Dryer Turns Hot However Doesn't Dry Totally - Diagnoses & Fixes
Is your dryer getting scorching hot but leaving your laundry damp no matter how many cycles you run? This frustrating issue of a dryer heating up but failing to fully dry garments is a common appliance malfunction many homeowners unfortunately encounter.
But don't despair, as the inability of your dryer to dry clothes even though it gets hot can often be fixed with some easy DIY troubleshooting and repairs. Read on as we diagnose what causes a dryer to get hot yet not dry properly, and how to troubleshoot and fix this problem so you can get your dryer drying effectively again.
Common Causes For A Dryer Getting Hot But Not Drying Properly
There are several potential culprits that could lead to your dryer getting hot but leaving clothes wet:
- Lint buildup restricting airflow and reducing drying efficiency
- Blown thermal fuse stopping heat to dryer
- Faulty cycling thermostat causing dryer to not heat properly
- Clogged or broken exhaust vent trap preventing proper ventilation
- Worn out heating element unable to produce adequate heat
- Defective moisture sensors giving false readings on wetness
- Clogged lint filter or lint trap blocking airflow and heat
- Loose or broken drive belt slipping and not turning drum
Lint accumulation over time is one of the most common culprits of dryer failure. Lint blocks airflow, meaning the heating element can't properly warm air to dry clothes. A clogged lint filter or a vent trap clogged with lint are prime causes of reduced airflow.
If the thermal fuse is blown, it will stop electric power from reaching the heating element. No heat equals no drying. A worn out heating element may still get hot, but not generate enough heat to get your clothes dry. Issues with thermostats, moisture sensors, and drive belts can also hamper the drying process.
Unanswered concepts to augment understanding:
- Best practices for washing machine usage to optimize dryer performance
- Tips for preventing dryer lint buildup and preventing dryer fires
- Best practices for dryer maintenance and upkeep
- Warning signs of impending dryer failure and common dryer repairs
- Differences between gas and electric dryers and how to troubleshoot dryers that use either
How To Troubleshoot A Dryer That Gets Hot But Leaves Clothes Damp
Don't just live with a dryer getting hot yet failing to dry your clothes. Take these troubleshooting steps to diagnose the issue:
- Check lint filter and exhaust vent for blockages
- Verify exhaust vent is properly ventilated outside
- Test heating element for continuity and replace if faulty
- Test cycling thermostat and replace if defective
- Inspect drive belt and pulleys for damage and slippage
- Remove back panel and clean out lint buildup throughout dryer
- Check moisture sensors for false readings and replace if needed
- Test thermal fuse for continuity and replace if blown
- Confirm blower fan runs smoothly and isn't obstructed
Start by cleaning the lint filter and removing any lint trapped in the exhaust vent or external vent hood. Inspect the venting ductwork for kinks or damage. Make sure the system is clear and ventilating outside properly.
Use a multimeter to check the heating element for continuity. If defective, replacing the heating element should restore proper heat. Also test the thermostats, moisture sensors, thermal fuse, and any other electronics using a multimeter and replacing parts as needed.
Inspect the drive belt for slippage and replace if stretched out. Remove back panels and clean out any lint accumulation throughout the dryer body that could block airflow. Confirm the blower fan runs smoothly without obstruction.
Tips For Fixing A Dryer That Warms Up But Doesn't Dry
Once you've diagnosed why your dryer is getting hot yet failing to dry clothes, follow these handy tips to complete the repair:
- Clean lint trap and exhaust duct thoroughly to improve airflow
- Replace worn out or defective heating element
- Swap out faulty cycling thermostat
- Fix damaged or slipping drive belt
- Clear any lint obstruction and buildup in dryer body
- Install new thermal fuse if original is blown
- Check moisture sensors and replace inaccurate ones
- Ensure venting ductwork is clear and properly exhausted outside
- Confirm heating element, thermostats, and fuses get 120v power
Give your dryer a deep clean by thoroughly cleaning the lint filter, exhaust vent duct, vent hood, and interior. Vacuum out any lint, use compressed air to clear blockages, and scrub interior surfaces.
Replace any defective parts like the thermal fuse, thermostat, moisture sensors, or heating element. Ensure proper electrical connections. Inspect all wiring and confirm proper voltage to key components.
Repair venting and ductwork so moist air exhausts outside efficiently. Replace drive belts that are loose or worn. Lubricate any squeaky motors or pulleys. Verify all components are functioning optimally so your dryer can heat up and dry clothes effectively.
Unanswered concepts to augment understanding:
- How to properly store and maintain dryer ductwork to prevent lint buildup and dryer fires
- Common signs of dryer ductwork damage and how to repair or replace damaged ductwork
- Tips for preventing moisture buildup in dryer doors and preventing mold growth
- How to properly dispose of old dryers and what to look for in a new dryer purchase
- How to prevent dryer noise and vibrations during operation
Steps To Improve Drying When Dryer Is Hot But Clothes Are Still Wet
Try these handy steps to optimize your machine so clothes come out completely dry:
- Clean lint filter before every load
- Scrub interior drum to remove lint residues
- Check outside dryer vent exhaust hood is clear of debris
- Use rigid metal venting ductwork for maximum airflow
- Verify dryer is level and not rocking which can restrict airflow
- Upgrade to a heavy-duty drive belt if original is slipping
- Avoid overloading dryer drum which hampers airflow
- Clean moisture sensors so they read correctly
- Reduce lint buildup by cleaning ducts annually
Prevent lint accumulation through vigilant cleaning before each load and deep cleaning the ducts annually. Avoid overstuffing the drum, which hampers airflow. Upgrade components like drive belts to heavy-duty versions.
Ensure the dryer is properly leveled without any rocking, which can block airflow. Use rigid metal venting ducts to maximize airflow. Keep ductwork straight and smooth without kinks. Verify the exterior vent exhaust hood is clear of obstructions.
Your dryer should now get clothes completely dry without leaving them damp, thanks to improved air flow and ventilating.