Why your whirlpool dryer isn’t drying: the ultimate troubleshooting guide
What To Know
- Nothing is more frustrating than a dryer that fails to dry your clothes, especially when you’re in a hurry.
- If the drive belt is worn out or broken, the drum will not rotate, and the clothes will not dry.
- To check the drive belt, open the dryer door and look for a belt that is loose, cracked, or frayed.
Nothing is more frustrating than a dryer that fails to dry your clothes, especially when you’re in a hurry. If your Whirlpool dryer has stopped drying or is taking an unusually long time to do so, don’t panic. There are several potential reasons behind this issue, and many of them can be easily resolved at home.
Common Causes and Solutions for Whirlpool Dryer Not Drying
1. Clogged Lint Filter
The lint filter is one of the most common culprits when a Whirlpool dryer stops drying. Over time, lint and debris can accumulate on the filter, blocking airflow and preventing the dryer from heating properly. Clean the lint filter after every load to ensure optimal performance.
2. Restricted Exhaust Vent
Another common cause of a Whirlpool dryer not drying is a restricted exhaust vent. Lint and debris can also accumulate in the exhaust vent, which leads to reduced airflow and poor drying performance. Clean the exhaust vent regularly to prevent this issue.
3. Faulty Heating Element
The heating element is responsible for generating the heat necessary to dry clothes. If the heating element fails, the dryer will not be able to dry clothes effectively. To test the heating element, use a multimeter to measure its resistance. If the resistance is infinite, the heating element needs to be replaced.
4. Broken Thermostat
The thermostat regulates the temperature inside the dryer. If the thermostat fails, the dryer may not heat up properly or may overheat. To test the thermostat, use a multimeter to measure its continuity. If the thermostat is open, it needs to be replaced.
5. Worn-Out Drive Belt
The drive belt connects the motor to the drum, allowing the drum to rotate. If the drive belt is worn out or broken, the drum will not rotate, and the clothes will not dry. To check the drive belt, open the dryer door and look for a belt that is loose, cracked, or frayed. If the belt is damaged, it needs to be replaced.
6. Faulty Door Switch
The door switch ensures that the dryer only operates when the door is closed. If the door switch fails, the dryer may not start or may stop operating prematurely. To test the door switch, close the dryer door and listen for a click. If you don’t hear a click, the door switch needs to be replaced.
7. Overloading the Dryer
Overloading the dryer can prevent clothes from drying properly. When the dryer is overloaded, the clothes don’t have enough space to tumble and circulate, which reduces airflow and slows down the drying process. Avoid overloading the dryer by following the manufacturer’s recommended load capacity.
Wrap-Up:
If your Whirlpool dryer is not drying, the issue could be one of the common causes discussed above. By following these troubleshooting tips, you can often resolve the problem yourself and get your dryer back up and running in no time. If the issue persists or you’re not comfortable performing these repairs yourself, it’s best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician for assistance.
Basics You Wanted To Know
Q: Why is my Whirlpool dryer taking so long to dry clothes?
A: Possible causes include a clogged lint filter, restricted exhaust vent, worn-out drive belt, or faulty heating element.
Q: Why is my Whirlpool dryer not heating up?
A: The heating element or thermostat may be faulty.
Q: Why is my Whirlpool dryer stopping prematurely?
A: The door switch may be faulty or the dryer may be overloaded.