Common Tumble Dryer Faults & How to Fix Them | Domestic Appliance Installation
Is your tumble dryer not working properly? Whether it’s not heating, spinning, or starting at all, tumble dryer faults can be inconvenient and disruptive. At Domestic Appliance Installation, I specialise in diagnosing and repairing all major tumble dryer problems. Below is my expert guide to the most common issues and how to solve them.
Top 10 Most Common Tumble Dryer Faults
1. Tumble Dryer Not Heating Up
If your clothes are still damp after a full cycle, your dryer may not be producing heat. Common causes include:
Faulty heating element
Broken thermostat
Blown thermal fuse
🔥 Quick Fix: Make sure the lint filter and vents are clean. If the drum turns but there's no heat, you may need a professional diagnosis.
2. Tumble Dryer Not Spinning
If the drum isn’t turning:
The drive belt could be broken or slipped
The motor capacitor may be faulty
Drum bearings may be worn
🔧 Tip: If the motor hums but nothing moves, it’s likely a drive belt or motor issue.
3. Tumble Dryer Won’t Start
Common reasons a dryer won’t turn on include:
Door not closed properly
Tripped thermal fuse
Faulty start switch or control board
⚡ Check: Ensure the plug is secure and the door is latched.
4. Dryer Keeps Stopping Mid-Cycle
This could be due to:
Overheating
Moisture sensor failure
Faulty timer or control board
⏱️ What To Do: Empty the lint filter and let the dryer cool down. If it keeps happening, call a technician.
5. Tumble Dryer Making Loud Noises
Strange sounds may indicate:
Worn drum bearings
Objects stuck between the drum and casing
Loose belt or motor issues
🔊 Pro Tip: A rhythmic thumping noise often means a worn roller or something trapped inside.
6. Clothes Take Too Long to Dry
If drying takes longer than normal, check for:
Blocked lint filters or air vents
Faulty heating element or sensors
Overloading
⏲️ Tip: Clean filters after every use and avoid stuffing the drum too full.
7. Dryer Smells Hot or Burns
A burning smell is a serious issue and could point to:
Lint buildup near the heating element
Electrical fault
Motor overheating
🚨 Warning: Stop using the dryer immediately and have it inspected to avoid fire risk.
8. Dryer Door Won’t Close or Lock
This might be due to:
A broken door latch
Warped door or misalignment
Faulty door sensor (especially on sensor dryers)
🚪 Fix: Try aligning the door and inspecting the latch. If it won’t engage, the latch may need replacing.
9. Tumble Dryer Overheating
If the dryer gets excessively hot, it could be due to:
Thermostat or sensor issues
Blocked airflow
Failing fan motor
🌡️ Solution: Clean the vents and filters. Persistent overheating should be checked by a technician.
10. Error Codes on Display
Modern dryers display codes when there's a fault. These often indicate:
Sensor failures
Motor or control issues
Blockages or airflow problems
📘 What To Do: Refer to your user manual or contact us with the error code for expert help.
Need Expert Tumble Dryer Repair?
At Domestic Appliance Installation, I offer fast, reliable, and affordable tumble dryer repair services across Worcestershire. I am experienced with all brands, including Bosch, Samsung, Hotpoint, Miele, and more.
✅ Why Choose Me?
Same-day appointments available
Transparent, fixed-price quotes
Repairs backed by warranty
Huge stock of spare parts kept on my van
📞 Call 07365865653 or Book a repair online — and get your dryer working again in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I fix a tumble dryer myself?
A: You can often clean filters, check fuses, or reset the unit yourself. But heating, spinning, or motor issues should be handled by a professional.
Q: How much does tumble dryer repair cost?
A: It varies by fault, but most repairs range from £60 to £130 depending on the part needed.
Q: How often should I clean the lint filter?
A: After every cycle to prevent overheating and reduce fire risk.