Dryer Troubleshooting: Fast Fixes for Everyday Issues

If your tumble dryer is acting up, you don’t need to panic. Most problems are caused by simple things you can check yourself before dialing a repair service. Below are the most common complaints and step‑by‑step tricks to get your dryer humming again.

1. Dryer Won’t Heat – What to Check First

Cold air blowing out of the drum is the classic “won’t dry” sign. Start with the obvious: clear the lint filter and clean the vent hose. A clogged vent makes the dryer overheat, trips the thermal fuse, and shuts off the heating element. Detach the hose, vacuum the inside, and make sure the external vent flap opens freely.

If the vent is clear, locate the heating element (usually a metal coil at the back of the dryer). With the dryer unplugged, visually inspect it for broken coils or black spots. A broken element will need replacement – it’s cheap and easy for most models.

Still no heat? Test the thermal fuse with a multimeter. The fuse should read continuity; if it’s blown, replace it. Most fuses are under $10 and come with a simple clip‑on design.

2. Dryer Won’t Spin or Stops Mid‑Cycle

When the drum stays still, the drive belt is the usual suspect. Pull the dryer out, remove the front or rear panel (depending on your model), and inspect the belt for cracks or slack. If it’s worn, snap it off the motor pulley and replace it with a new belt that matches your dryer’s size.

If the belt looks fine, the issue could be the drum rollers or the motor itself. Spin the drum by hand – it should turn smoothly. Squeaky or gritty movement means the rollers need lubrication or replacement. Motor problems are trickier; listen for a humming sound without drum movement. That often means the motor’s start capacitor has failed and should be swapped by a pro.

3. Noise, Vibration, or Smells

Loud thumping usually points to a broken drum support or a worn drum bearing. Check that the drum is centered and that the drum support rollers spin freely. Replace any cracked rollers – they’re inexpensive and a quick fix.

Burning smells? Turn the dryer off immediately and inspect the heating element for a broken coil. A scorched element can cause a fire risk and must be swapped out right away.

4. Reading Error Codes

Modern dryers flash error codes when something goes wrong. Find the code list in your user manual (or search online with your model number). Common codes like “F1” or “E3” often mean a thermostat or sensor issue. While some codes can be reset by unplugging the dryer for five minutes, many require a sensor replacement. If the same code pops up after a reset, it’s time for a part swap.

5. When to Call a Professional

DIY fixes cover about 70 % of dryer woes. If you’ve checked the lint, vent, belt, and fuses and the dryer still misbehaves, call a qualified repair tech. Look for a local service that knows Nuneaton appliances – they can order genuine parts fast and have the right safety certifications.

Remember, safety first. Always unplug the dryer before opening panels, and never force a broken part. With these checks, most dry‑related headaches disappear, saving you time and a repair bill.

Got a specific error code or a stubborn problem? Share it in the comments, and we’ll help you troubleshoot further.