Dryer Troubleshooting: Fast Fixes for the Most Common Issues

If your dryer is acting up, you don’t need to panic or call a technician right away. Most problems are caused by something you can check in a few minutes. Below you’ll find the most common culprits and step‑by‑step ways to see if you can fix them yourself.

Why Your Dryer Might Not Be Working

Dryers fail in a handful of predictable ways: they won’t start, they don’t heat, they take forever to dry, or they start rattling like a washing machine. The usual suspects are power supply, lint buildup, vent blockage, a broken door switch, or a failed thermal fuse. Even if you own a gas dryer, the ignitor can be the weak link. Knowing which symptom you’re dealing with narrows down the cause quickly.

Simple Steps to Diagnose and Fix

1. Check the power. Plug another appliance into the same outlet to confirm the socket works. If you have a circuit breaker, make sure the dryer’s breaker isn’t tripped. Some models have a wall‑switch that can be accidentally turned off.

2. Clean the lint filter. A clogged filter reduces airflow and can overheat the dryer, causing it to shut off. Remove the filter, brush off lint, and wash it with warm water if it’s really dirty.

3. Inspect the vent hose. Pull the vent out from the back of the dryer and look for lint or debris. A blocked vent makes the dryer take longer to dry and can trigger a safety shut‑off. Use a vacuum hose or a dryer vent brush to clear it.

4. Test the door switch. The dryer won’t run if the door isn’t properly latched. Listen for a click when you close the door. If you don’t hear it, the switch may be stuck or broken – replace it for a few pounds.

5. Look at the thermal fuse. This one‑time safety device blows if the dryer overheats. Locate it on the exhaust duct (check your manual), pull it out, and test it with a multimeter. No continuity means it’s busted and needs swapping.

6. Check the drum belt and rollers. If the drum isn’t turning, the belt could be snapped or the rollers worn out. Open the dryer’s back panel, inspect the belt for fraying, and spin the rollers by hand. Replace any worn parts.

7. Examine the heating element or ignitor. Electric dryers use a coil; gas dryers have an ignitor. If the dryer runs but stays cool, the element or ignitor is likely faulty. These parts are cheap and replaceable, but you’ll need to disconnect power before working on them.

After you’ve run through these checks, fire up the dryer with a single damp towel. If it heats and tumbles, you’ve solved the problem. If not, it’s time to call a professional – especially for issues involving the main power board, motor, or gas connections.

Remember, regular maintenance prevents most breakdowns. Clean the lint filter after every load, clear the vent every few months, and give the drum a quick wipe down to stop lint buildup. With a little routine care, your dryer will stay reliable and you’ll avoid costly repair calls.