Dryer vent repair and maintenance is the likely cure for most clothes dryer problems. The dryer vent system is responsible for providing adequate airflow which is the most important function for a clothes dryer to work efficiently. Dryer lint build-up in dryer ducts is the most common cause of mechanical problems associated with clothes dryers.
There are several other common things that can prevent a clothes dryer from working properly. Here is a guide for troubleshooting dryer problems:
The Dryer won’t Start
Don’t get me wrong; this may sound lame, but check to see if the dryer is plugged in. Also, check the circuit breaker or fuse. Many homeowners have been embarrassed when the technician comes in and bills them for a service call when all they had to do was plug the dryer in. There are reasons the dryer could have been unplugged; maybe you were doing some spring cleaning and the cord was in the way or it came loose when you were sweeping behind the dryer. Cats seem to like to go where they shouldn’t; it’s possible the cat brushed by and the cord came loose.
Check the timer to see if it is working; you should be able to hear it clicking as it moves. Check the start switch for loose connections or broken wires. Make sure the door closes properly to engage the door switch.
Drum Turns but no Heat
Check to be sure the gas is on. Yes, this is another simple, obvious solution that could save you some money. Make sure the door seal fits tight; check for signs of wear. Check the thermostat
Dryer Runs – Drum doesn’t Turn
The door must close properly so the switch is engaged. Also be sure the dryer isn’t overloaded. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, the drum belt could be loose or the bearings might be worn. The manual should have instructions on how to tighten or replace the belt. While you’re checking the belt, look for other items that could be rubbing against the drum.
The Dryer makes loud Thumping or Scraping Noises
There are a number of things that can cause this problem, including a loose drum belt, worn bearings or the drum support roller. Worn bearing can cause sparks inside the dryer; this could be a fire hazard.
Clothes take Longer to Dry
This is a very common problem that eventually happens with most dryers; but do not be fooled into thinking your dryer is worn out and needs to be replaced. This is a myth; there is most likely nothing wrong with the dryer. The problem is lint build-up in the dryer ducts; this is a fire hazard. The dryer needs to be pulled away from the wall and the dryer duct needs to be cleaned. Lint blockages in the dryer vent system will prevent the dryer from expelling hot air; the heat is trapped in the system and the combustible lint catches fire.
Lint can also be built up around the dryer drum, on the motor or heating element. Manufacturers recommend professional annual dryer vent cleaning to be sure your clothes dryer is working safely and efficiently.
Always unplug the dryer before attempting to take it apart to check for problems. If you are unable to diagnose or fix the problem yourself then you need to call a professional.
In most cases, simple dryer vent repairs or a good dryer vent cleaning will solve problems with clothes dryers. Inadequate dryer vent systems are the cause of most dryer malfunctions; failure to clean dryer vents in the number one cause of dryer fires. Most dryer vent cleaning specialists can do the simple repairs like tightening belts and pulleys or replacing bearings to give you peace of mind and save you a lot of money in appliance repair and energy cost.
Rhonda Nole of Dryer Vent Wizard provides dryer vent cleaning, dryer vent repair and installation for consumers in the Greater North Bay area of California. She also spends time explaining proper dryer vent maintenance to her customers to help them prevent dryer fires and save money on energy bills. Read more articles by Rhonda at http://www.northerncaliforniadryervent.com/
Dryer Vent Repair Santa Rosa, California 707.326.7171