How to test a tumble dryer that is not heating and change a thermostat that is faulty
This video is on a compact Zanussi but the testing and repair is very similar on most makes.
Your tumble dryer is not heating? Could Be One Of The Following:
If you have a Tumble Dryer that is not heating up but the drum is turning ok, then the chances are the thermal overload cut-out has tripped or the heater might have blown. Some older dryers have a red reset button on the back of the casing, just press the reset until you feel it click and you should have heat again white knight, creda and some other makes have this. Neff, Bosch dryers have a reset button but you will have to remove the heater cover panel to access it, you will find it just above the heating element (a black stat with small red button) simply press the red button and if it clicks you've fixed it or you can test it as in the video.
Why do Tumble Dryer Thermostats Fail?
In most cases it´s a fault generated by use or failure to use and maintain the tumble dryer correctly. A little care could prevent the hassle and cost on these repairs:
1 - The Tumble Dryer Filters must be cleaned!
If the air doesn't flow, the machine can overheat and the safety will trip. Any obstruction to the rate of airflow will affect the operation of the dryer and almost certainly cause a failure of the thermostat or, the safety thermostat to trip. If you don't clean the fluff or lint filters, don't fit them back properly or use the tumble dryer with damaged or broken filters it will affect the efficiency of your tumble dryer and as the temperature is no not kept down by cooler air being drawn into the tumble dryer. This increase in temperature can and does, rise high enough to trip out safety thermostats. Any obstruction to the rate of airflow will affect the operation of the dryer and almost certainly cause a failure of the thermostat or, the safety thermostat to trip.
2 - Tumble Dryer Vent Hose!
A blocked vent hose, with fluff or bended in the back of the machine stops the air flow from the machine, tripping the thermostats.
3 - Overloading your Tumble Dryer!
Putting too much clothes in your tumble dyer will affect the airflow, and almost certainly cause a failure of the thermostat or, the safety thermostat to trip.
4 – Always keep Tumble Dryer Condenser Unit Clean!
The aluminum plates at the bottom of condenser tumble dryers, to prevent any blockages caused by the fluff build-up.
5 - Opening The Door During The Drying Cycle!
The dryer has been switched off before the end of the drying cycle and not allowed the dryer to cool down correctly. ALWAYS LET THE DRYER GO THROUGH THE COOLING CYCLE.