How To Perform Dryer Maintenance

Have you noticed recently that your dryer is just not drying your clothing as quickly as it used to? It may not mean that you need a new unit; you may need to give your current model a tune-up. You should inspect your dryer once a year to make sure everything is running efficiently! This can save you money over time.

Note: To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug the dryer from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

Clean the Lint Trap

The lint trap at the front or top of your machine should be cleaned after each use. You should also wash the filter with warm, soapy water every few months.

Check the Vents

The condition and flow of your dryer's venting hose is the most important factor of your machine's efficiency. If the air flow is impeded or obstructed in any way, it could significantly slow down drying time. The machine may have shifted over time due to use, so check to make sure that the dryer isn't pushed too close to the wall so that it's pinching the hose. Also check that the inside of the vent is free of lint buildup and that the opening from the outside wall damper is not obstructed by plants or other objects. It's recommended that you clean the duct work at least once a year.

Did You Trip a Fuse?

Many household dryers use two fuses or circuit breakers, so check to see if one is tripped. One may be powering the dryer tumble, but the tripped circuit may not be supplying heat.

Check the Drum Belt

The drum belt is what makes the dryer drum rotate. Turn on your dryer and open the door to see if it's revolving. If it isn't, then the drum belt is slipping/broken or the idler pulley may be frozen.

Sort Your Clothing

The resolution to your dryer problem may be the amount and type of clothes you're loading into the machine. Here are a few extra things to keep in mind:

• Make sure that you're using the correct washer settings and that the spin cycle is removing enough water before you place your laundry into the dryer.
• Don't try to combine loads in the dryer and overload the machine.
• Don't put too few items in, or the clothing may not tumble correctly and instead just shift to the back.
• Don't put heavy items, like towels, in with lightweight items.

If Those Don't Work or You Need Repairs...

If the above methods don't work to dry your clothes, the heating element or thermostat may be to blame. Call in a serviceman to take a look. If you purchased your dryer at P.C. Richard & Son, we can come and inspect the unit. See our service page for more about product service and repair.