To keep your dryer running smoothly and prevent future problems, consider setting up a routine maintenance schedule. Regular maintenance by professional technicians can extend the life of your dryer, improve its efficiency, and save you money on energy bills and unexpected repairs. Schedule your routine dryer maintenance with Sears Home Services today, and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your appliance is in good hands.