If your dryer is making weird noises, taking forever to dry, or just won’t start, you’re not alone. Most tumble dryers develop a snag after a few years of use, but many of those hiccups are easy to diagnose and fix yourself. Below are the most common dryer problems, what causes them, and step‑by‑step checks you can do before you dial a repair service.
Cold clothes coming out of a dryer is a classic sign of a heating issue. The first thing to check is the power supply – a dryer needs a 240‑volt connection in the UK. Make sure the plug is firmly in the socket and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If power is good, the next suspect is the heating element. Pull the dryer out, unplug it, and locate the element (usually a long coil at the back). Look for any visible breaks or burnt spots. A multimeter set to resistance can confirm if the element is still good – a reading of infinite resistance means it’s broken and needs replacing.
When the dryer won’t start at all, the door switch is often to blame. The dryer won’t run if the door isn’t fully closed or if the latch sensor is stuck. Open the door, press the switch manually, and listen for a click. No click? The switch may need cleaning or replacement. Another common culprit is the thermal fuse – a safety device that shuts the dryer down if it overheats. Locate the fuse (usually near the exhaust vent), test it with a multimeter, and replace it if it shows no continuity.
Sometimes the motor itself is the issue. A humming sound with no drum movement points to a seized motor or a broken belt. Inspect the belt for cracks or fraying; a worn belt will slip and prevent the drum from turning. Replacing a belt is a quick DIY job – just follow the manufacturer’s guide, wrap the new belt around the drum, motor pulley, and tensioner, and you’re set.
If clothes are still damp after the cycle, the vent could be clogged. Lint builds up not only in the lint trap but also in the exhaust hose and vent outside. Disconnect the dryer, pull the vent hose away, and clear any lint with a vacuum or a long brush. Also check the lint filter – wash it with warm, soapy water regularly to keep airflow optimal.
Another hidden cause is the moisture sensor. Modern dryers have metal bars inside the drum that detect dampness. If they’re coated in residue, the dryer may think clothes are dry and stop early. Wipe the bars with a soft cloth and a bit of rubbing alcohol to restore proper sensing.
Most heating, start‑up, and vent issues can be handled with basic tools, but there are times you’ll need a professional. If you’ve tested the heating element, thermal fuse, and motor and everything checks out, the problem may be the control board or internal wiring – both require a qualified technician. Also, any gas‑fuel dryer should only be serviced by someone with the right certification.
Remember, safety comes first. Always unplug the dryer before you start any inspection, and never force a broken part. A quick routine – clean lint, check the power, test the element, and clear the vent – will keep most dryers running smoothly for years.
Got a dryer that’s still acting up after these steps? It might be time to call Bognor Regis Appliance Repair Experts. Our technicians know the ins and outs of tumble dryers and can get your laundry back on track without a long wait.
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