Tumble Dryer Repair Guides

A tumble dryer that cuts out whenever it wants to is no good for anyone – and it certainly won’t dry your clothes! Don’t panic though, it’s a rather common problem, especially with older appliances.

If your tumble dryer is cutting out, it could be due to a number of factors. Try the following steps to identify and remedy the problem.

• Check your filter – Many people don’t realise the importance of regularly cleaning out your tumble dryer’s filter. Unfortunately, if you let the lint and fluff build up it can cause your tumble dryer to overheat. As a safety precaution, your tumble dryer will then shut off to prevent a fire or further damage. To remedy this, make sure you know how to maintain a tumble dryer filter properly.
• Check the ventilation hose – Similarly to the filter, the ventilation hose can also become blocked over time, leading to the appliance overheating and cutting out. Make sure that the hose isn’t blocked or kinked and check that it isn’t obstructed or damaged.
• Take a look at the thermostat – The thermostat in your tumble dryer is responsible for regulating the temperature of the machine. If it’s faulty or becomes damaged, your tumble dryer may overheat and cut out. Thermostats can be replaced quite easily; however, if you’re not comfortable with this then contact an appliance repair specialist in your area.
• Check the motor – A faulty motor is another reason for your tumble dryer to cut out randomly. Compared to the other solutions in this list, a motor is quite a bit harder to replace yourself. It can be done, but we recommend leaving this repair to the experts.

A foul-smelling tumble dryer can become unbearable, fortunately, there are a number of actions you can take to get rid of the smell and prevent it from returning.

• Inspect the filter – A build-up of fluff and lint will occur over time if you’re not regularly cleaning it out. This can cause your tumble dryer to overheat which will generate a strong burning smell. Remove the filter and give it a thorough clean before allowing it to dry completely and putting it back in place.
• Check the drum – During cycles, loose items and debris like coins, buttons, and even socks, can get stuck in or around the drum. If these get too warm, they will smell strongly of burning. Take a good look at the drum and remove anything that you find.
• Take a look at the hose – The vent hose is responsible for carrying hot, moist air out of the dryer. If it’s clogged or kinked, it can cause the dryer to overheat and emit a burning smell. Check the vent hose for any obstructions and make sure it’s not kinked or damaged.
• Inspect the dryer’s interior – Over time, lint and debris can accumulate inside the dryer and cause a musty or burning smell. Use a vacuum or lint brush to clean the interior of the dryer thoroughly.
• Check the heating element – If your tumble dryer’s heating element is faulty or damaged, it can cause the dryer to overheat and emit a burning spell. If you are able to, test the element with a multimeter and replace it if necessary. If you don’t have the tools or ability, then it’s best to contact your local NAC technician!

A tumble dryer that doesn’t spin simply won’t dry your clothes as effectively – if at all! Here are some things you can try to fix your tumble dryer at home if it isn’t spinning properly.

• Check your door – It may sound silly, but check that your tumble dryer door is properly secured. If it’s not closed properly, the dryer will not spin.
• Inspect the belt – The belt is what drives the drum in the dryer, if it’s damaged or worn which is common, the drum won’t be able to spin. Unplug your dryer and open the door, look for the belt around the edge of the drum. If it appears loose, tatty, worn or broken then it will need replacing.
• Check the motor – If you’re confident the belt is fully intact and functioning properly but your dryer still won’t spin, then the motor could be at fault. Listen for the motor running, or feel to see if it’s hot. If it’s not running at all, or if it feels hot to the touch then it will need replacing. We recommend contacting your local appliance repair engineer at NAC for assistance.
• Take a look at the thermal fuse – The thermal fuse is a safety device in your tumble dryer that’s designed to shut off the appliance if it overheats. If the fuse has blown, the dryer won’t spin. You can usually tell if a fuse has blown just by looking at it, but if not you can use a multimeter to test its continuity. If the thermal fuse has blown, it will need replacing.

A tumble dryer that doesn’t heat up is no good for anyone! Fortunately, there are a few things you can check yourself to get your appliance back up and running again…

• Check the timer – Most tumble dryers run off of timers and if it isn’t set correctly or isn’t working properly, your appliance won’t heat up. If it’s faulty, it will need replacing.
• Check the thermostat – Possibly the most common reason why a tumble dryer won’t heat up; the thermostat. This part is responsible for regulating the temperature within your appliance. If it’s not working as it should then the dryer may not heat up at all. You can check if your thermostat is working by testing it with a multimeter, if you don’t have one to hand or are not confident you can call your local NAC technician for assistance. If the thermostat is faulty, it will need to be replaced.
• Check the heating element – The heating element’s role in your tumble dryer is exactly what it sounds like, it’s responsible for producing the heat. If it’s broken or worn, the dryer won’t heat up. You can check this by using a multimeter to test the continuity of the element. If it’s not working, then it will need to be replaced. If you can’t test it yourself, please contact NAC for assistance or to book an appointment with your local appliance repair specialist.
• Check the vent – If your vent is clogged or blocked by debris it can prevent the dryer from heating up as a failsafe to prevent fires. Take a good lock at your tumble dryer’s vent and filter and make sure it’s clear of lint and debris, if not, give it a thorough clean and try again.

A common problem we’re called out to fix. If your tumble dryer just doesn’t turn on, try the following steps to fix it yourself at home today.

• Check the power – It might seem like a pretty obvious thing to say, but check that the tumble dryer is properly plugged in and the socket is turned on. Also tried a different socket, as it could be a fault with the socket itself.
• Ensure the door is closed – Tumble dryers will not run, and some may not even turn on if the door isn’t closed securely.
• Check the timer – If your timer isn’t working, or it isn’t set correctly, then your tumble dryer might not turn on. Check that it’s set properly and that it’s working before trying to turn your machine on again.
• Check the start switch – This part sends a signal to the motor in order to start the dryer. If this switch is faulty or damaged then the dryer won’t turn on. Test the switch with a multimeter if you have one to see if it’s sending the proper signal. If it’s not working, or you don’t have access to a multimeter, we recommend contacting your local appliance repair specialist at NAC for help.