How to maintain your Samsung dryer to prevent heating issues

No matter what type of appliances you have, they all need regular cleaning and maintenance to deliver the best results.

Whether your Samsung dryer hasn’t been heating properly or you’re wanting to prevent future problems, you’ll be glad to know that most issues can be prevented with just a bit of DIY maintenance.

If you need any replacement parts for your Samsung 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.

Important: The information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Samsung dryer maintenance tips

By taking good care of your Samsung dryer, you can extend its life and avoid frustrating heating issues that can slow down your laundry routine. Here are some regular maintenance tips to keep your Samsung dryer in top shape and prevent common heating problems.

Clean the lint filter

Dryers are all about airflow, and lack of it is what tends to cause dryer fires. Make it a habit to clean the lint trap after every load.

To remove stubborn debris, remove the screen and gently wash it with warm water and a little soap. Make sure the lint screen is completely dry before placing it back in the dryer.

You should never use a dryer with a damaged or missing lint trap.

Clean the dryer’s vent and ducting

Every 3-4 months, check the dryer vent and exhaust duct for lint buildup. If the dryer feels unusually hot on the outside, that usually means that it’s time to clean the vent. 

A long, flexible brush or a vacuum attachment can help reach inside the vent. Make sure to clean the entire length of the venting system to remove as much lint as possible.

Make sure the duct is securely connected to the dryer and not crushed behind it. If you notice any damage, replace the duct before using your dryer again. Whenever possible, use rigid metal ducting instead of a flexible one, as it’s less prone to crushing and trapping flammable lint.

Inspect the dryer exhaust vent

The exhaust vent connects your dryer ducting to the outside of your home. Make sure the exhaust vent flaps and opening are clean and free of buildup such as lint, dirt, leaves and bird nests.

Avoid overloading the dryer

Overloading your dryer forces it to work harder and can cause uneven drying, overheating, or damage to various parts. Laundry needs space to tumble so hot air can circulate properly.

Keep the dryer drum clean

Leftover fabric softener, dryer sheets, and lint can build up inside the dryer drum. Every few months, take a minute to wipe down the inside of the drum with a damp cloth to remove any residue. For a deeper clean, you can use a mixture of water and white vinegar.

Pay special attention to the sensor bars, if your dryer has them. You can use a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to wipe them clean.

Promptly replace faulty parts

If you notice any unusual noises, extended drying times, or temperature fluctuations, address the problem right away and replace a part if necessary. Replacing bad parts as soon as you find them can prevent more serious breakdowns later on and extend the life of your dryer.

Keep the dryer exterior clean

A well-ventilated area around your dryer reduces the risk of the unit overheating. Dryers should have several inches of clearance all around — especially at the back — so heat can disperse. You should also keep the surrounding space free of dust and clutter to reduce heat in the space and minimize the chance of a fire.

Read more: Samsung Dryer Not Heating Help

What are the most common parts to fail in a Samsung dryer?

Some parts tend to wear out sooner than others in dryers. Here are a few of them.

• Heating element: The heating element generates heat in the dryer. Over time, it can burn out or become damaged.
• Thermal fuse: This is a safety device that cuts off power to the dryer if it overheats. If the thermal fuse blows, it will need to be replaced to restore heating.
• Drive belt: The drive belt rotates the drum in the dryer. If the belt becomes worn or breaks, the drum may not spin properly.
• Rollers and bearings: Rollers and bearings support the drum as it rotates. As they become worn over time, they can prevent the drum from rotating smoothly.
• Idler pulley: The idler pulley helps maintain tension on the drive belt. If it wears out, it can cause the belt to slip or break.
• Door switch: The door switch acts as a safety device by stopping the dryer from running when the door is opened. If the switch is faulty, the dryer may not turn on or may not stop when the door is opened, which is a major safety hazard.

Can I replace Samsung dryer parts myself?

Yes! You can replace most Samsung dryer parts yourself if you have the necessary materials and replacement pieces. When handling heavier dryer parts, you may need assistance from another person.

Read more: Samsung Dryer Repair Help

Additional information

Thanks for reading!

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