More Than Just an Inconvenience: Why a Faulty Dryer Needs Attention
A non-working tumble dryer is certainly frustrating, but the implications can go beyond a backlog of washing. Ignoring a fault or attempting a DIY repair without the proper knowledge can lead to bigger problems, increased costs, and even serious safety concerns. A malfunctioning machine can be a genuine hazard in the home.
Appliances that are overheating, for example, pose a significant fire risk. This is often caused by something as simple as a blocked vent or a clogged lint filter, but it requires immediate attention. Electrical faults can also be dangerous, potentially causing damage to your home’s consumer unit or posing a risk of electric shock. Furthermore, a dryer that is running inefficiently—perhaps taking two or three cycles to dry a single load—is consuming a vast amount of electricity, leading to unexpectedly high energy bills. Addressing the problem promptly with a professional not only solves the immediate issue but also protects your property and your wallet.
Common Tumble Dryer Problems We Can Help You Fix
Tumble dryer engineers see the same faults time and again. Fortunately, most common issues are highly repairable and far cheaper to fix than buying a new machine. Here are some of the typical problems a qualified tradesperson can resolve for you.
The Dryer Won't Start at All
You’ve loaded the drum, shut the door, and pressed the start button, but nothing happens. This is one of the most common call-outs. While it’s always worth checking the obvious—like the plug socket and the fuse in the plug itself—the issue is often internal. It could be a faulty door switch that isn't registering the door is closed, a blown thermal fuse designed to prevent overheating, or a problem with the main circuit board. A professional can quickly diagnose the electrical pathway and replace the specific component that has failed.
The Drum Isn't Turning
If you can hear the machine humming but the drum remains stubbornly still, the most likely culprit is a snapped or slipped drive belt. This is a relatively straightforward and inexpensive part to replace for an experienced engineer. Other potential causes include a seized drum bearing, worn-out jockey wheels (which provide tension to the belt), or, in rarer cases, a faulty motor. An expert will be able to distinguish the cause by the sound the machine makes and the resistance of the drum.
The Dryer is Making Alarming Noises
A tumble dryer should produce a consistent, gentle hum and the soft tumbling of clothes. Any sudden squeaking, grinding, scraping, or banging sounds are a clear signal that something is wrong. Squealing noises often point towards worn-out drum bearings or tension pulleys. A loud rumbling or grinding can indicate that the drum support wheels have worn down. A scraping sound might be as simple as a stray coin or bra wire caught in the drum's seal, but it's best to have it professionally removed to avoid damaging the drum or your clothes.
Clothes Are Still Damp After a Full Cycle
Perhaps the most frustrating fault is when the dryer appears to be working perfectly but fails to do its one job: drying clothes. If a cycle finishes and your laundry is still damp or taking significantly longer than usual, there’s likely an issue with the heating system or airflow. This could be a failed heating element, a faulty thermostat that isn't telling the element to turn on, or a simple blockage in the venting system or condenser unit that’s preventing moist air from escaping.
The Dryer is Overheating
An overheating dryer is a serious safety concern and should be switched off at the wall immediately. The cause is almost always related to restricted airflow. The most common reason is a clogged lint filter, which should be cleaned after every single use. If the filter is clear, the problem could be a blockage in the vent hose (for vented dryers) or a clogged condenser unit (for condenser models). In some cases, a malfunctioning thermostat or thermal cut-out could be to blame, failing to regulate the temperature correctly.
Repair for All Types of Tumble Dryers
Modern tumble dryers come in several varieties, each with its own technology and potential weak points. It’s important to find an engineer who understands the specific model you own, whether it’s a simple vented machine or a complex heat pump model. ServiceTasker connects you with tradespeople experienced in repairing all major types and brands.
Vented Tumble Dryer Repair
These are the simplest type of dryer. They work by heating the air, tumbling the clothes in it, and then expelling the hot, moist air outside through a flexible hose. Common repairs include replacing snapped belts, faulty heating elements, and worn-out thermostats. Blockages in the vent hose are also a frequent issue, leading to poor performance and overheating.
Condenser Tumble Dryer Repair
Condenser dryers are popular in flats and homes where it isn't practical to install an external vent. They work by collecting moisture from the hot air into a condenser unit, where it cools and turns back into water. This water is then collected in a removable reservoir or drained away via a plumbed-in hose. Typical faults include failed water pumps, blocked or dirty condenser units (which stops them from working efficiently), and sensor malfunctions.
Heat Pump Tumble Dryer Repair
As the most energy-efficient models on the market, heat pump dryers are increasingly popular. They operate like a refrigerator in reverse, using a closed-loop heat pump system to heat the air and remove moisture. While highly efficient, they are more technologically complex. Repairs can involve addressing issues with the refrigerant circuit, compressor faults, or sensor errors, requiring a specialist with knowledge of this specific technology. Finding a qualified engineer is crucial for these advanced machines.
