DRYER / MAINTENANCE / TIPS

Maximizing Dryer Efficiency: Dryers Issues and Troubleshooting Tips

Technically Reviewed by Oleg Chudnovski, CEO on Oct 05, 2023 | Written by Fix Appliances CA Editorial Contributors

In this article…

Several factors could contribute to the issue if your dryer is not drying clothes properly or taking an unusually long time to dry. Here are some common dryer troubleshooting tips to identify and fix the problem:

Check the Lint Filter: A clogged or dirty lint filter can restrict airflow and reduce drying efficiency. Clean the lint filter before or after every load to ensure proper airflow.
Inspect the Ventilation System: The venting system that allows hot, moist air to escape from the dryer needs to be clear and unobstructed. Check the vent hose and vent outlet for any blockages or lint buildup. Ensure the vent hose is not kinked or crushed, and use a rigid metal vent duct for proper airflow.
Verify Vent Length: Longer vent ducts or those with multiple bends can impede airflow and cause drying issues. Keep the vent hose as short and straight as possible to maximize efficiency.
Clean the Dryer Drum: The drum’s interior can accumulate a film of fabric softener residue or other chemicals, which may reduce drying performance. Wipe the drum with a damp cloth or use a bit of white vinegar to clean it.
Check the Heating Element: If the heating element is faulty, the dryer won’t produce enough heat to dry the clothes effectively. You can use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity.
Ensure Proper Voltage: Electric dryers require the correct voltage to function efficiently. Ensure the dryer receives the appropriate voltage and that the circuit breaker or fuses are not tripped.
Clear the Dryer Vent: If your dryer is not located near an exterior wall, it may have a longer vent system with a booster fan. Check the booster fan for any issues and ensure it’s functioning correctly.
Avoid Overloading: Overloading the dryer can lead to poor drying performance as the hot air won’t circulate properly. Dry smaller loads to allow clothes to tumble freely.
Check for Sensor Issues: Some dryers have moisture sensors determining when the clothes are dry. If the sensor malfunctions, the dryer may shut off prematurely or run for extended periods. Clean the sensor area to ensure proper functioning.
Clean the Exhaust Duct: If your dryer is still not drying adequately, you might need to clean the exhaust duct thoroughly. Lint and debris can accumulate over time, reducing the dryer’s efficiency.

If you’ve gone through these troubleshooting steps and still can’t resolve the issue, it may be time to contact a professional appliance repair service to diagnose and fix the problem. Always prioritize safety and disconnect the dryer from the power source before performing any maintenance or repairs.

Maximizing Dryer Efficiency: The Importance of Regular Maintenance and Safe Lint Removal

The clothes dryer is undoubtedly one of the most cherished home appliances, streamlining and speeding up the laundry routine. However, it’s crucial to prioritize dryer maintenance as lint buildup poses a serious safety hazard, causing numerous residential fires annually in the United States and Canada. We’ve covered you if you’re seeking reliable appliance repair in Toronto.

Maintaining Efficiency: To ensure your dryer runs at its best, regular cleaning of the lint trap, screen, and vent is paramount. Over time, lint accumulates in these areas, obstructing proper airflow and making the dryer work harder to dry clothes, leading to increased energy consumption.
Fire Hazard: Lint buildup within the dryer vent creates a significant fire risk. Thousands of residential fires occur yearly due to this dangerous combination, jeopardizing homes and families.
Professional Solutions: Fortunately, effective tools are available to combat lint accumulation and minimize the risk of fires. Specialized devices with brush-on flexible poles can thoroughly clean the entire dryer duct, from the appliance to the final termination point. Designed for long duct runs, these kits typically include a 12-foot flexible shaft, connect to a cordless drill, and offer various brush styles for comprehensive cleaning.
Conclusion: Maintaining your dryer’s efficiency through regular lint trap and vent cleaning is essential to optimize performance and energy usage. Safeguard your home and loved ones by addressing the fire hazard of lint buildup. For top-notch appliance repair services in Toronto, rely on our professional expertise to keep your dryer running smoothly and safely.

Typical dryer maintenance and repair costs typically include the following services:

Labour to repair a dryer	$150-$250
Maintenance	$25 -$100
Vent replacement labour	$50-150
Thermostat	from $25-55
Heat element assembly	from $45-85
Motor	from $95-125
Control board or touchpad	from $125-155

* – Please note that the prices mentioned above are approximate and are subject to variation based on the complexity of the services required and the specific brand and model of the appliance.

Our Expertise Covers a Wide Range of Dryer Machine Issues:

Dryer won’t turn at all
Dryer not spinning
Dryer is too hot
Dryer is not heating up
Dryer smells like burning
Dryer squeaking noise
Dryer stopped working
Dryer makes noise
Dryer starts and stops after a few minutes
Error code on the electronic panel

Thus, dryer repair is crucial to every mistress, and you can trust your problems to Fix Appliances CA, which provides same-day service in Toronto seven days a week at the highest level.

What are the Reasons to Clean a Dryer Vents?

Cleaning out the lint trap of your dryer is second nature to most. Because it helps our dryer work more efficiently and we know it’s a safety hazard if we don’t.

The same holds for your dryer vent. This tube runs from your dryer to the outside of your house. It helps remove hot air and moisture. If this vent gets clogged, it can lead to many complications. Here are the top 5 reasons why it’s important to keep your dryer vent clean and free from clogs and lint.

Safety – Dryers run hot, and lint is highly flammable, which makes for a dangerous combination.
Low-Efficiency – We all want our appliances to work as efficiently as possible. A clogged dryer vent could mean your clothes need multiple cycles before drying correctly or running longer.
A Clean Dryer Vent Means a Longer Life for Your Dryer – If your dryer is running longer than normal or more than one cycle per load, you’re slowly decreasing the life of your dryer. It’s essentially working double-time! An overworked dryer will add considerable wear and tear to your machine. This could lead to malfunctions and needed repairs.
Mould – The purpose of the dryer vent is to release moisture and hot air outside. The moisture can sometimes create wet spots inside the tube. Built-up lint can get caught in these wet spots and create mould.
Less Maintenance – Your dryer will last longer and work better if properly cared for. Cleaning the vent regularly will help ensure that your clothes are dried promptly and that you aren’t wasting unnecessary energy. Extended drying times can even cause strain on your fabrics.

Benefits of Dryer Vent Cleaning

Your clothes will dry faster.
Your dryer will last longer with fewer repairs.
Lower your power bill.
Reduce your risk of a potential dryer fire.

Dryer Lint Cleaning Tips

Cleaning your lint trap has three substantial benefits:

It prolongs the life of your dryer’s heating element.
It helps your clothes dry more quickly.
It keeps energy bills down. Cleaning a lint trap is simple, but there’s more to it than scraping lint from the screen.

Cleaning a Dryer Lint Trap

Remove the lint screen, and use a vacuum to remove any small bits of leftover lint.
Take the lint trap screen to the sink and wash it with warm soap and water.
While the lint trap dries, use your vacuum to clean the slot the lint trap slides into. Use a long, narrow vacuum extension to reach as far down as possible.
If you’re feeling handy, some lint traps can be more fully accessed if you remove a cover on the machine. Look for a set of screws or a latch that might allow access to this area. Before you start taking stuff apart, taking a photo you can reference during reassembly is a good idea.

How to Clean a Dryer Exhaust Hose

Do you have an inline dryer hose lint trap? This is a second barrier to keep lint from accumulating in your dryer exhaust hose. It’s a lint screen for your dryer hose that catches lint after it is exhausted from the dryer. If you have one, clean this out with a vacuum. If you don’t have an inline dryer hose lint trap, you’ll want to clean out your exhaust hose by following these steps:

Have a friend help you move the dryer away from the wall. Be cautious of any gas, water or electric lines.
Remove the clamp on the end of the hose that connects it to the dryer.
Once you can access the hose, vacuum up excess lint within the hose and the dryer.
If you see significant buildup, you may want to purchase a special brush just the right size for the hose.
Trace your dryer hose to the exterior vent. You may find other areas where you can remove a clamp to access the interior of the hose and remove lint.

Efficient Dryer Repair Services in the Toronto Area – Book Today!

We provide service for a wide range of dryer brands, including but not limited to Amana, Bosch, Frigidaire, General Electric, Electrolux, Inglis, Kenmore, KitchenAid, LG, Maytag, Miele, Samsung, Whirlpool and many others. Regularly cleaning your dryer vents is crucial in preventing fire incidents. While understanding how to clean your dryer vent is beneficial, entrusting the task to professionals ensures a thorough and safe cleaning process.

If you feel uneasy about handling the dryer hose and vent cleaning yourself, it’s advisable to entrust the task to a professional at least once a year. Our skilled team is readily available to provide prompt assistance for dryer vent cleaning and repair services on the same day. For any dryer-related needs in Toronto or nearby areas, you can reach us by calling or texting at 647-503-6655 or conveniently book an appointment through our request service form.

Date of page creation: July 28, 2023

Page update date: October 05, 2023

How can I tell if my dryer needs repair?

There are several signs that indicate your dryer may require repair. If your dryer is taking longer than usual to dry clothes, producing strange noises during operation, or not turning on at all, it might be time to seek professional assistance. Additionally, if you notice burning smells or the dryer drum is not spinning, it's essential to have it checked by a qualified technician in Toronto.

How much does dryer repair service cost in Toronto?

The cost of dryer repair service in Toronto can vary depending on the specific issue, the make and model of your dryer, and the service provider you choose. Generally, minor repairs like fixing a broken belt or replacing a faulty thermostat may cost less than major repairs that involve replacing complex components. It's best to request quotes from reputable appliance repair companies in Toronto to get an accurate estimate for your specific dryer repair needs.

Is it better to repair or replace a malfunctioning dryer in Toronto?

Whether to repair or replace a malfunctioning dryer depends on several factors, such as the age of the appliance, the extent of the damage, and the cost of repair compared to the cost of a new dryer. In many cases, minor repairs are cost-effective and can extend the lifespan of your dryer. However, if the repair costs are approaching the price of a new and more energy-efficient model, it may be more economical to invest in a replacement. A reputable dryer repair technician in Toronto can assess the condition of your appliance and provide advice on the best course of action.

Do you offer a dryer repair service in Toronto?

Of course, we do. You are welcome to contact our representatives in Toronto or other GTA areas for any dryer repair or washing machine repair services seven days a week, including holidays. They will send the technicians to your place at the most convenient time.

How much should it cost to clean out a dryer vent?

The national average cost to clean a dryer vent is between $100 and $200. Most people pay around $150 to clean a moderately clogged vent on the first floor of their home. At the low end of the spectrum, however, you can pay $80 to clean a duct of 15 feet or less.

What happens if you don't clean dryer vents?

Your dryer's exhaust system can get clogged with lint, which will keep your dryer from functioning properly. As a result, the dryer will not only take longer to dry clothes but also increase your electric bill and create a fire risk. It's a lose-lose-lose proposition.

How often do you clean a lint filter?

Your recommendations are correct – you should clean the lint filter between every batch of clothes. Get into the habit of removing lint from the screen before or after every batch. Many new dryers will automatically remind you to check the lint filter before starting up.

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