Residential Dryers

Dryer Won't Start

  • Troubleshooting

    Video Tutorial

    One of the most common reasons for a dryer that refuses to start is a broken door switch. The video below shows how to replace it. If your issue isn't caused by this switch, continue below for more troubleshooting tips.


    Note: The information here is general and may not be specific to your machine. If you need help with choosing the correct parts for your model, you can contact us using the tech support form here or calling our parts support team at 1-323-490-1805. If you leave a message, we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

    Troubleshooting

    Is the power cord plugged into a grounded outlet?

    Plug the cord into an outlet.

    Are you using an extension cord?

    Don't use one. Instead, plug the unit directly into a grounded outlet.

    Has a circuit breaker tripped or has a fuse blown?

    Check to see if either of those issues came up. If a circuit breaker has tripped, reset it. If it's a blown fuse, replace it. Call an electrician if you need assistance.

    Is the dryer door closed?

    The dryer has a door switch that prevents the machine from operating with the door open. Make sure the door is closed completely.

    Is the lint panel/drawer open?

    Confirm that the lint screen is inserted and closed.


    Door Switch

    Important: Make sure you've unplugged your dryer before starting any electrical tests.

    Your dryer is equipped with a door switch, which prevents the machine from operating with the door open. If the door is closed but the machine still doesn't work, you may have a faulty door switch.

    The door switch looks like a little button that protrudes from the door opening. Test it by pushing it. You should hear a click. If it clicks, it could still be broken. You'll need to test it with a multimeter. To do this, you might have to remove the front panel so you can access the part.


    Start Button

    If it's not the door switch, next check the Start button. This can be the timer knob that you push in, or a separate button on the dryer control panel. Pressing the button sends power to the motor, which gets the machine going.

    In order to test the Start switch, you will need to remove the control panel of the dryer. And then use your multimeter to see if it's working properly. If not, you'll have to replace it.


    Thermal Fuse

    The next part to inspect is the thermal fuse. The thermal fuse is a safety device that prevents your dryer from getting too hot. If the dryer gets too hot, the fuse will blow, and no more power will go to the machine.

    You'll need to remove the back panel to get to this fuse. Take a look at it, and if it's blown, replace it. While this should get your dryer going again, you'll still want to find out why the dryer got so hot in the first place. Two common causes are poor ventilation or a broken circulation fan.


Dryer Takes Too Long to Dry

  • Troubleshooting

    Video Tutorial


    Note: The information here is general and may not be specific to your machine. If you need help with choosing the correct parts for your model, you can contact us using the tech support form here or calling our parts support team at 1-323-490-1805. If you leave a message, we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

    Troubleshooting

    Is the lint screen/filter clogged?

    Remove the lint screen and clean it. Reinsert. Be sure to clean the lint filter after every use.

    Is anything blocking the ventilation system?

    Check the vents and ducting to make sure nothing is obstructing the exhaust.

    Are the clothes too wet after washing?

    The washing might simply be dialed in to the wrong setting. Make sure the washer is set appropriately for the load size. For example, if you use the normal wash speed for an oversize load, the washer may not spin fast enough to remove water, which will increase the necessary drying time.

    Is the dryer too full?

    Dry only one load of clothes at a time.

    Is the dryer not full enough?

    If there aren't enough clothes in the dryer and the dryer isn't level, the clothes could be resting in the back of the machine. If you're drying just one article of clothing, add a few more items to ensure proper tumbling.


    Thermal Fuse

    The thermal fuse prevents the dryer from getting too hot by interrupting the power supply. But once it's blown, the dryer won't operate without a replacement. Check the fuse, and if it's blown, remove it and install a new one.


    Heating Element

    The heating element is a wire coil in a metal chamber, and is what generates the heat for the dryer. If the heating element is faulty, there won't be any heat.

    To access the part, you'll need to remove the rear panel. Use your multimeter to test for continuity. If it's no good, replace it.


    Cycling Thermostat and High Limit Thermostat

    The cycling thermostat's role is control the temperature inside the dryer. It does this by cycling the heating element on and off. Over time, the part can become faulty and then unable to maintain proper heat in the dryer drum.

    The cycling thermostat is typically located on the blower housing or another part in the internal ducting. Test the part for continuity with a multimeter, and if it's not working, replace the part.

    The high limit thermostat is similar to the thermal fuse in that it prevents the dryer from getting too hot. The high limit thermostat is tripped when the exhaust vent is blocked or restricted. This part isn't meant to cycle repeatedly like the cycling thermostat, so it will eventually fail. Use your multimeter to test the part, and replace it if necessary.


    Temperature Sensor

    Instead of a cycling thermostat, some dryers have a temperature sensor to maintain the correct heat inside the dryer. This part will adjust electrical resistance to the machine, depending on the temperature.

    To check this, you'll need to remove the part and use a multimeter to to test.


    Dryer Timer

    The dryer timer advances either incrementally or sporadically, depending on the cycle you have running. On a timed cycle, it'll advance bit by bit. But on an automatic cycle, it's normal for the timer to move sporadically.

    It's possible for a dryer timer to wear out. The timer connects to the dryer motor and heat circuit, so if the timer wears out, the dryer may not produce enough heat to dry your load. Test your timer for continuity with a multimeter, and replace it if you find it's defective.


    Burner System

    The igniter, radiant sensor, gas control valve, and coils work together to make up the burner system.

    The igniter heats up and ignites the gas, which produces the heat needed to dry your load of clothes. The igniter is found inside the dryer, near the gas valve burner tube. It can be shaped like a coil, or flat, depending on your dryer make and model. They're fragile, so be very careful when testing it.

    The radiant sensor measures heat from the igniter or burner, and controls the gas valve. It'll have the valve release more gas when more heat is needed, and if it's defective, your dryer won't get hot enough to dry your clothes.

    Use your multimter on each of these three parts to check for continuity. If any are defective, replace the part.


Dryer Won't Stop

  • Troubleshooting

    Note: The information here is general and may not be specific to your machine. If you need help with choosing the correct parts for your model, you can contact us using the tech support form here or calling our parts support team at 1-323-490-1805. If you leave a message, we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

    Troubleshooting

    Is the exhaust vent blocked?

    Good air flow is important for the dryer to work correctly. Make sure the vents are clear of debris such as lint, so that the exhaust can exit freely. Poor ventilation will increase the necessary drying time considerably.

    Is the dryer set to "no heat"?

    If using a no heat setting, drying will take longer to complete.


    Door Switch

    Important: Unplug the dryer from its power source before starting any inspection or repair work.

    The door switch prevents the dryer from running with the door open, so if the dryer run with an open door, it's likely this is the cause.


    Cycling Thermostat

    The cycling thermostat cycles the heat on and off to maintain the proper temperature inside, and it advances your dryer timer when the cycle is set to automatic. If the dryer won't stop, it's possible the cycling thermostat is defective and cycling off the heat too early. And then this causes the dryer to keep running as it senses the clothes aren't dry yet.


    Timer

    Besides counting down the dry time, the timer controls the dryer motor and heat circuit. So if the timer is defective, it might not have a good contact to the motor or heat to shut either one off. The timer should be tested for continuity with a multimeter, and replaced if found to be faulty.


Dryer Stops Turning Mid-Cycle

  • Troubleshooting

    Video Tutorial


    Note: The information here is general and may not be specific to your machine. If you need help with choosing the correct parts for your model, you can contact us using the tech support form here or calling our parts support team at 1-323-490-1805. If you leave a message, we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

    Troubleshooting

    Is the front of the dryer blocked by anything?

    Avoid placing anything in front of the dryer, as it draws in air from the bottom front. If the intake is blocked, the dryer can overheat, which will trigger the safety devices in the dryer, shutting it off.

    Is the dryer level?

    If the dryer isn't level and tipped toward the rear, your clothes can collect in the back, too far from the sensor rods. And if the sensor rods don't detect moisture, the dryer will turn off thinking the clothes are already dry. Adjusting the level of your dryer will solve this.

    Is the dryer on an automatic setting?

    When the dryer is on auto-mode, the timer may advance only sporadically. This is normal behavior.


    Moisture Sensor

    Important: Unplug the dryer from its power source before starting any inspection or repair work.

    The moisture sensor controls the dryer when it's set to automatic. The wetness of the clothes is measured by the sensors, and when there's no more moisture, the dryer shuts off.

    If the sensor is defective, it may cause the dryer to cycle off sooner than it should. Another reason for the sensor to not work is when fabric softener chemicals coat it. When coated, it can't detect the moisture in the clothes, and then the dryer will stop.


Dryer is Too Noisy

  • Troubleshooting

    Video Tutorial


    Note: The information here is general and may not be specific to your machine. If you need help with choosing the correct parts for your model, you can contact us using the tech support form here or calling our parts support team at 1-323-490-1805. If you leave a message, we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

    Troubleshooting

    Are there any foreign objects in the dryer, such as coins or toys?

    When loading your dryer, be careful not to include such items.

    Is the dryer level? Is anything leaning on the machine?

    If the dryer isn't level, the tumbling action can produce vibrations, making for a noisy dryer. Objects leaning on the dryer can also cause this. Make sure the dryer is level and nothing is resting on it.

    Have you checked for loose screws?

    Loose screws can cause a squeaking sounds. Tighten them.

    Are these noises part of normal operation?

    Your dryer won't be completely silent. There will be the humming sound of the exhaust system, the timer ticking down, the drum rotating, and the clicking of the heating element cycling on and off. These are normal. Zipper and buttons on your clothes can also be noisemakers during the dry cycle.


    Dryer Belt

    Important: Unplug the dryer from its power source before starting any inspection or repair work.

    The dryer's drum is rotating by a belt, and over time, the belt can become hard and brittle, and pieces of it can start to come apart. When this happens, the rotation can make the belt thump against the dryer cabinet.

    You can inspect the belt by removing the front and/or top panel of your dryer. If the belt looks worn or broken, replacing it should fix the noise problem.


    Idler Pulley

    The idler pulley is the part that keeps the tension on the drive belt. It keeps the belt from sliding the motor and drum. It's usually the part that gets adjusted when the belt needs adjusting or replacement.

    This pulley rotates very fast during operation, so it can get worn down before other parts. As it wears, friction increases, and this can cause a squeaking sound.

    The idler pulley is found near the drive motor, at the bottom of the dryer. You'll need to remove the front panel and/or the front access panel to access it. Remove the belt and turn the idler pulley. It should rotate freely. If it doesn't, or if there are signs of damage, replace the part.


    Drum Rollers

    Another commonly worn part is the drum roller. This part supports the drum and over will wear out. When one or more rollers are worn, the drum won't turn as freely, and the increased friction can make a squeaking or squealing sound.

    To inspect the rollers, the drum will have to be removed. If any of the rollers are worn, it's best to replace the whole set at once.


    Blower Wheel

    The blower wheel is a plastic part that draws air from the heating chamber to the drum and exhaust. It's attached to the motor, and normal wear will loosen it. If it's not securely attached, noise is generated by the wobbling part as it turns during operation.


Dryer Won't Turn

  • Troubleshooting

    Video Tutorial


    Note: The information here is general and may not be specific to your machine. If you need help with choosing the correct parts for your model, you can contact us using the tech support form here or calling our parts support team at 1-323-490-1805. If you leave a message, we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

    Troubleshooting

    Is the dryer overloaded?

    Loading the dryer with too heavy a load can keep the dryer from tumbling. The excess weight can make the dryer belt slip. Try removing some clothes and trying again.


    Dryer Belt

    Important: Unplug the dryer from its power source before starting any inspection or repair work.

    All dryers have a belt that rotates the drum. The dryer belt wraps around the drum, tension pulley, and motor. Over time, the belt can become worn down or break. When that happens, the motor is unable to send power to the drum, so even if the dryer is producing heat and the motor is turning, nothing is rotating the drum.

    Inspect the belt for wear and damage. It should be soft and flexible, with good grip. If it's hard and slippery, it's too worn down and isn't maintaining the necessary friction to turn the drum. If it's worn or broken, replacing the belt should solve the problem.


    Idler Pulley

    The dryer belt is kept tight by wrapping it over the idler pulley. This pulley maintains the tension needed for the belt to grip the drum and turn it. It rotates at a high speed and goes through normal wear. Over time, it can get too worn down, and either break or need adjusting. Usually, when this part breaks, it'll make a squealing sound during operation. But the other symptom of a bad idler pulley is the drum doesn't rotate or rotates very slowly.

    After inspecting the dryer belt, take time to check out the idler pulley. Remove the belt, and spin the pulley. It should spin freely on the shaft without any wobbling. If it doesn't, replace the part.


    Door Switch

    The door switch keeps the dryer from operating when the door is open. If the door is closed and the dryer still won't start, the switch might be faulty.

    The switch can be tested for continuity with a multimeter. If the switch is defective, you'll need to replace it.


Dryer is Too Hot

  • Troubleshooting

    Video Tutorial


    Note: The information here is general and may not be specific to your machine. If you need help with choosing the correct parts for your model, you can contact us using the tech support form here or calling our parts support team at 1-323-490-1805. If you leave a message, we'll get back to you within 24 hours.

    Troubleshooting

    Is the dryer vent clogged?

    Lint buildup and other obsctructions could keep the dryer from venting properly. Heat can buildup, causing the top of the dryer to get very hot. Clear the vents of any and all debris.

    Did you set the correct setting for your load?

    Make sure you're using the correct heat setting for your fabrics of the load you're drying.

    Is there anything stacked in front of the dryer?

    Many dryers have an air intake at the front of the machine. Make sure not to block his area, or the dryer won't be able to draw in fresh air to operate properly.

    Is the dryer level?

    If the dryer is not level, clothes can collect toward one part of the dryer, making it hard for the moisture sensors to measure your clothes' dryness. Make sure your dryer is level for best results.


    Exhaust Vent

    The ventilation system of your dryer must be clean and clear for the dryer to work properly. If airflow is restricted, hot air will build up inside your dryer, causing excessive heat.

    The excessive heat will often trip the high limit thermostat, which is a safety device that prevents your dryer from getting too hot. This will lead to longer drying times. Make sure to inspect and clean the vents regularly.


    High Limit Thermostat

    Important: Remove the dryer's power source before beginning any tests or repairs. Unplug your dryer.

    For safety, the high limit thermostat is tripped when the dryer gets too hot. If the dryer doesn't shut off despite excessive heat, there might be problem with your high limit thermostat. This part isn't meant to cycle on and off like the cycling thermostat, so over time and repeated activations could wear it down. And when it's no longer working as expected, it can allow your dryer's temperature to rise to dangerous levels.

    After verifying there's no issue with the ventilation, you'll want to test this part. You'll need to remove the top and front panels to access this part. Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If you find this to be the cause, simply replace the part.


    Cycling Thermostat

    The cycling thermostat works by turning the dryer's heating element or gas burner on and off, depending on the temperature. This part keeps the dryer running at the correct temperature. If defective, the dryer may be allowed to get too hot, which is unsafe and can damage your clothes.

    If it's not the vents or high limit thermostat, you can test this part next. Like the high limit thermostat, you can access it by remove the front and side panel of the machine. Then use a multimeter to test.


    Heating Element

    If the heating element becomes faulty, it could produce heat continuously, which leads to excessive heating. If you've tested the cycling and high limit thermostat and those are fine, you'll want to inspect this part.

    The heating element comes in many forms, depending on the manufacturer. Generally, they are made with a wire coil. The way this works is, the coil receives an electrical current, but resists it. The resistance causes the coil to heat, and this heat is used to dry your clothes.

    To inspect this part, you'll have to disassemble the dryer so you can access it. Remember to disconnect your dryer from power before doing anything else.

    First, check that no coils are touching. Then, you can use your multimeter to test for resistance. With the multimeter set to Rx1 Resistance, touch each end of the element with both probes. If the meter reads infinite resistance, the part's no longer working properly and needs replacement.