How to Open the Top of a Dryer
Opening the top of a dryer looks tricky, but it is not very difficult to do. With just a few steps you can lift the top off to gain access to any parts inside. Removing the top from a clothes dryer is fairly consistent for any model, but be sure to refer to your owner's manual for exact instructions regarding your model dryer. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Crescent wrench
- Screwdriver
- Small socket wrench set
- Putty knife
- Pliers
- Notepad
Instructions
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1
Unplug the electrical cord attached to the dryer from the wall outlet and place the cord out of the way.
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2
Turn the gas line valve closed if the dryer is a gas appliance and disconnect the gas line from the back of the dryer with a crescent wrench.
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3
Lift the lint cover open and remove the lint filter from the top of the dryer.
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4
Locate the screws on the inside, underneath the lint cover and remove them with a screwdriver.
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5
Turn the dryer around so you can access the back of the appliance easily and use a small socket wrench to unfasten the bolts holding the clips to the top and back of the dryer.
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6
Slide a putty knife underneath the top of the dryer along the side about 2 inches from the front until you find the locking clip under the top. Press down on the clip with the putty knife while pulling the dryer top up to dislodge it.
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7
Repeat step 6 on the opposite side of the dryer to loosen the top from the base.
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8
Lift the top of the dryer up and lean it back against a wall, then use a screwdriver and pair of pliers to disconnect the electrical wires from the top of the unit.
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9
Lift the top of the dryer off the unit completely and set it aside.
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Tips & Warnings
Before disconnecting the electrical wires running from the dryer to the top, make notes to remember which wires go to which connections.
Always unplug the dryer from the electrical source or gas line before attempting to remove the top of the appliance.
