Dryer repair
Most dryer problems come down to heat, airflow or the drum drive, and airflow problems are also a fire safety issue.
Common dryer problems
- No heat (electric): blown thermal fuse, heating element, high-limit thermostat, or one leg of the 240-volt power (a half-tripped breaker)
- No heat (gas): igniter, gas valve coils, flame sensor, thermal fuse, or the gas supply valve is closed
- Takes too long: clogged or crushed vent, lint buildup inside the cabinet, failing heating component
- Squealing or thumping: drum rollers, idler pulley, belt, drum glides
- Won't start: door switch, thermal fuse, start switch, belt switch, control board
Vent safety first
Clothes dryers are a leading source of home laundry fires, and the main cause is failing to clean them. Clean the lint screen every load, and have the full vent run, from the dryer to the outside hood, cleaned regularly. Replace thin foil or vinyl transition ducts with rigid or semi-rigid metal ducts. If the outside vent flap barely opens while the dryer is running, airflow is restricted.
Our guide dryer not heating? 7 things to check walks through safe checks.
When to call
If you smell burning, see scorch marks, or the dryer stops heating after you've cleaned the vent, stop using it and call for service.
Related services
Refrigerator repair
Not cooling, leaking, noisy, or freezer not freezing.
Washer repair
Won't drain, won't spin, leaking, or stuck door lock.
Dishwasher repair
Not draining, not cleaning, leaking, or won't start.
Areas
Northridge
Neighborhoods around CSUN and the north-central Valley.
Granada Hills
Large ranch-style homes in the northern Valley.
Porter Ranch
Newer master-planned homes in the northwest Valley foothills.
Chatsworth
Homes and ranch properties in the northwest Valley.
North Hills
Single-family homes and apartments in the central-north Valley.
Mission Hills
Historic neighborhoods near Mission San Fernando.