How To Fix A Tumble Dryer That Won't Work
If your tumble dryer isn't responding, refusing to work, you may lose hope and simply believe your machine is broken and needs replacing.
This is not always the case, and it may just be one component that is broken, causing your machine to stop working. So don't go running off to the shops just yet! Take the time to see if you yourself can identify the cause, and repair your machine, saving your wallet from the costs of a new device or an expensive service man.
The Door Switch
The door switch is the part that actually allows the tumble dryer to start only when the door is closed. As a safety device, this may be the cause of your machine not starting if it is broken. The door switch is generally located behind the front panel with the switch button going into the door opening.
You can test this part with a multi meter to see if there's energy continuity. Test with the terminals marker "C" and "NO", looking for a reading of 0 ohms when the door is closed or the button is pushed down.
The Thermal Fuse
This is another safety device that is found in some dryers and prevents overheating. As a heat sensitive fuse, if the temperature becomes too hot, then the fuse will interrupt the power going to the motor and stop the dryer from functioning.
Obviously if faulty, this can evidently cause your machine to stop working. Check the user manual to see if one of the parts in your machine is a thermal fuse, and see where it is located.
Next, check for continuity with a multi meter.
The Rotary Or Push Start Switch
Found in the dryer's main console, when pressed, the start switch sends power to the drive motor and effectively starts the dryer tumbling. Again, obviously if faulty, the dryer won't start. The switch can be tested for continuity using a multi meter, and will need replacing if faulty.
The Main Control Board
Electronic controlled dryers use a circuit board to operate the dryer's components, and this is normally located in the dryer's main control panel. This is also something to inspect if your dryer is not starting.
The Timer
Located in the control panel, the timer controls electrical contacts that will tell the machine what to do at certain times. The timer contacts control the dryer motor as well as the heat circuit, and so of course a defective timer can prevent power from getting to the drive motor. If this is the case, then the timer will need replacing. The contacts can be checked for continuity with a multi meter with power removed from the machine.
The Terminal Block
If your dryer is blowing fuses, or tripping circuit switches in your household's main electrical panel, then the cause could be because of a faulty terminal block. This component connects the internal wires of the dryer to the power cord. Loose connections at the terminal block will then overheat, fail, and also can be a fire hazard. Make sure power is disconnected, then access the terminal block to check visually for signs of overheated wires/terminals. If this is the case, then the terminal block will definitely need replacing and damaged wires will need repairing or replacing.
Get In Touch
If you're having trouble diagnosing a problem with your machine, or can't find the spare parts you are searching for, then feel free to get in touch with us. You can fill out our contact form here on our website, or send us an email on info@fiyo.co.uk