Dryer maintenance tips: 10 ways to prevent common problems

Did you know that your trusty clothes dryer could be a hidden fire hazard just waiting to happen? Every year, lint accumulation and improper maintenance transform convenience into catastrophe. Don’t worry, though—our expert guide, complete with an instructional how-to video below, will show you the essential steps to keep your dryer safe and functioning optimally.

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Dryers can make our laundry routines so much easier, but they’re also one of the top causes of home fires every year. It doesn’t take much lint or debris accumulation to start a fire in a dryer, so it’s important to take precautions to maintain your clothes dryer in order to keep you, your loved ones and your home safe.

Let’s find out how you can clean and maintain your clothes dryer. If you need any replacement parts for your 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.

Read more: How to prevent appliance fire hazards

1. Clean the lint filter

Dryer lint is extremely flammable, and you don’t want pieces to remain in the machine, where they can easily start a fire.

• Clean the lint filter after each drying cycle, even if laundry items were only in the dryer for a short amount of time.
• Never run the dryer without a lint filter, since this can cause lint to accumulate in the vent pipe and ductwork. This can block airflow, increase drying times and prevent your dryer from working correctly.
• Rinse and scrub the filter with a mild detergent to remove stubborn debris such as leftover fabric softener. Make sure it’s completely dry before reinstalling.
• Check the mesh screen of the filter for tears and replace it if it’s damaged.

2. Clean the dryer duct and vent

Many clothes dryer problems can also be resolved by simply cleaning out the duct and vent. Lint buildup in these areas can restrict airflow from the dryer, which can cause it to overheat.

Regularly inspect and clean the venting system to ensure it’s free from blockages. Use a vacuum cleaner or a long-handled brush to remove any dryer lint or debris that may have accumulated in the vent housing. Be sure to clean the entire length of the duct and the exterior vent attached to the back of the dryer.

3. Use the right venting material

The venting material you choose for your dryer has a huge impact on your dryer’s safety and airflow. Though there are many options on the market, consider the following to keep things moving smoothly through your venting system:

• Only use rigid metal ducting since it’s less prone to damage during use and much safer than plastic or foil.
• Inspect the venting system regularly and replace any pieces that show signs of wear and tear.
• Keep the dryer away from the wall to prevent the venting material from getting smashed or crushed.

4. Check the exhaust vent

Keep your exhaust vent in good shape to prevent airflow issues with your dryer.

• Regularly check that the outdoor vent flap opens when your dryer is in use.
• Use a vacuum or cleaning kit with a long-handled brush to clean the exhaust vent every 2-3 months to prevent debris from settling in it.
• Replace the exterior vent with a new one if it’s damaged.

Watch: How to clear exhaust vent

5. Keep the area around your dryer clean

A clutter-free environment around your dryer can help manage heat in the space.

Keep flammable objects such as cleaning supplies, paper, boxes and clothing away from the dryer. These kinds of items can become fuel for a potential fire.

6. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations

Don’t throw the paperwork for your dryer in the trash. The manual, technical sheet and other documents contain instructions and safety information that can help you get the most out of your machine.

Keep all instructions and paperwork for your dryer in a safe, accessible place. This may be a drawer, cabinet or backup of the documents on your mobile device.

Watch: How to fix a dryer that gets too hot

7. Regularly test gas dryer models

If you have a gas dryer, regular maintenance is even more important. Gas leaks are a severe fire hazard and can also result in carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Install carbon monoxide alarms on every level of your home.
• Inspect the gas line, connections, valve, and burner assembly at least once every 2-3 months. Watch out for any signs of damage or wear that could lead to gas-related fires and health problems.

8. Use the correct type of plug and outlet

By maintaining the electrical connections for your dryer, you can keep it safe to use and lengthen its lifespan.

• Make sure your dryer is using the right type of plug and outlet specified in the user manual.
• Regularly check the integrity of your plug and outlet to prevent electrical issues. If you notice any damage, replace the plug or contact a licensed electrician to fix outlet issues.
• Never plug a dryer into an extension cord.
• Dedicate one outlet for the dryer. Overloaded electrical sockets can trip the circuit breakers or blow the fuse and potentially cause a house fire.

Read more: 6 Easy Ways to Perk Up Your Laundry Room

9. Never leave the dryer unattended during use

Running the dryer when you’re away from home or asleep might seem harmless, but it can significantly increase the risk of a fire.

Always turn off the dryer when you leave home or go to bed.

Read more: Seven Steps to Master Your Laundry Day

10. Inspect & clean the dryer drum

• Regularly look over the inside of the dryer to check for any damage. If you find any damage to the drum or moisture sensor strips, don’t use the dryer until they have been repaired.
• Check and clean the moisture sensor strips, especially if you use fabric softener. Residue that remains on the strips can prevent the dryer from detecting how dry the laundry is during the cycle. You can use rubbing alcohol to wipe the strips clean.

Dryer FAQs

Q: What kind of repairs can I make on my dryer?

A: Most issues with dryers such as long dry times, overheating or strange noises involve parts that can be fixed by homeowners with a few basic steps and regular household tools. Always prioritize safety and follow all manufacturer guidelines while you work.

Q: What can I do to extend the life of my dryer after fixing it?

A: This is relatively easy to do. Always clean the lint filter after every use and clean the venting system at least once a year to maintain good airflow. Avoid overloading the dryer and use the appropriate settings for each load.

Q: How long should it take to dry laundry?

A: On average, a typical load of laundry can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour to dry completely. The drying time can vary depending on the amount of clothes, the fabric, the dryer’s capacity, and the selected drying cycle. Heavier fabrics like towels or jeans may take longer to dry compared to lighter items. If your laundry is taking longer to dry than usual, the first troubleshooting step should always be to check and clean out the lint trap and dryer venting system.

Q: How often should I clean the lint trap?

A: Clean the lint trap after every drying cycle. A clean lint trap allows for better airflow, which helps prevent lint buildup in the vent system. This greatly reduces the risk of a fire.

Q: Are there any laundry items that I can’t dry in the dryer?

A: Most fabrics can be safely dried in a dryer, but it’s recommended to keep out delicate and sensitive materials such as silk, lace and wool. It’s best to hang dry these fabrics and others like them to prevent any damage. You may be able to use the dryer’s low-heat or delicate cycle. Always check the garment’s care label for specific drying instructions.

Q: How do I know which dryer cycle to use?

A: To find the best dryer cycle, check the garment’s care label for instructions. Look for symbols or text indicating the recommended drying method. Different fabrics have specific needs: delicate fabrics may require a gentle or low-heat cycle, while sturdier fabrics can typically handle regular cycles. You can also check the user manual for more specific cycle information for your dryer model.

More information

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