When you reach into your dryer, you expect to pull out warm, soft clothing. So when your clothes come out cold and wet, it’s time to take a deeper look at how your dryer is performing. Several issues can lead to the poor performance of a dryer. Many are easy fixes that can be done when your dryer is not drying, that don’t require a service technician. In this article, we will look at the most common reasons your dryer isn’t getting clothes their warmest. Power or Gas Supply The two most common types of dryers are electric and gas. Both offer effective drying solutions for people looking for an alternative to hanging clothes out to dry. But like all appliances, both electric and gas dryers can have power source issues. When the dryer is not heating up, it is likely not getting enough power to perform the way it should. If your dryer is not drying clothes it could be a simple connection or voltage issue. Before installing your electrical dryer, make sure you are using the right voltage to ensure it has enough power to operate. A minimum of 24–volts is recommended. Dryers that run on gas should be properly connected to the gas supply lines. Check the shut-off valve to make sure there is an adequate gas flow to the machine. Remember to shut off the gas before doing any kind of mechanical work to a gas dryer. Lint Screen Your lint screen ensures your clothes not only come out of the dryer fresh and warm, but free from lint and other particles. The lint screen is usually located within the door or the back of the dryer depending on the model. Removing lint only takes a few moments, but simply dragging your hand along the screen to collect the debris. This can then be disposed of in the garbage. If the lint screen becomes clogged, it can prevent clothing from drying efficiently. Many homeowners don’t even realize they have a lint screen until the clothes start drying poorly or develop a smell. It is recommended to empty the lint screen after every load of laundry to prevent lint build-up. Lint is highly flammable because it is made up of fibres and chemicals that have been pulled from the clothes. A lint build-up can quickly lead to a fire which can destroy your machine and potentially your home. Consult your owner’s manual to see where your lint screen is located. Vent In the wintertime you often see condensation escaping from a vent on the side of homes. This is where your dryer vent accesses the exterior of your home. Depending on the size of the dryer, you will have either an internal or external dryer vent. Many apartment-sized dryers will have an internal that vents out of a window, while larger dryers will be connected to a large paper that connects to a vent outdoors. Over time, the vent can become clogged with debris leading to a risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Disconnect the hose at the dryer and vacuum out the vent. Do the same at the exhaust side of the vent outdoors. This should be performed every year to ensure it remains clear and free of debris. Check the vent and hose for any cracks or tears that could hinder the escape of warm air. Also, make sure to check that the vent is connected properly to the exhaust pipe. You may notice lint or dust around the vent if it is not sealed around the exhaust. You may also notice the humidity in the area around your dryer rise significantly. This is a clear sign that there is a gap, crack, or connection issue somewhere along the exhaust pipe Remember to always keep your exhaust vent clear. Do not allow snow or other objects to block the flow of air. Contact Us A dryer not working can be frustrating, especially when you have a load of laundry to do. If your dryer is leaving your clothes all wet, it may be time to contact a service technician. The friendly and professional team at Fix It Right Appliance Repair can get your dryer blowing hot air again, ensuring that every piece of clothing you take out is warm and dry.
