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Find relief now: unmask the reasons behind your lg dryer’s relentless cycle

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • The moisture sensor plays a crucial role in determining when the clothes inside the dryer have reached the desired level of dryness.
  • A faulty sensor may send incorrect signals to the dryer’s control board, causing it to run indefinitely in an attempt to dry the clothes further.
  • A faulty door switch may not register that the door is closed, causing the dryer to run continuously in an attempt to maintain a safe operating temperature.

If your LG dryer has developed a persistent habit of running without ceasing, it can be an annoying and frustrating problem. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience at first, it can lead to wasted energy, increased wear and tear on the appliance, and potentially even safety hazards. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the possible reasons behind this issue and provide practical solutions to restore your dryer to its intended operation.

Common Causes of LG Dryer Running Continuously

1. Faulty Moisture Sensor:

The moisture sensor plays a crucial role in determining when the clothes inside the dryer have reached the desired level of dryness. A faulty sensor may send incorrect signals to the dryer’s control board, causing it to run indefinitely in an attempt to dry the clothes further.

2. Malfunctioning Control Board:

The control board is the brain of the dryer, responsible for managing all its functions. A malfunctioning control board can disrupt the normal operation of the dryer, leading to issues such as continuous running.

3. Clogged Vent:

A clogged vent can restrict the flow of hot air, causing the dryer to work harder to expel moisture. This increased effort can lead to overheating and continuous running.

4. Overloaded Dryer:

Overloading the dryer can put excessive strain on the motor and other components. This can cause the dryer to overheat and run excessively to compensate for the increased load.

5. Worn-out Drum Belt:

The drum belt connects the motor to the dryer drum, allowing it to rotate. A worn-out belt can slip, causing the drum to stop rotating while the motor continues to run. This can result in the dryer running continuously without effectively drying the clothes.

6. Faulty Door Switch:

The door switch is responsible for detecting when the dryer door is closed. A faulty door switch may not register that the door is closed, causing the dryer to run continuously in an attempt to maintain a safe operating temperature.

7. Broken or Loose Thermistor:

The thermistor is a temperature sensor that monitors the heat inside the dryer. A broken or loose thermistor can provide incorrect temperature readings, leading to the dryer running excessively or not heating properly.

Troubleshooting and Solutions

1. Check the Moisture Sensor:

Clean the moisture sensor located inside the dryer drum with a soft cloth. If the sensor is damaged or appears faulty, it may need to be replaced.

2. Reset the Control Board:

Unplug the dryer from the power outlet and wait for a few minutes. Plug it back in and start a new cycle. This simple reset can sometimes resolve control board issues.

3. Clean the Vent:

Disconnect the dryer vent hose from the dryer and use a vacuum cleaner to remove any lint or debris. Check the vent outside the house as well and remove any obstructions.

4. Reduce the Dryer Load:

Avoid overloading the dryer with excessive amounts of laundry. Fill the drum to a maximum of 3/4 of its capacity to ensure proper airflow and prevent overheating.

5. Replace the Drum Belt:

If the drum belt is worn or damaged, it will need to be replaced. Contact a qualified appliance technician for this repair.

6. Inspect the Door Switch:

Check the door switch to ensure it is functioning properly. If the switch is damaged or loose, it may need to be replaced.

7. Test the Thermistor:

Use a multimeter to test the thermistor. If the readings are incorrect or the thermistor is broken, it should be replaced.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

1. Clean the Lint Filter Regularly:

Clean the lint filter after every use to prevent lint accumulation in the dryer and vent.

2. Keep the Dryer Area Vented:

Ensure the dryer is located in a well-ventilated area to allow for proper airflow.

3. Use the Right Dryer Settings:

Choose the appropriate dryer cycle and temperature for the type of laundry you are drying.

4. Schedule Regular Maintenance:

Have your LG dryer serviced by a qualified appliance technician on a regular basis to identify and address potential issues early on.

Alternatives to Running the Dryer

If your LG dryer is experiencing continuous running issues and you need to dry your clothes urgently, consider the following alternatives:

1. Air Drying:

Hang your clothes on a clothesline or drying rack to air dry. This method is eco-friendly and gentle on fabrics.

2. Spin Cycle:

Use the spin cycle on your washing machine to remove excess water from your clothes before air drying.

3. Dehumidifier:

Place a dehumidifier in the room where you are air drying your clothes to absorb moisture and speed up the drying process.

Information You Need to Know

1. Why does my LG dryer run for hours without drying my clothes?

Possible causes include a faulty moisture sensor, malfunctioning control board, or clogged vent.

2. Can I stop my LG dryer from running continuously by unplugging it?

Yes, unplugging the dryer will stop it from running, but it should only be used as a temporary solution. Address the underlying issue to prevent further problems.

3. How often should I clean the lint filter in my LG dryer?

Clean the lint filter after every use to maintain optimal airflow and prevent overheating.

4. What is the best way to clean the dryer vent?

Disconnect the vent hose and use a vacuum cleaner to remove lint and debris. Check the vent outside the house as well and remove any obstructions.

5. Can I use a dryer ball to reduce drying time and prevent wrinkles?

Yes, dryer balls help separate clothes, reduce static, and promote airflow, which can shorten drying time and minimize wrinkles.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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