Tumble Dryer Faults - Keeping an Eye

Tumble dryers are a great convenience for homeowners, but faulty operation can lead to bills for servicing or even replacement. Keeping an eye on any potential issues is essential for maintaining an efficient dryer. This blog will discuss the common faults associated with tumble dryers and the importance of addressing these issues promptly.

When it comes to tumble dryers, the most common faults to watch out for include blocked vents, built up lint, or simply worn out or damaged parts. Blocked vents can lead to overheating and affect the drying process, while built up lint can lead to clothes remaining damp. Parts can become worn down or even broken over time, and this should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid potentially more expensive repairs and servicing costs.

Other warning signs to look out for include abnormal noises, reverse cycling, and unbalanced loads. Abnormal noises such as grinding or squealing can be a warning sign of a damaged drum or belt, and should be checked out by a qualified repair technician. Reverse cycling occurs when the dryer isn’t drying clothes and is instead forcing warm air out, and this is often a sign of a failed thermistor. Unbalanced loads can lead to the dryer shaking and can sometimes cause a motor to burn out, so always make sure to evenly distribute items across the drum.

Keeping an eye on your tumble dryer is essential to maintain efficiency and avoid more costly repairs or replacements. Although not every fault or warning sign needs to be immediately addressed, if neglected they can lead to potential damage and costly repairs or replacements. If you are ever in doubt, it is best to call a qualified repair technician to ensure your dryer remains in efficient condition.

Whether you need routine servicing or require more serious repairs, our Directory of Appliance Repair Technicians can help. Our directory contains professional and experienced technicians for all your appliance repair needs, so don’t hesitate to look for help today.

Troubleshooting Tips for Tumble Dryers

  1. What is the average lifespan for a tumble dryer? Generally, a tumble dryer should last for around 8 to 10 years with routine maintenance and care.

  2. What are some of the most common failures with tumble dryers? The most common faults with tumble dryers include damaged or blocked air vents, thermostats and heat elements no longer functioning, damaged or broken door sensors, and broken belts.

  3. What are some ways to prevent common faults with tumble dryers? To minimise the chance of faults, make sure that you keep the door and lint filter of the dryer clean. Clean the air vent regularly and replace the filter if necessary. Inspect the door and make sure it is tightly closed when using the machine.

  4. What is the best type of maintenance to keep a tumble dryer in good condition? To ensure the best performance of your dryer, it is recommended to schedule regular maintenance runs. This means that you’ll need to check the internal components and clean the lint filter after every use.

  5. What should I do if my tumble dryer isn’t heating up? The first thing to do if your tumble dryer isn’t heating is to check the thermostat and replace it if necessary. If that doesn’t fix the problem, then it’s likely that the heater element or the wiring to it may be damaged. In this case, you should call a qualified engineer.

Key Takeaways on Tumble Dryer Faults

  1. Be alert for blocked vents and build-up of lint which can affect drying process and leave clothes damp.
  2. Monitor parts in case of wear and tear or damage which should be addressed promptly to avoid more expensive repairs.
  3. Abnormal noises, reverse cycling and unbalanced loads are warning signs that should not be ignored.
  4. Routine servicing and repairs should be undertaken to maintain an efficient tumble dryer.
  5. Seek help from qualified repair technicians to ensure your dryer is in proper condition.