Dryer FAQ

NOTE: When experiencing problems with any appliance, the first thing the customer should do is check to see that there is power going to the unit by checking the breaker box.

What can I do when my dryer is running but not heating?

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

• Make sure you have the right timer selection, fabric setting, and temperature selection. Timer should be set to dry and not fluff or cool down.
• Move timer pointer to mid-range selection.
• Make sure front of dryer is not blocked; air flow is needed to dry.

Electric models:

• The dryer should be on a separate outlet.
• Check the circuit breaker/fuses.
• Check the power cord. The power cord may have a burned, broken, or loose connection at the back of the dryer. Safety First- turn circuit breaker to "off" position or remove fuses. At the back of the dryer, locate the power cord and unplug it from the wall. The power cord of the dryer connects to a terminal block at the rear of the dryer. A metal plate covers this terminal block. Remove the screws holding the metal plate in place to access the terminal block connections. Check the power cord; look for burned, broken, frayed, or loose wire connections. If wires and/or terminal connections are burned, broken, or frayed, then replacement of both will be necessary.

Gas models:

• Make sure the gas line has been turned on for new installations.

How long should it take for my clothes to dry?

Most dryers dry a large load of laundry in about 45 minutes. If the load takes significantly more time than that, you may have a clogged vent tubing system.

How often should I clean the lint filter?

Every time you dry a load.

What type of vent should I have? Is the white vinyl tubing OK?

All national and local building codes now require metal ducting for clothes dryers. It's ideal to use the stiff (rigid) aluminum tubing pieces. This type of tubing does the best job of resisting the collection of lint in the duct. You can use flexible aluminum ducting instead, though it's far more prone to collecting lint inside. White vinyl ducting is dangerous. It is flammable and, if ignited by the dryer, it may burn and cause a house fire.

Should I oil the motor or rollers?

No. All dryers are designed to run without periodic oiling. If a roller or pulley becomes noisy or squeaky, replace it and clean or replace the shaft it rotates on.

Is a gas dryer cheaper to run than an electric dryer?

Yes. Gas dryers are typically half as expensive to run as electric dryers.

Do fabric softener sheets hurt the dryer?

Yes and no. Dryer softener sheets don't harm the dryer. However, their residue may cause the screen of the lint filter to become partially clogged or the electronic moisture sensor to be coated with residue. If this happens, clean the screen with a little detergent and a soft-bristle brush, wipe off the sensor with a cotton ball and a little rubbing alcohol. Sometimes the softener sheets get stuck in the lint filter or over the vents on the inside of the dryer, so check to be sure the sheets come out of the dryer with the load of clothes.

Is it important for my dryer to be level?

Yes. All appliances perform best when set up properly. If a dryer is not level, it can cause some components to wear out prematurely.