Los Angeles dryer troubleshooting tips (before calling a repair tech)

Living in Los Angeles means enjoying sunny weather and moderate temperatures year-round. However, that also means most homes don’t have ventilation systems designed for heavy appliance use. As a result, a clothes dryer can take a beating in LA households.

When your dryer stops working properly, the temptation is to call an appliance repair company right away. But before picking up the phone, arm yourself with a basic understanding of how dryers work and what often goes wrong.

In many cases, you can troubleshoot and fix appliance issues yourself. Doing so will save you the high costs of professional service calls. This guide from AppliancePartsPros.com will empower you to handle common dryer repairs on your own.

How Does a Dryer Work?

Knowing the basic components and functions inside a dryer will help you diagnose problems. Most home dryers are one of two main configurations:

Electric Dryers

• Heat is generated by electric heating elements.
• Less costly to operate than gas.
• Slightly longer average drying cycle.
• Work on 240 volts AC. 

Gas Dryers

• Heat comes from a gas burner.
• Provides higher heat for faster drying.
• Costs more per load than electric dryers.
• Typically runs on 120 volts AC. 

Regardless of the energy source, there are other vital parts responsible for tumbling, venting, and controlling dryer operations:

Drum – The large rotating cylinder that holds clothing during drying cycles. Most drums have baffles to lift and drop clothes as they turn.

Blower – Forces air through the dryer and the venting system. Critical for efficient moisture removal.

Lint Filter – Traps lint and debris from clothes so only heat and moisture exit through the vent. Needs frequent cleaning.

Thermostats & Sensors – Monitor temperature and moisture levels to control cycle times and prevent overheating.

Belt – The drive belt rotates the drum. Becomes loose or damaged over time.

Motor – Powers the turning drum and blower fan. Burns out eventually in most dryers.

Control Board or Timer – Regulates all electronic functions. Can fail intermittently.

Essential Tools for DIY Dryer Repairs

Gather the following tools before tackling any dryer repair project:

• Socket set – For removing access panels and other fasteners. Nutdriver sets also serve the same purpose.
• Screwdrivers – Both Phillips and flat heads.
• Needlenose pliers – Helps grip hoses, wires and small parts.
• Multimeter – For diagnosing specific component failures.
• Flashlight – Illuminates dark interior spaces.
• Gloves – Protect hands from sharp edges.

Read More: Tool Maintenance 101: The Basics You Need To Know

Where to Buy Replacement Dryer Parts

Identifying and purchasing the right replacement parts is critical to DIY success. AppliancePartsPros.com offers a user-friendly experience with:

• Intuitive dryer parts diagrams and exploded views
• Search filters to find parts by brand and model
• 365-day warranty on new parts
• Live chat, email, and phone ordering assistance

Be sure to have your appliance’s brand, model, and serial numbers handy when searching for parts. You’ll typically find this info printed on a tag just inside the dryer door frame.

Common Los Angeles dryer brands include:

• Whirlpool
• Samsung
• LG
• General Electric
• Kenmore
• Maytag
• Frigidaire
• Bosch

Now let’s review the most prevalent dryer failures and how to fix them yourself.

Common Los Angeles dryer problems

• No heat
• Loud noises
• Won’t start

1. Gas dryer won’t heat

If your gas dryer is no longer producing heat to dry your clothes, the issue likely lies with one of several key components. Here are the top 5 most common reasons a gas dryer won’t heat properly:

Failed thermal fuse

• The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off heat if temps exceed 190-225°F
• Located on blower housing or near heat source
• Use a multimeter to test continuity – if no reading, replace the fuse
• Check venting for clogs restricting airflow, a common cause of blown fuses

Faulty igniter

• The igniter should glow red to ignite gas
• Ceramic base with fragile heating element – handle with care
• Located at burner assembly, often on burner tube
• Visually inspect for cracks/damage and test continuity

Bad gas valve solenoids

• Allow gas flow to the burner assembly
• Can fail after 1-2 heat cycles
• Use a multimeter to test resistance – should be within spec per the wiring diagram
• If readings are off, replace both solenoids

Faulty radiant flame sensor

• Sends power to open the gas valve when flame/heat detected
• Mounted by burner assembly on a tube near the igniter
• Use a multimeter to test continuity between terminals
• If there is no continuity or stays on all the time, replace the sensor

Defective gas valve

• Uncommon failure, but can get stuck open (gas leaks) or closed (no gas flow)
• Located by the burner assembly
• If confirmed no other causes, the gas valve needs to be replaced

2. Electric dryer won’t heat

An electric dryer that fails to heat properly can be incredibly frustrating. However, several common issues typically cause this problem. Addressing these potential culprits can often get your dryer heating again quickly and efficiently.

Power supply issues

Electric dryers require a full 240 volts to generate enough heat to properly dry clothing. If there is an issue with your home’s electrical circuit breaker or outlet, it can prevent the dryer from heating.

• Check circuit breakers and reset if tripped
• Use a multimeter to test the outlet voltage
• Confirm 240V at the outlet, if not, replace the socket or breaker

Failed thermal fuse

The thermal fuse shuts off the heat if the dryer overheats. When it fails, it will interrupt heating.

• Locate the thermal fuse (often on the blower housing)
• Use a multimeter to check for continuity
• If there is no continuity, replace the fuse
• Identify and address airflow restrictions

Faulty heating element

The heating element converts electricity into heat. Failures can occur over time.

• Locate the coiled heating element wire
• Detach element and test terminals for resistance
• Generally, a heating element needs 20 – 50 ohms to operate. However, it is important to check with your dryer’s tech sheet for the proper resistance rating of your element. 

Cycling thermostat issues

This thermostat regulates internal temp by cycling heat on and off.

• Test thermostat terminals for continuity
• Replace the thermostat if no continuity

Defective high-limit thermostat

This safety thermostat shuts off heat if overheating occurs.

• Detach and test terminals for continuity
• Replace the thermostat if no continuity

By methodically testing each of these electric dryer components, you can often determine the cause of the heating failure. Replacing the faulty part is typically all that is needed to get your dryer running hot again.

Once you’ve identified the faulty component, ordering a new one from AppliancePartsPros.com is fast and easy. 

Further Reading: How To Use A Multimeter To Check Appliance Parts

3. Dryer making loud noises

Early noise detection and repair can prevent extensive drum and motor damage over time. Here are the most common sources of racket:

Worn drum rollers or axles

The drum rollers and axles support the rotating drum inside the dryer. Over time, the bearings inside the rollers can wear out. Here’s what to check:

• Listen for a loud squeaking or tumbling/flapping sound coming from the drum
• Inspect the rollers – do they spin freely on the axles?
• Replace any worn drum rollers as a complete set
• If axles are scratched, replace as needed

Worn front drum glides

Glides allow the front of the drum to slide smoothly as it turns. When these wear out:

• You’ll hear a grinding noise coming from the front panel area
• Visually inspect glides and replace if worn

Bad idler pulley

The idler pulley maintains tension on the drive belt. When its bearing fails:

• Squeaking noise when the drum is turning
• Check that the idler pulley spins freely, replace if needed

Damaged blower wheel

The blower wheel circulates air through the dryer. Problems lead to:

• Loud rattling or flapping noise
• Check the blower wheel for damage, replace it if the blades are broken

Frayed drive belt

The drive belt turns the drum and blower. As it frays:

• Thumping or slapping noise
• Replace the belt if deteriorating or damaged

Worn drive motor

The drive motor powers the drum and blower. When its bearings fail:

• Squealing noise when running
• Replace the motor if any odd noise or friction felt

Remember: always unplug the dryer before inspecting internal parts. Safety first! Replacing worn rollers, belts and pulleys is an inexpensive fix to quiet things down inside your dryer.

3. Dryer won’t start

If your dryer suddenly stops working and refuses to start, it can be infuriating. However, several common issues could be preventing your dryer from starting up. Here is an overview of the top causes and solutions for an electric dryer that won’t start:

Check the power supply

The first thing to check is whether your dryer is getting the proper power it needs to operate. Here’s what you need to inspect:

• Circuit breakers – Reset any tripped breakers. If they immediately trip again, they may need replacing.
• Wall socket voltage – Use a multimeter to check for 240V for electric or 120V for gas. If the voltage is low, the socket or breakers may need replacing.

Inspect the thermal fuse

The thermal fuse shuts off power if temps get too high inside the dryer. To check it:

• Test it for continuity using a multimeter. No continuity means it’s blown and needs replacing.
• Check the dryer vent for blockages which can cause the fuse to blow. Clear any lint buildup.

Check the door switch

The door switch is a safety device that prevents the dryer from operating when the door is open.

• Test switch contacts for continuity using a multimeter. No continuity means replacing the switch.
• Inspect the switch actuator arm for damage. Replace if broken.

Examine the drive belt

The drive belt turns the drum. If broken, the dryer won’t start due to a safety feature.

• Visually inspect the belt for damage. Replace if torn or cracked.
• Check if the belt has slipped off the pulley. Re-route if required.

Test the belt switch

This safety switch disables the dryer if the belt breaks or falls off.

• Disconnect switch wires and test contacts for continuity using a multimeter.
• Manually trip the switch by lifting the pulley arm. If there is no continuity, replace the switch.

Be methodical and patient when testing components. Rushing leads to misdiagnosing boards or replacing good parts unnecessarily.

Tips for maintaining a dryer in Los Angeles

Daily Maintenance

Clean the Lint Trap

Be sure to clean out the lint trap before every load. This simple step helps prevent fire hazards and keeps your dryer running efficiently.

Monthly Checkups

Brush Out the Vent Ducts

Use a specialized brush to remove lint buildup from the exhaust ducts once a month.

Vacuum the Interior

Take 10 minutes to vacuum out any lint in the blower fan and inside the dryer cabinet.

Inspect Belts and Pulleys

Check that belts and pulleys aren’t showing signs of wear each month. Replace if needed.

Biannual Deep Cleaning

Every 6 Months

Detach and rinse the ductwork. Remove any built-up lint and grime.

Inspect drum seals. Look for tears or gaps that could compromise drying performance.

Lubricate idler pulleys and rollers. Keep all moving parts running smoothly.

Clean moisture sensors. Remove and deep clean these essential components.

Annual Maintenance

Replace Parts as Needed

If belts or rollers show significant wear after a year, replace them preventatively.

Thorough Cleaning

Brush motor windings, clean the blower housing/wheel, and confirm all electrical connections are secure.

Inspect Venting

Check the exhaust ducting for leaks or blockages that could impact drying or safety.

With Los Angeles’ hot, dry climate, your dryer works constantly. Stay on top of maintenance to avoid unexpected repairs down the road. A few minutes each month can extend its lifespan significantly.

DIY first, professional help second

Understandably, unknown electrical and gas systems inside home appliances intimidate people. Paying a technician to handle dryer repairs seems convenient. However, service calls starting at $100 per hour rack up costs quickly even for minor fixes.

Arming yourself with the right DIY knowledge helps avoid those annoying service fees. Learn how dryers work, take logical troubleshooting steps, and tap into AppliancePartsPros.com’s extensive repair resources.

Tackling repairs yourself keeps hard-earned money in your pocket long-term. Once finished, you’ll gain confidence to diagnose and fix other common household machine issues on your own too.

Now we invite you to join our growing community of skilled home appliance owners. Start by:

• Visiting the AppliancePartsPros.com DIY blog for daily repair tips.
• Subscribing to us on our YouTube channel for regular repair videos and troubleshooting guides.
• Following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to interact with our community.

We look forward to helping you out on your next dryer or other home appliance repair project soon!