7 Common Dryer Repair & Maintenance Tips You Need To Know

Proper maintenance of your clothes dryer can save you from expensive repairs and significantly reduce the risk of a dangerous home fire. Knowing how to care for your dryer proactively keeps it running smoothly, efficiently, and safely. Here are seven essential dryer maintenance and repair tips to help you stay safe and keep costs down.

1. Regularly Clean the Lint Trap

Clean the lint trap after every drying cycle, and wash the lint screen with warm, soapy water at least every three months. Allowing lint and debris to build up restricts airflow, causing your dryer to work harder than necessary and increasing your electricity bill. Moreover, accumulated lint is highly flammable and presents a real fire hazard.

2. Do Not Overload Your Dryer

Avoid stuffing your dryer with too many clothes. Overloading leads to inefficient drying, excessive lint buildup, and prolonged cycle times, raising your energy bills. Clothes that don’t dry completely can also develop moldy or musty odors, forcing you to rewash and dry them, further adding wear to your appliance. HomeSafe Dryer Vent Cleaning recommends aiming for loosely filled dryer loads to improve drying efficiency and appliance longevity.

3. Clean Out the Dryer Exhaust Vent Annually

Clean your dryer’s exhaust vent thoroughly at least once every year. Regular cleaning prevents dangerous lint and debris buildup that can ignite, causing fires and potentially devastating home damage. Cleaning your dryer vent annually also prevents carbon monoxide buildup from gas dryers.

The US Fire Administration emphasizes the importance of proper dryer exhaust vent cleaning.

4. Regularly Clean the Drum Interior

Periodically inspect and clean the dryer drum—the interior space where your clothes are dried. Wipe down the inside with a soft cloth and rubbing alcohol to remove residue from dryer sheets, fabric softeners, and detergents. Built-up residue can cause stains, transfer to clothing, and in extreme cases, pose fire hazards. Ensure any loose lint in the drum is promptly removed.

5. Use Metal Exhaust Vents

Always install metal exhaust vents instead of plastic or vinyl ones. Plastic and vinyl exhaust hoses can easily melt or ignite under high heat conditions, significantly increasing fire risk. Metal vents are safer, sturdier, and easier to clean and maintain.

6. Inspect the Outside Vent Cap Regularly

Inspect your dryer's external vent cap routinely to ensure it’s functioning correctly and free from blockages. Replace plastic vent caps with durable metal versions to better withstand weather and reduce fire risk. Blocked vents can also lead to moisture buildup, causing costly mold and ceiling damage in your home. Clear any debris or lint regularly.

7. Address Unusual Noises Promptly

Pay attention to any unusual sounds coming from your dryer. Unusual rattling, banging, or screeching often indicates mechanical issues. Investigate promptly, and if the cause isn't clear or easily resolved, seek professional repair services. Early detection and intervention can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly, appliance-ending failures.

Helpful Manufacturer and Safety Resources:

GE Appliances - Service and Support

Whirlpool - Service & Support Owner's Center

Maytag - Service & Support Owner’s Center

LG Appliances - Dryer Care and Maintenance

Fort Worth Texas Fire Risk Reduction

Need Professional Dryer Repair or Maintenance?

If you encounter dryer issues or need assistance with routine maintenance, contact HomeSafe Dryer Vent Cleaning. Serving the DFW area since 2009, HomeSafe provides expert installation, cleaning, and repair of dryer vents and ducts. Let HomeSafe help ensure your dryer runs safely and efficiently for years to come.