When your clothes dryer stops working properly, it disrupts your entire household routine. Before you call a technician or start shopping for a replacement, many common dryer problems have simple solutions you can address yourself. This troubleshooting guide covers the most frequent issues and walks you through diagnostic steps that could save you time and money.
Of course, some problems do require professional attention. We'll also help you recognise when it's time to call an expert rather than attempting DIY repairs that could be dangerous or cause further damage.
⚠️ Safety First
Always unplug your dryer from the power outlet before performing any troubleshooting that involves accessing internal components. For gas dryers, never attempt to work on gas connections yourself—call a licensed professional.
Problem: Dryer Won't Start at All
You press the start button and nothing happens—no sounds, no lights, no response. This is frustrating but often has a simple cause.
Check the Power Supply
It sounds obvious, but verify the dryer is properly plugged in. Plugs can work loose, especially if the dryer vibrates during operation. Also check your home's circuit breaker or fuse box—dryers draw significant power and can trip breakers.
Inspect the Door Switch
Dryers have a safety switch that prevents operation when the door is open. If this switch is faulty, the dryer thinks the door is always open. Close the door firmly and listen for a click. If there's no click, the latch or switch may need attention.
Check the Start Switch
The start button itself can fail. If pressing it produces no response and you've confirmed power is reaching the dryer, the start switch may need replacement—a relatively inexpensive repair.
Thermal Fuse
Dryers have a thermal fuse that cuts power if the unit overheats. Once blown, it won't reset—it needs replacement. This is often caused by restricted airflow from blocked vents or lint buildup. Check your exhaust system before replacing the fuse, or it will blow again.
Problem: Dryer Runs But Won't Heat
The drum spins and air circulates, but clothes come out damp because there's no heat. This is one of the most common dryer complaints.
For Electric Dryers
Check both circuit breakers: Electric dryers often use two breakers. If one trips while the other stays on, the motor runs but the heating element doesn't get power. Reset both breakers.
Heating element failure: The element that generates heat can burn out over time. Signs include no heat at all or visible damage to the coil. Replacement is moderately difficult but possible for handy homeowners.
Thermal fuse or thermostat: Multiple safety devices regulate dryer temperature. If any fail, they can prevent heating. These are relatively inexpensive parts but require accessing the dryer's interior.
For Gas Dryers
Check the gas supply: Ensure the gas valve is open. If other gas appliances aren't working either, there may be a supply issue.
Igniter problems: Gas dryers use an igniter to light the burner. If the igniter glows but gas doesn't ignite, the gas valve solenoids may have failed. If the igniter doesn't glow, it may need replacement.
Flame sensor: This safety device confirms the burner lit successfully. A faulty sensor can shut off gas flow even when everything else is working.
🔧 When to Call a Professional
Any repairs involving gas components should be handled by a licensed gas fitter. For electric dryers, if you're not comfortable working with electrical components, it's safer to call a technician.
Problem: Clothes Take Too Long to Dry
If your dryer runs and heats but cycles take much longer than they used to, airflow restriction is the most likely culprit.
Clean the Lint Filter
A clogged lint filter is the number one cause of extended drying times. Remove and clean the filter, and if it hasn't been deep cleaned recently, wash it with soapy water to remove fabric softener residue that blocks airflow.
Check the Exhaust Vent (Vented Dryers)
Go outside and check the vent while the dryer is running. You should feel strong airflow. If airflow is weak, lint has accumulated in the duct and needs cleaning. You can use a dryer vent cleaning kit or hire a professional.
Inspect the Lint Trap Housing
Lint bypasses the filter and accumulates in the housing over time. Use a vacuum with a crevice attachment to clean this area thoroughly.
Don't Overload
An overstuffed dryer restricts airflow and extends drying time significantly. Clothes need room to tumble freely. Reduce load size and see if times improve.
Check the Blower Wheel
The blower wheel moves air through the dryer. If it's clogged with lint, cracked, or wobbling on its shaft, airflow suffers. This requires accessing the dryer's interior.
Problem: Dryer Makes Unusual Noises
Clothes dryers make some noise during operation, but new or unusual sounds often indicate developing problems.
Thumping or Banging
Often caused by items in the load—check pockets for coins, keys, or other objects hitting the drum. A persistent thump without objects present may indicate worn drum support rollers or a damaged belt.
Squealing or Squeaking
Usually indicates worn bearings or rollers that need lubrication or replacement. A failing drive belt can also squeal before it breaks entirely.
Grinding or Scraping
Metal-on-metal sounds suggest components are rubbing where they shouldn't. This could be worn drum glides, damaged bearings, or foreign objects caught in the drum seals. Stop using the dryer and investigate before the problem worsens.
Humming Without Drum Rotation
The motor is trying to run but something is preventing drum rotation. This could be a broken belt, seized bearings, or a jammed blower wheel.
💡 Isolate the Source
Run an empty dryer to help identify noise sources. If the noise stops without clothes, the issue may be load-related (unbalanced items, objects in pockets). If noise continues, it's a mechanical problem.
Problem: Dryer Gets Too Hot
An excessively hot dryer is both inefficient and potentially dangerous. Clothes may be damaged, and fire risk increases.
Restricted Airflow
The most common cause of overheating is restricted exhaust. When hot air can't escape, it builds up in the drum. Clean the lint filter, exhaust duct, and external vent thoroughly.
Cycling Thermostat
This component regulates temperature by cycling the heating element on and off. If it fails, the element may run continuously, overheating the dryer.
Heating Element Problems
A shorted heating element can generate excessive heat. If the element housing contacts other metal components, it may not cycle off properly.
Problem: Dryer Stops Mid-Cycle
Overheating Protection
Dryers have safety features that stop operation if temperatures get too high. If your dryer stops and restarts after cooling down, overheating is likely. Address airflow restrictions.
Motor Overheating
An aging motor may overheat and stop, then restart once cooled. This often indicates the motor is failing and will need replacement soon.
Door Switch
An intermittent door switch can cause the dryer to stop as if the door opened. If the switch is failing, it may need replacement.
Problem: Dryer Leaves Marks on Clothes
Black or Grey Marks
Usually caused by worn drum seals or felt that's leaving residue. Inspect the seals around the drum edges for wear or damage. Buildup on the drum lifters (the raised ridges inside) can also transfer to clothes.
Brown or Rust Marks
May indicate rust forming on drum components. Check the drum interior for rust spots and address before they spread. Some drums can be cleaned and treated; severe rust may require drum replacement.
Residue Transfer
If you've dried items with grease, oil, or uncured ink, residue may remain in the drum and transfer to subsequent loads. Clean the drum interior with a mild detergent and dry old towels to absorb residue.
When to Replace vs Repair
✓ Repair vs Replace Guidelines
Generally worth repairing:
- Dryer is less than 7-8 years old
- Repair cost is less than 50% of replacement cost
- Issue is a common, straightforward fix
- The dryer is a high-quality model
Consider replacing if:
- Dryer is over 10-12 years old
- Major component failure (motor, drum, control board)
- Multiple issues occurring simultaneously
- It's an inefficient model and energy costs are high
- Parts are no longer available
Preventive Measures
Many dryer problems are preventable with proper maintenance:
- Clean the lint filter after every load
- Have exhaust ducts cleaned annually
- Don't overload the dryer
- Check pockets before drying
- Ensure proper installation with adequate clearance
- Use appropriate heat settings for each load
- Address unusual sounds or behaviours promptly
By maintaining your dryer properly and addressing small issues before they become major problems, you can extend your appliance's lifespan significantly and avoid costly emergency repairs or replacements.