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How to Troubleshoot Clothes Dryers

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By eHow Contributing Writer
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If your clothes dryer is on the fritz, don't call the repairman just yet. Instead, follow these steps to see if you can remedy the problem yourself.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Instructions
  1. Step 1

    Make sure the appliance is plugged in. If the dryer won't start, check that the dryer door is securely closed. If the machine still doesn't work, check for a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker. If a faulty motor is the problem, call for professional service.

  2. Step 2

    Check whether the controls are set at the appropriate heat settings if the motor runs without producing heat. If the problem turns out to be a faulty burner, call your repair man.

  3. Step 3

    Be sure the controls are set for the appropriate load if your clothes take too long to dry. Clean the lint filter. Check the outside ducting for obstructions. Always sort similar-weight items, putting heavy things together and keeping lighter items separate. Some large loads of heavy fabrics may take longer to dry.

  4. Step 4

    Check to see that the temperature control is set at the appropriate setting if the drying temperature seems too hot. Make sure the lint screen is clean and the exhaust duct and vent are not blocked.

  5. Step 5

    Follow the garment care labels carefully if some garments have shrunk. Some items may shrink in the dryer. A no-heat setting may work best. Shrinkage can occur in certain knit fabrics.

  6. Step 6

    Remove clothes as soon as the cycle stops and hang them. Permanent press items become wrinkled if you leave them in the dryer too long after the cycle stops. Loading too many items in the dryer at once can also cause wrinkling. Even too few items can cause wrinkling; add similar items to ensure proper tumbling. Set the water level at an appropriate level for the load. Use fabric softener to help minimize wrinkling.

  7. Step 7

    Check that the appliance has not "walked" and is on a level surface if the dryer begins making unusual noise. Look for any loose paneling or trim. You need to schedule repair service for a worn drive belt, rollers, drum shaft or a loose or obstructed blower.

Tips & Warnings
  • Heavy permanent press items should not be loaded with lighter items. All permanent press items should be washed separately from regular laundry.
  • Run the garments once more through the Permanent Press setting or the de-wrinkle cycle to remove wrinkles. You also can rinse them, and then run them again. Try using a commercial de-wrinkling spray on the garments before running them through the de-wrinkle cycle.

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