Tumble Dryer Troubleshooting: Simple Fixes You Can Do Today

If your tumble dryer won’t spin, won’t heat, or just takes forever to dry, you’re probably wondering what’s wrong. The good news is most issues are easy to spot and fix without calling a pro. Below you’ll find the most common signs of trouble and step‑by‑step fixes you can try right now.

Common Signs Your Dryer Needs Attention

It won’t heat. Clothes come out damp even after a full cycle. This usually means a clogged lint filter, a blocked vent, or a faulty heating element.

The drum won’t turn. If the drum is stuck, the motor coupler might be broken or the belt could be snapped.

It’s noisy. Rattling or squealing can point to a worn drum support roller, a loose fan, or debris stuck in the blower.

Long drying times. Even if the dryer heats, a restricted airflow caused by a clogged vent or lint trap will make cycles drag on.

It stops mid‑cycle. Overheating, a bad thermostat, or an electrical issue can cause the machine to shut down unexpectedly.

Step‑by‑Step Fixes You Can Do at Home

1. Clean the lint filter and vent. Remove the lint screen, scrape off all lint, and wash the screen with warm soapy water. Next, locate the vent pipe at the back of the dryer, detach it, and use a vent brush or a long flexible vacuum hose to clear any blockage. Re‑attach the pipe securely.

2. Check the drum belt. Unplug the dryer and open the front panel (usually held by a few screws). Look for a thin, rubber belt wrapped around the drum and motor pulley. If it’s frayed or broken, replace it – they’re cheap and come with simple instructions.

3. Test the heating element. With the dryer unplugged, locate the heating element (often behind the back panel). Use a multimeter set to continuity; if the reading is infinite, the element is bad and needs swapping.

4. Inspect the motor and coupler. If the drum won’t turn, the motor may be seized or the plastic coupler connecting the motor to the drum could be cracked. Remove the coupler and look for signs of wear. A new coupler is inexpensive and restores rotation.

5. Clean the drum rollers and idler pulley. Spin the drum by hand; if it feels gritty, the rollers or idler may be dirty or worn. Wipe them clean with a cloth and, if they’re cracked, replace them.

6. Reset the dryer. Some models have a reset button on the control board. Press it for a few seconds after you’ve cleared any lint and checked the vent. This can clear error codes that caused the unit to stop.

After each fix, run a short test cycle with a small load. If the dryer still misbehaves, the problem may be electrical (like a faulty thermostat or thermal fuse). Those parts are best handled by a qualified technician, especially if you’re not comfortable working with wiring.

Regular maintenance goes a long way. Clean the lint filter after every use, check the vent every few months, and give the exterior a quick wipe‑down to keep dust out. A little effort now saves you time, money, and the hassle of a broken dryer during laundry day.

Got a dryer that still won’t cooperate after these steps? Give Glastonbury Appliance Repair Services a call. Our local technicians know tumble dryers inside out and can get yours back in shape fast, often at a price lower than a new machine.