Common Dryer Faults and the Spare Parts That Fix Them

Most dryer problems come from just five parts: the heating element, thermal fuse, drive belt, drum rollers, or door switch. Check your dryer's symptoms below to figure out which part might be the issue, or if a blocked vent is to blame instead.

Key takeaways

• Before you call for service, match your dryer's problem like no heat, no spin, slow drying, noise, or not starting to the most likely part.
• A blocked vent is a fire risk and is often the most overlooked reason why a dryer suddenly takes much longer to dry clothes.
• Always check your model number before ordering to make sure the part will fit.
• WWSpares offers both genuine and aftermarket dryer parts, with fast shipping throughout Australia.

Is your dryer not heating up?

If your dryer is running but only blowing cold air, the problem is usually the heating element or the thermal fuse. The heating element is the coil that heats the air, and it can burn out after years of use. When this happens, the drum still turns, but your clothes won't dry.

The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off if the dryer overheats, often because of a blocked vent, and it doesn't reset once it blows. If your dryer runs but never heats up, check the fuse before assuming the heating element is the problem. You can replace either part yourself if you're comfortable working near electrical wiring, but call a professional if you're not.

Is your dryer not spinning or tumbling?

If you hear the motor running but the drum doesn't turn, the drive belt has probably snapped or slipped off its pulley. Belts get worn out after years of use and often break without warning, usually leaving your laundry piled at the bottom of the drum.

This problem is common in busy households that use the dryer almost every day. To replace the belt, you'll need to remove the front or back panel to reach the drum, so it's a moderate DIY task, not a quick fix.

Is your dryer taking longer to dry than it used to?

Before ordering any parts, check the vent. If your dryer is taking longer to dry clothes, it's often because lint has built up inside the exhaust duct, not just the lint trap, blocking airflow and trapping heat inside the machine.

This is more than just an inconvenience. Fire and Rescue NSW says that cleaning the lint filter and keeping the vent clear are some of the easiest ways to prevent house fires. A blocked duct is a common cause of dryer fires. Clear the vent first. If your dryer is still slow after fixing the airflow, check the thermal fuse next.

Is your dryer making unusual noises?

If you hear a squeak, grind, or thump every time the drum turns, the drum rollers are probably worn out. These small wheels support the drum, and years of use can wear them down until they start scraping against their track.

Worn rollers won't stop your dryer from working, but the noise will usually get louder over time. Ignoring it can put extra strain on the motor. If you hear a steady slapping sound, check the belt as well, since a stretched or misaligned belt can make similar noises.

Is your dryer not starting at all?

If your dryer won't turn on, even though it's plugged in and the outlet works, the problem is often the door switch. This safety feature ensures the door is closed before the machine starts.

The door switch can wear out from regular use and is cheap to replace. Check it before assuming there's a bigger problem, like a faulty control board. If the dryer can't detect the door as closed, it won't start the cycle.