What to Do if a Dryer Overheats and Shuts Off?

Why Does a Dryer Overheat?

Why is a dryer overheating badly? When a dryer gets too hot, it can burn your hands, damage your laundry, or cause a fire. It can also damage the inner workings of the dryer, causing short circuits or burns inside the control system. What causes a dryer to overheat? Here’s the rundown of the most common problems resulting from dryer overheating.

Reason #1. Dust and dirt getting into the air hole

If the air filter inside the dryer is dusty or dirty, it’s harder for the appliance to heat the air. As a result, the device uses more energy to create enough heat. After a short while of use, a dryer with a clogged filter will start overheating and shut off on its own. To make sure you are taking good care of the dryer, clean the appliance after every two or three uses.

Reason #2. Airflow restrictions

If the air gets stuck inside a dryer’s internal duct instead of coming out, you will likely get the dryer overheated. It’s worth checking the power of the airflow from the duct inside the dryer to ensure it’s not clogged or rusty. Since using an old air duct increases the risk of fire hazards, replace it to prolong the device’s lifespan and stay safe.

Reason #3. Heating element issues

When an appliance is brand new, the heating element typically responds effectively to changes in temperature, adjusting the warm air output accordingly when you switch temperature modes. However, as the appliance ages, the heating element may shift and develop minor burns or circuit malfunctions. This can lead to inconsistent heating, causing the dryer to either heat too slowly or too quickly. Over time, a common issue arises where the heating elements in the dryer shift position and come into direct contact with other parts of the appliance, resulting in overheating. It’s advisable to contact a technician to readjust the positioning of the component. If the heating element is irreparably damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Reason #4. The cycling thermostat doesn’t activate

A cycling thermostat serves as a safety measure to prevent the appliance from overheating. When a dryer reaches excessive temperatures, this component reacts by automatically shutting off the appliance. However, if the cycling thermostat fails to function properly, it could be the reason why a dryer is overheating and shutting off unexpectedly. To access, repair, or replace the thermostat, you’ll need to remove the back panel of the dryer. Once you have clear access to the component, conduct some tests using a multi-probe device. If the reading shows ‘zero’, the thermostat is functional. However, if it shows ‘infinity’, it indicates the need for replacement. Fortunately, thermostats are relatively inexpensive, making it a more affordable option than replacing the entire dryer.

How to Prevent a Dryer from Overheating

The best way to prolong the appliance’s lifespan, ensure safe use, and avoid calling a technician is by following good maintenance practices. Here are some tips you can use for troubleshooting when your dryer gets too hot and shuts off.

Tip #1. Control dryer settings

The rule of thumb is that the dryer temperature selector shouldn’t go above “medium.” Using high-mode heating increases the heat damage to your clothes and may cause circuit burns and other mechanical issues. If you don’t have many heating options, choose the temperature setting that doesn’t feel too hot when you put the palm of your hand next to the stream of air from the dryer.

Tip #2. Clean the drum of the dryer thoroughly

Depending on the frequency of use, you should clean your appliance every couple of uses. Otherwise, you will see the dryer overheating and shutting off. Make sure the device is unplugged before you start cleaning. Instead, don’t use anything wet; instead, choose dry cotton pads, a clean makeup sponge, or a sock. To clean the device’s exterior, mix equal parts vinegar and warm water.

Tip #3. Don’t overuse the dryer

Try not to use the dryer for more than 40-50 minutes at one time. Although the overall lifespan of some models can go up to 1,500, don’t let the number trick you. It’s easy to overheat the coil and damage the inner circuits of the system if you keep the dryer on for an extended period. Don’t use a dryer as a household heater, either. Since it was not designed for the purpose, you could increase the risks of fire hazards. Keep a timer nearby to track how long the appliance is running.

Tip #4. Clean the lint screens

Lint screens are one of the dryer components ensuring the safety of usage. For one, they capture lint, grease, and dust, ensuring nothing gets stuck inside the heating coil. Once a screen has stopped letting air through, an appliance can overheat. By keeping these screens clear, you improve the appliance’s energy efficiency, protect your clothes from heat damage, and minimize fire risks. To clean the dryer lint protection screens, remove the protective cover with a snapping or twisting motion. If the protection screen is hardened by dust and dirt, moisten the Q-tip or a sponge, making sure no water is dripping from it. Rotate the Q-tip or sponge across each screen area to remove the dust and dirt.

Tip #5. Make sure the dryer cord doesn’t knot

One reason dryers overheat is that the cord that connects the appliance to the outlet has become knotted. Take some time to untie the knots until the cord makes a perfectly straight line. Plug the dryer back in and evaluate its performance.

FIX Appliances CA — Professional Technicians For Fixing Dryers

Contact FIX Appliances CA for top-rated assistance. We are an experienced appliance maintenance and repair team with TSSA gas certifications. Our goal is to help homeowners diagnose dryer issues and increase the life of their appliances. Here’s why FIX Appliances CA is a trusted repair and maintenance contractor among Canadian homeowners and businesses:

• We do all types of repairs: The FIX Appliances CA team has decades of experience repairing, installing and maintaining all types of appliances — from kitchens to washing machines. We are licensed to fix, repair, and maintain both electric and gas appliances.
• 5-star service: Our technicians are prompt and dependable, perform thorough inspections, and don’t charge extra overtime work. That, coupled with a high level of expertise, is why we are the unrivalled repair technician team in the country.
• Same-day service: And for many manufacturers, for example, to improve the quality of service, we have same-day service availability. For example, this time, we can schedule a selection of appliances from Samsung or LG appliance repair on the same day. Check this option with our dispatchers before noon on the same day. Jobs will be booked on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Business hours: Our customer service representatives operate from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, including weekends & holidays. We always find time to respond to inquiries and follow-up questions. FIX Appliances CA has a dedicated customer support team ready to answer questions and offer assistance.
• Complete warranty: 90-day refund guarantee: We offer every homeowner high-quality, affordable repair services. That’s why your satisfaction is our priority. FIX Appliances CA technicians will provide a refund if an appliance we repaired or replaced fails in the 3-month window after the repair.

You can contact FIX Appliances CA technicians for home appliance service from anywhere in Canada. The first service call is free — so don’t hesitate to contact professional technicians for consults and appliance inspection. We look forward to hearing from you and offering expert-level assistance. Please leave a message or give us a call at toll-free number 1-888-242-0777.