6 The Most Common Dryer Problems and How to Fix Them (DIY + Dryer Repair Tips)

If your dryer isn’t working right, you’re not alone — most households run into dryer problems at some point. As a professional appliance repair company, we’ve fixed thousands of dryers, and here are the 6 the most common dryer problems we see — along with practical tips on how to troubleshoot them.

Whether you’re in Seattle, Bellevue, or anywhere nearby, these solutions may save you time and money.

1. Dryer Not Heating Up If your gas or electric dryer stopped heating up I broke down the most cases of this problem. Symptoms: Dryer drum turning and running but no heat at all.

Top 3 Common causes:

• Blown thermal fuse

• Faulty heating element

• Broken thermostat  • Faulty control board or timer dial (on older models)

DIY fix:

• Turn off the power to your dryer by switching oof the circuit breaker

• Start disassembling dryer (You can find the most dryers disassembly on YouTube)

• Locate thermal fuse, heating element and thermostat and check it for continuity with your multimeter. You should hear a beep - that would mean they are working. Most likely you will have only one element bad. Find out which is broken and replace.

When to call a pro:

If you don’t have a multimeter or feel unsure — this is where a certified dryer repair technician in Seattle can help.

2. Dryer Takes Forever to Dry

Likely cause: Blocked or restricted airflow.

DIY fix:

• Clean the lint filter after every load.

• Inspect and clean the dryer vent hose — even partial clogs can double your dry time. You can go outside and locate the vent of the dryer and check if it blows air. Most cases you will find a lot of lint accumulated right at the end of the vent.

3. Dryer Won’t Start or Turn On

Check for:

• Your outlet is faulty, and Dryer don't get enough power

• Defective door switch

• Broken start button • Faulty control Board

DIY fix:

• Check the power in your outlet if you have a multimeter. Electric Dryer needs 240V, Gas Dryer needs 120V. If you don't have a multimeter better to call a professional in Seattle and have it done for you

• Check the door switch for continuity. It should beep when switch is closed and no beep when open

• If the control panel lights up but nothing happens, the start switch or control board may be the problem.

4. Dryer Makes Loud Noises

If your dryer starts making a lot of noise such as squealing, banging or high pitch sounds call a certified appliance repair professional as soon as possible, because it will end up with a bigger problem

Common causes:

• Worn-out drum rollers

• Bad idler pulley

• Bad drum bearings

DIY check:

• Turn the drum by hand — if it’s stiff or squeaky, it likely needs service.

• Grinding or thumping sounds usually mean a part is worn out.

5. Dryer Drum Isn’t Spinning

Most likely: A snapped drive belt or faulty motor. or door switch.

DIY test:

• Open the top panel (if you’re comfortable) and inspect the belt.

• If it’s loose or broken — it needs replacement.

6. Dryer Won’t Stop Running

Cause:

• Defective timer or main control board

DIY attempt:

• Try a reset: unplug for 5 minutes.

• If it keeps happening, it needs proper diagnostic from a professional and evaluate the problem.

Final Tip: Don’t Wait Too Long

Dryer issues usually start small — and then get expensive. If you notice strange sounds, slow drying, or a lack of heat, act fast.

Looking for dryer repair in Seattle, Bellevue, or nearby?

We offer fast, reliable appliance repair — with same-day service in many cases.

Call us now or book online to get your dryer running like new Why Trust Us With Your Dryer Repair?

Fixme Appliance Repair is not just another appliance repair service — we’ve been in this

game for years and have seen it all. From simple fixes to total dryer breakdowns, our team has handled hundreds of dryer repairs across Seattle, Bellevue, and nearby areas. We know how frustrating appliance issues can be, and we know how to fix them — fast, properly, and without wasting your time.

Whether it’s a Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, GE, or Maytag — we’ve fixed every major brand and model. Our experience means we can diagnose problems quicker, carry the right parts, and give you honest advice without the usual runaround.