Dryer Issues – Why Your Dryer Won’t Work and How to Fix It

Ever load a load of laundry and watch the dryer run forever? Or hear a loud squeal that makes you wonder if it’s about to fall apart? You’re not alone. Most dryer headaches come from a few simple culprits that you can spot in minutes.

Common Signs Your Dryer Needs Help

First, notice what the dryer is actually doing. Is it not heating? Is the drum not turning? Is there a strange odor or a lot of noise? Each symptom points to a different part.

• No heat – Often a clogged vent, a broken heating element, or a tripped thermal fuse.
• Drum won’t spin – Could be a broken belt, faulty motor, or broken drum rollers.
• Loud rumbling or squeaking – Usually worn drum rollers, idler pulleys, or something stuck in the vent.
• Long drying times – Typically a vent blockage, dirty lint filter, or a weak heating element.
• Burning smell – Might be lint buildup in the exhaust or a failing heating coil.

Spotting the symptom narrows down the fix, saving you a call to a technician unless the problem is deeper.

Easy DIY Checks Before Calling a Pro

Grab a screwdriver and a flashlight – you’ll be surprised how much you can do yourself.

1. Clean the lint filter. This is the fastest way to improve airflow. Wash the filter with warm, soapy water, let it dry, and slide it back in.

2. Inspect the vent hose. Pull the dryer away from the wall and check the hose for lint clogs. A vacuum attachment or a long brush works wonders. If the hose is kinked, straighten it.

3. Test the power supply. A dryer needs a 240‑V circuit. Make sure the plug is snug and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Reset the breaker if needed.

4. Look at the drum belt. Open the dryer’s front panel (usually three screws) and see if the belt is snapped or loose. A broken belt stops the drum but the dryer will still heat.

5. Check the thermal fuse. This small safety part sits on the blower housing. If it’s blown, the dryer won’t heat. Use a multimeter; continuity means it’s OK.

If any of these steps reveal a problem you can’t fix, that’s when Bridgewater Appliance Fixers steps in. Our technicians can replace heating elements, belts, motors, or diagnose complex electrical issues in under an hour.

Regular maintenance keeps these issues at bay. Make it a habit to clean the lint filter after every load and give the vent a quick vacuum every few months. It not only shortens drying time but also cuts down fire risk.

When you call us, we’ll start with the same checks you just did, then move on to the hidden parts – thermostats, control boards, and internal sensors. Most common dryer repairs cost between £80 and £150, and we aim to finish the job in a single visit so you can get your clothes dry ASAP.

Remember, a dryer that’s clean, properly vented, and inspected regularly will last longer and run more efficiently. So next time your dryer starts acting up, run through these quick steps first. If the problem sticks, we’ve got the tools and expertise to get it humming again.