Can you use a Whirlpool dryer without a lint trap?

If your Whirlpool dryer has a missing or damaged lint filter (also called a lint trap), have you wondered if you can run the unit anyway? Let’s unpack why this is never a good idea and how to prevent problems with your lint filter.

If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool dryer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Why you should always use a lint trap in your Whirlpool dryer

The lint trap in your dryer helps keep your dryer running smoothly and also drastically reduces the risk of fire in your home.

Laundry items produce lint and other debris that doesn’t always come out in the wash cycle. When these bits of debris and lint – which is highly flammable – accumulate in the dryer and the internal and external vents, they can reduce airflow and increase the chance of a fire starting when you run the dryer.

The lint trap acts as the first defense by catching debris before it can cause bigger – and more expensive – problems.

• A clogged vent forces the dryer to work harder and use more energy to dry clothes.
• Excessive lint buildup can damage the dryer’s internal parts over time, which can lead to more frequent repairs or premature replacement of the unit.
• Strong airflow is needed for the dryer to dry clothes thoroughly. The lint trap – when regularly cleaned – promotes this airflow by capturing lint before it can circulate back into the dryer.

Read more: How to Clean a Dryer Vent

How a lint trap works in your Whirlpool dryer

The lint trap is typically found on the front or top of the dryer so it’s accessible for easy cleaning. It’s positioned in the airflow path, just before the exhaust vent.

As clothes tumble and dry in the dryer, tiny fibers and particles are shed from the fabrics. The warm, circulating air inside the dryer carries this lint toward the exhaust vent.

As the air carrying the lint passes through the lint trap, the fine openings in the trap’s screen or mesh material catch and hold onto the larger lint particles while allowing air through.

Common problems caused by a missing or damaged lint trap

You should never run any type of dryer without a lint trap since it can lead to several serious issues, including the following.

Increased fire hazards

Lint is highly flammable and can easily accumulate in the dryer’s body, exhaust system, vents, and other areas. Without a lint trap to catch this lint, it can build up very quickly and become a major fire risk. Dryer fires are a leading cause of home fires, and running a dryer without a lint trap significantly increases this danger.

Overheating

Without a lint filter, the lint that would normally be caught by it would instead get blown through the dryer’s exhaust system. This can lead to a gradual buildup of lint in the vents and outside exhaust openings. Clogged vents reduce airflow, which can cause the dryer to work harder and potentially overheat. An overheated dryer can start a fire or become damaged very fast. The dryer may even shut down or display an error code to prevent a fire.

Reduced energy efficiency

If you don’t use a lint filter and debris has blocked airflow in the exhaust system, then the dryer has to work harder to dry clothes. This often results in longer drying times, higher energy consumption, and increased wear and tear on the dryer’s parts.

Moisture buildup

If the lint filter isn’t working correctly and causes the vent to get blocked, then moist air from the dryer can’t properly vent outside. This can lead to moisture buildup inside the home, which can cause serious issues like mold, mildew, and damp walls or ceilings.

Reduced lifespan

If a lint filter is missing or damaged, it puts extra strain on the dryer when the vent becomes clogged. This can cause overheating that reduces the overall lifespan of the appliance, which means more frequent repairs or replacing the dryer prematurely.

Read more: How To Disassemble A Dryer

How to clean and maintain your dryer’s lint trap

IMPORTANT: Always clean the lint trap after every drying cycle to maintain proper airflow and prevent lint buildup in the vent.

1. Find the lint trap, which is usually inside the dryer’s door or on the top.
2. Gently pull out the lint trap to remove it from the dryer.
3. Use your fingers to remove any lint and debris that has accumulated on the trap. If needed, use a soft brush or lint brush to help remove any stubborn lint.
4. Check the lint trap for any rips, tears or damage. If the trap is damaged in any way, replace it.
5. Use a vacuum hose attachment or a cloth to clean the lint trap opening inside the dryer.
6. Align the trap correctly and follow any guidelines that may be marked on it. Make sure it fits snugly back into the dryer.

Read more: How does a ventless dryer work & should you use one?

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool dryer, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

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