Dryer repair for gas and electric dryers
Dryer problems split into two groups: no heat or weak heat, and mechanical trouble such as no tumbling or loud noise. Airflow comes first in nearly every diagnosis because a restricted vent makes an otherwise healthy dryer seem broken.
Dryer problems and likely causes
| Problem | Likely causes | Try first |
|---|---|---|
| Tumbles, no heat (electric) | Tripped breaker leg, thermal fuse, heating element | Reset the double breaker |
| Tumbles, no heat (gas) | Igniter, gas valve coils, flame sensor | Make sure the gas valve is open |
| Takes 2 or more cycles to dry | Clogged vent, full lint screen, weak element | Clean the screen, check the vent |
| Won't start | Door switch, thermal fuse, start switch | Shut the door firmly |
| Thumping or squealing | Worn drum rollers, idler pulley, belt | Note when the noise starts |
| Shuts off early | Overheating from a blocked vent, thermostat | Check the outside vent flap |
| Burning smell | Lint near the heater, failing motor | Stop using it and call |
Dryer not heating? Common problems we fix
Tumbles but no heat (electric)
A blown thermal fuse, a failed high-limit thermostat or a burned-out heating element are the usual causes. A dryer that has lost only one leg of its 240V breaker will also tumble with no heat, so we check the circuit too.
Tumbles but no heat (gas)
The igniter may glow but fail to open the gas valve, the valve coils may be weak or the flame sensor may be faulty. If you ever smell gas, leave the home and call your gas utility first.
Takes two or more cycles to dry
Restricted airflow is the most common reason: a full lint trap, a crushed duct or a clogged exterior vent. A partly failing heating element can produce the same symptom.
Doesn't tumble, thumps or squeals
A broken drive belt, a worn idler pulley or worn drum support rollers cause these. Noise from the drum area usually means a part is wearing out, not a random rattle.
Quick dryer checks before you call
- Clean the lint screen after every load and wash the screen occasionally with soap and water if it's coated with dryer-sheet film.
- Pull the dryer forward and check the duct for kinks or crushing; use metal duct, not foil or plastic.
- On an electric dryer, check that both sides of the double breaker are on.
- Don't run the dryer if you smell burning or see scorch marks.
What happens on a dryer repair visit
Airflow comes first. We check it at the vent, then test the fuse, the thermostats and the heating element or gas ignition.
Elements, fuses, belts and igniters are common one-visit repairs. If a blocked vent caused the failure, we'll show you so it doesn't happen again.
What we check
- Measure airflow at the exhaust and look for lint restriction in the duct run.
- Test the thermal fuse, thermostats and heating element or gas ignition components.
- Check that both breaker poles are delivering power on electric models.
- Inspect the belt, idler pulley, drum rollers and motor for wear.
- Confirm the door switch and start circuit respond properly.
These are the repairs most often needed for this kind of appliance:
- Heating element or thermal fuse replacement
- Gas igniter or valve coil replacement
- Drive belt, idler pulley or drum roller replacement
- Vent cleaning and airflow correction
We confirm the exact repair after we diagnose it. If the part is on hand, we can usually finish in one visit.
Older or specialty parts sometimes have to be ordered. A diagnostic / service-call fee applies.
Dryer types we repair
Gas or electric, vented or ventless, we repair it.
- Electric dryers
- Gas dryers
- Stacked washer and dryer
- Ventless and heat-pump dryers
- Steam dryers
- Compact dryers
Is your dryer worth repairing?
Dryers commonly last about 10 to 13 years. Elements, fuses, belts and rollers are inexpensive parts relative to a new dryer, so repair is often the better choice unless the drum, motor and controls are all showing age.
Why dust and long vents slow Abilene dryers
West Texas air is dry, so clothes should dry quickly. If yours take much longer than they used to, that's a useful warning sign to have the vent checked.
Fine dust that gets into laundry rooms and garages adds to lint buildup. Long vent runs to an outside wall, give lint more room to collect.
Dryer brands we repair
Every brand, including Whirlpool, Maytag, Samsung, LG, GE, Electrolux, Speed Queen and Kenmore. Look for the model number on a label inside the door.
See all appliance brands we repair.
Dryer repair across Abilene
We repair dryers all over Abilene, including Downtown, Elmwood, Chimney Rock, Abilene Heights, Westwood Richland and River Oaks / Brookhollow.
Not on the list? We still come to you. See all service areas.
Dryer repair FAQs
How often should the dryer vent be cleaned?
At least once a year, and more often with heavy use or a long duct run. Failure to clean dryers is a leading cause of dryer fires, so it's worth doing even when the dryer seems fine.
Why does my dryer make clothes hot but damp?
That usually means heat is fine but moist air isn't leaving the drum. A clogged vent is the first thing to check.
How long does a dryer repair take?
Most element, fuse and belt repairs take about an hour. Gas valve work can take a little longer.
Is a dryer that won't heat a fire risk?
It can be. A blocked vent makes the dryer overheat, and the safety parts cut the heat. Never bypass a blown thermal fuse. Clean the vent and get the cause found.
Do you repair gas dryers?
Yes. If you smell gas, leave the home and call your gas utility first. Our dryer not heating guide covers both types.
Should I replace my dryer vent?
If it's plastic or foil, yes. Metal duct is safer and stays clearer.
Is there a diagnostic fee?
Yes, a diagnostic / service-call fee applies. Ask for the current fee when you schedule.
Need a dryer looked at today? Call (325) 876-4452 for same-day or 24-hour emergency service in Abilene, or send a service request.