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  1. Repair

Dryer not draining

Common reasons your dryer not draining

The most common reasons your dryer is not draining are an open heating element, defective electronic control board or a faulty thermal fuse.

  • 29%

    29% of the time it's the
    Heating Element

  • 23%

    23% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 16%

    16% of the time it's the
    Thermal Fuse

  • 32%

    32% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Common dryer repair parts you may need

    Replacing one of these dryer parts may fix your problem.

    Heating Element Replacement

    If your condensing or ventless dryer is failing to drain, a malfunctioning heating element might be the culprit. In a condensing dryer, the electronic control board will recognize an open heating element and usually stop all dryer functions. Consequently, if the control board detects an issue with the heating element, it may not provide power to the drain pump to expel condensate water. If your dryer isn't draining properly, it's advisable to have a Sears Home Services Technician inspect and repair the appliance.


    Electronic Control Board Replacement

    When a condensing or ventless dryer fails to drain, it could be due to a faulty electronic control board. In such cases, the control board may not be sending electrical current to the drain pump motor. A malfunctioning relay on the control board might hinder the flow of current to the drain pump, preventing the condensate from being expelled. Additionally, internal issues with the control board's logic could impede its ability to detect dryer conditions accurately. If your dryer isn't draining properly, it's advisable to schedule a visit from a Sears Home Services Repair Expert to address and resolve the issue.

    Thermal Fuse Replacement

    If your condensing or ventless dryer is failing to drain, a defective or blown thermal fuse might be the culprit. This fuse serves as a safety mechanism, activating when the dryer overheats. Typically, when the thermal fuse blows, the electronic control will shut down all dryer functions, including the drain pump, which then fails to expel condensate water. If your dryer is experiencing drainage issues, it's recommended to arrange for a Sears Home Services Technician to come to your home and address the problem.

    What to expect when you experience a dryer not draining issue

    How to fix a draining problem in a condensing dryer

    Addressing most drainage issues typically entails replacing components such as the heating element, electronic control board, or thermal fuse. However, given the variety of potential causes, a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem effectively. An accurate diagnosis is also essential for determining the cost of the repair.

    Sears Home Services advice for a dryer that is not draining

    If your dryer is not draining, there could be various reasons behind it. To prevent replacing unnecessary parts, we advise having a Sears Home Services professional conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact cause of the issue. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing all kinds of dryer malfunctions.

    What to expect with a dryer not draining diagnosis

    Understanding and diagnosing modern appliances without adequate knowledge and training can pose challenges. Attempting repairs without employing proper diagnostic methods often leads to replacing parts based solely on guesswork. Over the past decade, appliances have evolved significantly, incorporating complex electronic components that are challenging to assess. As a result, do-it-yourself repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming progressively more complicated.

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    Dryer service

    He was professional and polite. I didn't call back later that afternoon, although he replaced a thermostat the smart dry timer doesn't work as I was still having the same issue. The lady said she would email him and have him return. Never heard from anyone else.


    Terry F, Oklahoma City, OK

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    Glossary Terms

    Natural gas is a fossil fuel used primarily for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It's a hydrocarbon gas mixture consisting mainly of methane, but it also contains smaller amounts of other hydrocarbons and sometimes sulfur compounds.

    A gas dryer is a laundry appliance that uses natural gas or propane to generate heat to dry clothes.

    A furnace limit switch is a safety device in a furnace that monitors the temperature of the air passing over the heat exchanger. It shuts off the burner if the air becomes too hot, preventing overheating and potential damage to the furnace or your home.

    A humidifier is a device designed to increase humidity levels in a single room or an entire building, improving air quality and comfort.

    Common dryer symptoms to look out for

    These dryer brands may also experience not draining