Tumble Dryer Repair: Fast Fixes for Heat, Drum and Noise Issues

If your tumble dryer is taking forever to dry, making a racket, or just won’t turn on, you’re not alone. Most households face a dryer problem at some point, and many of them can be solved without a full service call. Below are the most common faults and what you can do right now to get your dryer back in shape.

Spotting the Core Problems

1. No heat – just hot air. This usually means a faulty heating element, a blown thermal fuse, or a clogged vent. Start by unplugging the dryer, removing the lint filter, and checking the vent pipe for blockages. If the vent is clear, locate the heating element (usually behind the drum) and look for visible burns or broken wires.

2. Drum won’t turn. A broken drive belt, a worn drum roller, or a busted motor are the usual suspects. Open the dryer’s front panel, inspect the belt for cracks, and spin the drum manually. If it moves freely, the motor may be the issue.

3. Loud squealing or thumping. Worn bearings, loose drum support rollers, or objects stuck in the drum can cause noise. Pull the dryer away from the wall, tilt it slightly, and shake it gently – a loose part will clank.

DIY Steps You Can Take Today

First, always disconnect the dryer from power. Next, clean the lint filter and the entire vent system – a blocked vent can cause overheating, longer drying times, and even fire hazards. Use a vacuum attachment to clear lint from the vent hose and the back of the dryer.

If the heating element looks damaged, you can order a replacement specific to your model and swap it out. It’s a simple process: remove the back panel, disconnect the element’s wires, unscrew the element, and fit the new one. Re‑connect the wires, re‑attach the panel, and test the dryer.

For a broken belt, follow the same panel removal steps, then slide the old belt off the motor pulley and drum. Slip the new belt around the drum and under the tension roller, then retension it by moving the roller. Tighten any screws and close the panel.

When you hear a thump, look inside the drum for loose objects – coins, small toys, or fabric. Remove them, then check the drum rollers. If they wobble, replace them with a kit that includes new rollers and springs.

When to Call the Pros

Some issues are best left to certified technicians. If you’ve checked the vent, cleaned the lint, and the dryer still doesn’t heat, the problem might be a faulty thermostat or control board – parts that require precise testing. A burnt motor or severe drum damage also calls for a professional.

Bridgewater Appliance Fixers can have a qualified repairer at your door within hours. Our team knows every make and model, so you won’t waste money on the wrong part. We also offer a 12‑month warranty on all repairs, giving you peace of mind.

Regular maintenance keeps problems at bay. Run a quick lint‑cleaning routine after each use, inspect the vent every few months, and give the dryer a spin‑cycle without clothes once a month to keep the drum moving freely.

Remember, a well‑maintained tumble dryer saves you time, energy bills, and the hassle of unexpected breakdowns. Whether you tackle a simple belt swap or call Bridgewater Appliance Fixers for a complex fix, you now have a clear roadmap to get the job done quickly and safely.