If you notice that your dryer gets hot, but you don’t have any idea how to find out, there are several signs that you should pay attention to. These signs include lack of airflow, clogged vents, and overheating. Before you can solve the problem, though, you’ll need to identify the cause of the overheating, which could be a faulty thermostat, a lint filter, or something else.
Cleaning the lint filter
If you have a clothes dryer that gets hot, cleaning the lint filter should be high on your priority list. A clogged lint filter can increase drying time, and cause your dryer to work harder and use more energy. It is also a fire hazard.
Cleaning the lint filter can help increase the lifespan of your appliance. Some newer models remind you to check the lint filter after every cycle. You can clean the lint filter with a nylon brush or cloth.
Lint is made up of tiny bits of fabric fibers that shed from clothing. When the dryer is not working properly, lint can accumulate and get caught in the heating system. Not only can this make your dryer work harder and use more energy, but it can also create a fire hazard.
A clean lint screen prevents lint from accumulating, which can reduce airflow. The filter should be cleaned every one to three dryer loads. Clean the screen with a soft bristled brush or damp cloth. Let it air dry completely before reinserting.
Lint can build up in other corners of the dryer, and can even be a fire hazard if it gets too hot. Depending on the type of clothes you wear, your maintenance frequency will vary. However, if your dryer struggles to cope with your laundry needs, it may be time to buy a new model.
If you have an up front lint filter, it is easy to clean. Remove two screws. Pull the screen out with your finger. This should not be done with water, as lint can be difficult to remove with wet hands.
Lint filters should be cleaned periodically with a dish detergent solution. Use a soft bristled brush to gently scrub the screen. Rinse with warm water and let it air dry.
Lack of airflow
Having a dryer that gets hot is no fun. It not only takes up more energy, but also damages textiles. The reason is that a dryer needs airflow in order to function properly. Without proper airflow, there is no space to tumble the clothes and the moisture will remain trapped inside.
There are several ways to identify if you have a problem with your dryer’s air flow. Some of the common issues include a clogged lint screen, a clogged dryer vent and a faulty heating element. If any of these are the cause of your dryer’s problems, you may need to repair them.
To clean your dryer vent, you should turn your dryer on and then leave it outside. You should then feel for hot air to see if it’s flowing. Also check for kinks in the venting hose. This is an easy way to remove clogs and improve airflow.
Another thing you should do is check your wall cap. It’s possible that you are using a cap that is limiting your dryer’s airflow. A cap can also be a safety hazard if it’s not secure.
The best way to fix a dryer’s airflow problem is to have an authorized service technician look at it. An authorized technician will be able to test the appliance and tell you whether it’s in good working order. They will also be able to inspect your heating elements and recommend any repairs.
A clogged lint screen is probably the most common culprit of a dryer’s airflow problem. Lint clogs can be caused by a buildup of dust and lint on the screen or in the duct.
Clogged vent
If you have a clogged dryer vent, you’ll have a harder time getting your clothes dry. This could result in damaged clothes, a shortened drying cycle, and higher energy bills. Not to mention, you’ll have to pay to repair your dryer.
However, if you clean your dryer vent, you can get your clothes dry again. Here are some of the things to look for to tell if your dryer vent is clogged.
Lint. Fortunately, lint is not difficult to clear. You can use a vacuum cleaner to get rid of the lint in your vent. Just be careful not to touch the exhaust pipe.
Clogged vents can also lead to a house fire. Fires resulting from a clogged dryer vent cause more than a hundred injuries and millions of dollars in property damage each year. It’s not uncommon for homeowners to ignore a clogged vent, but if you don’t act, you could end up with a blaze of your own.
A clogged vent can also leave your clothes damp. This can be especially problematic if your family has pets. Pet hair can build up inside your vent system, resulting in a fire hazard. Luckily, most vents aren’t hard to detach and clean.
The duct hood is another common place where a clog can occur. If your duct hood flap doesn’t open, you have a clogged dryer vent.
Clogged vents can also lead you to a number of other problems. In addition to having hot clothes, you may also be left with a burning smell from your dryer. That is a good indicator that your lint filter needs a cleaning. Keeping your lint screen clean will keep your dryer running smoothly.
Overheating
Overheating in a dryer can cause serious damage to your clothing. While there is no way to completely eliminate the risk of overheating, there are a few things you can do to mitigate its effects. In particular, you should make sure you have a cycling thermostat, and a lint trap. If you don’t, you may find that your clothes are ruined in no time.
One of the most common reasons for overheating in a dryer is a clogged airflow vent. It’s a good idea to make sure your dryer has a lint trap and airflow vent. You should also make sure you don’t put too much clothing into the dryer. This will reduce the amount of airflow and heat that the machine uses.
Some other tips include having the correct dryer settings and taking the time to read the manual. A faulty heating element will not only cause your clothes to overheat, but it could ruin your dryer altogether.
The same thing goes for a clogged exhaust screen. Getting the right setting and removing humid lint from the ducts will also minimize the risk of overheating.
To get the best results, you should opt for a dryer with a temperature range of 140-185 degrees Fahrenheit. If you aren’t certain, you can use a thermometer to check the temperature. Using a dryer with a temperature of 149 degrees is the next best bet.
If you are still unsure, don’t be afraid to call the Dryer Vent Cleaning Monster. They’ll come out and help you out. Remember, a clogged dryer vent can lead to a house fire.
With a little maintenance and a bit of planning, you can avoid overheating in a dryer for years to come.
Signs that your dryer is getting too hot
Excessively hot dryers can be dangerous, so it’s important to know what signs yours is getting too hot. If yours is too hot, it can burn your clothes, ruin delicate garments and turn your house into a fire hazard.
One of the first signs that your dryer is getting too hot is if the drum is too hot. This can be due to a number of reasons. It can be caused by a faulty heating element or a bad sensor.
Another cause is a blocked exhaust vent. Lint and fabric fuzz can collect in the vent, resulting in excessive heat. You can remove lint from the duct with a vacuum cleaner and wand attachment.
A cycling thermostat can be a problem, as well. Check the thermistor resistance with a multimeter. Then, check the airflow in the dryer.
You should also ensure that your lint trap is clean. Lint is a flammable substance, so it’s important to keep it clear.
A clogged hose or exhaust vent can also cause your dryer to get too hot. Clean the hose and vent using a ventilation cleaning kit. If this does not solve the problem, it’s time to call a professional.
Some dryers are equipped with a safety thermostat. These are designed to cut off the heating source if they detect too much heat.
When the dryer is running, touch the top. If you feel the temperature of the top, it’s likely that the vent is clogged.
If the temperature is still high after you have cleaned the vent, it’s likely that you have a bad heating element or a faulty sensor. Depending on your appliance, you may have to replace it.