In the process of operation, the dryer, like any other household appliances, heats up a little – this is completely normal. However, the dryer should not be heated when not in use.
First of all, it is important to find out if the tumble dryer heats up when it is not running, or if it simply cools down for too long after use. If unsure, allow the dryer to cool slightly after use.
Then try to determine if the appliance emits heat, even if you haven’t used it for a long time. If so, it means that the heating element is still heating up even if it shouldn’t.
There are 3 main reasons why this can happen: the heating element is in contact with another metal part inside the machine, the timer is faulty, and the heating element switch is stuck. In the article, we will consider these causes of malfunctions and how to fix them.
Wear and malfunction of the heating element
The heating element must generate heat in a predetermined amount for normal operation of the dryer. It doesn’t matter what model and shape the heating element is, in any case its inner part consists of spiral wires made of various metals, which can generate heat very efficiently. The heating element achieves this by allowing electrical current to pass through the coils while resisting it.
As heat is generated, a blower wheel or fan will push this hot air through the drum and out through the vent. However, as the unit wears out, its design may be disrupted and breakdowns may occur.
Over time, the coils of the heating element can break and come into contact with other metal parts inside the dryer. In doing so, the electric current will continue to flow and heat the coils even if the dryer is not running. Such a situation can be dangerous, as a short circuit of equipment or its fire is possible.
In order to fix this problem, it is best to completely replace the heating element with a new one. Keep the user manual handy. This will greatly simplify the search for a replacement heating element.
Before making this or any other repairs to your tumble dryer, you must disconnect the appliance from the power source. This will eliminate the risk of electric shock and also prevent injury.
The procedure for replacing the heating element will be as follows:
- To access the heating element, you need to remove the rear panel of the dryer. The heating element is usually located next to the fan. Disconnect all electrical connections from the heating element.
- Then remove any bolts or screws holding the heating element body in place. Remove the thermostat, you will still need it.
- Refit the new heating element. Attach the high limit thermostat to it and tighten all screws or bolts.
- Finally, reconnect the electrical connectors and attach the rear panel of the dryer.
After installing a new heating element, turn on the dryer and make sure it works properly.
Switch stuck
Dryer motors have a switch connected to the heating element. It is sometimes called the “heating switch” or “heater switch”. Whatever it’s called on your dryer model, they all work the same: it’s a centrifugal switch that only supplies power to the heater when the motor is on and running.
When the drying cycle ends and the motor stops rotating, the switch is disabled and stops supplying power to the heater. As a result, the heater and dryer cool down.
The problem with the engine heater switch is that it can sometimes get stuck in the on position. Thus, even when the drying cycle is over and the machine is not running, the switch will continue to turn on the heater and keep the dryer hot.
When the drying cycle ends and the motor stops rotating, the switch is disabled and stops supplying power to the heater. As a result, the heater and dryer cool down.
The problem with the engine heater switch is that it can sometimes get stuck in the on position. Thus, even when the drying cycle is over and the machine is not running, the switch will continue to turn on the heater and keep the dryer hot.
To fix the problem, it will be necessary to replace the dryer motor block and with it the terminal block. Proceed in the following order:
- Disconnect the device from the power supply. This will eliminate the risk of electric shock and also prevent injury. Keep the user manual and technical data sheet handy.
- To replace the motor, you first need to remove the drum from the front of the unit. Then you will need to access the engine by removing the back panel as well.
- The dryer motor will be located behind the fan.
- Start by disconnecting all electrical connectors on the motor and any bolts that might hold it in place.
- Once this is done, you can remove the engine and replace it with a new one.
Then reassemble everything in the reverse order and check the operation of the dryer.
Timer malfunction
The timers in the dryer consist of a small motor and gears that help turn the electrical contacts on and off. They are located behind the control panel. The timer coordinates the functions of the dryer, transferring power to specific components, such as the dryer heating element, only as needed. Once the timer reaches the end of the cycle, none of the electrical contacts will receive power and all parts of the dryer will shut off.
If the tumble dryer heats up when it is not running, there is a chance that the timer is defective. More precisely, the electrical contacts in the dryer that are connected to the heating element get stuck in the “on” position even after the drying cycle is complete. As a result, the heating element will continue to receive power and heat even when you are not using the dryer. This creates a serious fire hazard.
To fix this, you will need to replace the dryer timer. The algorithm of actions is as follows:
- Always disconnect the appliance from the power supply before carrying out repairs to the tumble dryer.
- To access the dryer timer you need to remove the back panel. When you remove it, you can see the timer and the bolts holding it in place.
- Remove the fixing bolts and disconnect all electrical connectors attached to the timer.
- Take a snapshot of the connectors so you can refer to them for replacement later.
- Подсоедините провода к новому таймеру и установите блок на место.
Затем соберите детали в обратном порядке и панель. После ремонта следует проверить работоспособность сушилки.