Is laundry a hassle because your dryer stops working halfway through its cycle? You’re probably wondering, “Why does my dryer keep shutting off, and what can I do to fix it?” The team at Rick’s Appliance Service, a leading dryer repair company in Wichita, KS, is here with the answer.
Common Causes of Dryer Malfunctions
If your dryer fails to run more than a few minutes before turning off, it could boil down to a few different issues, including the following:
- A blocked vent: Lint from your clothes can create an airflow blockage in the dryer’s vent. When the heat from the dryer can’t escape through the vent, the machine’s thermal overload switch will automatically trigger to prevent a fire and cause the dryer to shut off.
- An overheating dryer motor: Your unit’s motor faces regular wear and tear. As it ages, the motor stands a greater risk of overheating, which also triggers the dryer’s thermal overload switch.
- A defective moisture sensor: Your dryer may stop working before your clothes are fully dry because the moisture sensor is dirty or defective. When the system can’t properly detect moisture in your laundry, the dryer may shut off quickly.
- A popped door latch: “Why does my dryer keep shutting off if the vents are clean and all equipment works?” The answer here is simple: The contents inside your dryer are popping the door latch open. This automatically stops the drying cycle and makes caring for your clothes more difficult if they don’t dry properly.
How To Prevent Ineffective Drying Cycles
Now that you have the answer to the question, “Why does my dryer keep shutting off?” it’s time to figure out ways you can prevent this issue from happening. Experts recommend the following measures for seamless laundry days:
- Scheduling dryer vent cleaning once a year
- Washing smaller loads of laundry
- Seeking repairs or service after noticing changes in your dryer’s performance
A blocked vent not only prevents your clothes from getting dry but also poses a severe fire hazard every time you turn on your dryer. The lint buildup in the vent can catch fire with exposure to the dryer’s heat. Have a professional perform this service and request an inspection if you notice the dryer failing to run for more than a few minutes.
A defective moisture sensor and faulty motor could be behind your issues and require a professional technician to repair or replace them. One simple fix you can do on your own is washing smaller loads of laundry to prevent the door from popping open and pausing the drying cycle.
Get Professional Dryer Repairs
“Why does my dryer keep shutting off?” “Is my washing machine drain pump failing?” The experts at Rick’s Appliance Service can answer these questions and more.
Contact us if you’re experiencing issues with your laundry equipment and other home appliances, like a dishwasher not cleaning or a leaking washing machine, for professional solutions. Call (316) 265-2866 to schedule service today.