Common Tumble Dryer Problems and How Engineers Fix Them
Tumble dryers are one of those modern conveniences that most of us can’t imagine living without—especially in our damp climate. When they stop working properly, wet washing can quickly pile up. Fortunately, most common tumble dryer faults can be diagnosed and repaired by an experienced appliance engineer like the experts from the Domestic Appliance Doctor based in Trowbridge, Wiltshire, saving you the cost and hassle of buying a replacement.
We’ve picked the brains of a tumble dryer repair specialist to find out about some of the tumble dryer issues that householders most frequently encounter, what causes them, and how professionals go about fixing them.
Six of the Best Tumble Dryer Problems You May Encounter
- The Tumble Dryer Isn’t Heating Up
A tumble dryer not heating is one of the most common complaints. You might find that your clothes come out damp even after a full cycle, or the drum feels cool to the touch.
There are several possible reasons for this. The heating element itself might have failed, which stops the dryer from producing warm air. Alternatively, a faulty thermostat or thermal fuse could be cutting off the heat to prevent overheating. Blocked vents or lint filters can also reduce airflow and cause the dryer to overheat and shut down the heater as a safety measure.
The Fix:
When engineers fix a tumble dryer not heating, they usually start by testing the electrical continuity of the heating element and thermostats. If one of these components is faulty, it can be replaced relatively quickly. They’ll also clean out the lint filters, ducts and vents to ensure proper airflow – a vital part of both performance and safety.
- The Drum Isn’t Turning
If your tumble dryer drum doesn’t rotate, the machine can’t dry clothes efficiently, even if it’s still heating up. This issue can often be traced to a snapped or worn drive belt. Over time, the belt that turns the drum can stretch or break due to regular wear and tear.
The Fix:
A professional dryer repair technician will remove the top or rear panel to inspect the belt and motor pulley. Replacing the belt is a fairly straightforward job for an appliance engineer but it can be tricky for a DIYer, as the dryer’s internal components are tightly packed. Occasionally, the problem may also lie with the motor itself or the start capacitor, which are parts best left to a trained engineer to test and replace safely.
- The Dryer Keeps Stopping Mid-Cycle
If your tumble dryer repeatedly cuts out before finishing a cycle, it could be a sign that it’s overheating. This might be caused by poor ventilation, a clogged lint trap, or a failing thermostat. In condenser models, it can also happen if the condenser unit or water collection tank is full or blocked.
The Fix:
An engineer will begin by checking for blockages and cleaning all airways and filters. If those are clear, they’ll test the thermostats and sensors. Sometimes, simply cleaning out a blocked condenser or replacing a faulty sensor restores the dryer to full working order.
- Unusual Noises or Vibrations
Strange rattles, squeaks, or bangs emanating from your tumble dryer can be alarming, but they’re often due to minor issues. Common culprits include objects trapped in the drum (like coins or buttons), worn drum bearings, or a loose fan blade.
The Fix:
During a professional dryer repair, the engineer will listen carefully to identify the source of the noise. They may remove the back panel to access the bearings or fan housing and replace any worn components. Tightening loose screws and fittings can also silence a noisy machine. Regular cleaning and maintenance are the best ways to avoid noise issues developing in the first place.
- Clothes Taking Too Long to Dry
If your dryer seems to be running forever but clothes still come out damp, it’s likely struggling with airflow. Blocked vents, lint build-up, or a dirty condenser can all slow down drying times. In vented models, the external vent hose might also be kinked or obstructed.
The Fix:
An engineer will check for and clear any blockages, then test the airflow using a simple meter. They’ll also make sure the sensors are reading moisture levels correctly. In some cases, recalibrating or replacing a moisture sensor can make the dryer perform like new again.
- The Dryer Won’t Start at All
When the tumble dryer refuses to power on, it can be anything from a simple power issue to a faulty door switch or control board.
The Fix:
Engineers start with the basics—checking the plug, fuse and socket—before moving on to internal testing.
If the power supply is fine, they’ll test safety switches such as the door interlock, which prevents the dryer from running unless the door is fully closed. In more advanced cases, the main control board may need to be repaired or replaced.
Advice for Preventing Tumble Dryer Problems
To reduce the chance of faults developing and extend the life of your tumble dryer as long as possible, it’s important to perform simple maintenance regularly. Tumble Dryer repair engineers recommend that you:
- Clean the lint filter after every use – this keeps airflow unrestricted and reduces fire risk.
- Check and clean vents – especially on vented dryers, where external ducts can clog with fluff.
- Empty the water tank – for condenser and heat pump models, after each cycle.
- Don’t overload – too many clothes can strain the motor and reduce drying efficiency.
Help with Broken Appliances in Wiltshire
If your tumble dryer has stopped heating, isn’t turning, or just isn’t performing as it should, it’s time to call in the experts. The Domestic Appliance Doctor provides reliable tumble dryer repairs in Wiltshire’s county town of Trowbridge and the surrounding area. Their experienced engineers can diagnose and repair most makes and models quickly and affordably.
They also cover the nearby towns of Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Warminster, and Westbury.
The Domestic Appliance Doctor is available to fix a wide range of other domestic appliances, including dishwashers, washing machines, electric ovens, hobs and cookers, and even vacuum cleaners. Follow the link to see all their appliance repair services.