A broken dryer can cause an endless string of problems, including a laundry room that smells like rotten eggs or one that won’t start at all. Although some dryer repair jobs require a professional, many can be done by an experienced homeowner with basic tools. For example, if the dryer won’t start or is making a humming noise, it could be a simple matter of cleaning the lint filter or checking for a blocked vent. On the other hand, more complicated dryer repairs like replacing a worn-out drive belt or damaged drum roller shafts may require a professional service technician.
A noisy dryer can also indicate a faulty door switch. These switches wear out over time, and repeatedly slamming the door can speed up their demise. The switch is simple to test; simply disconnect the switch leads, clip one probe of a volt-ohm-milliammeter (VOM) to each switch terminal, and press the switch closed with your finger. If the VOM needle jumps, the switch is bad and must be replaced with a new one of the same type.
An unusual hum can signify a faulty motor relay or thermal fuse, which are both located near the exhaust duct on the back of the dryer. A faulty relay can stop electrical current from flowing to the motor, so it won’t run when you push the start button or turn the dryer on. Homeowners can inspect and replace a faulty thermal fuse by following the dryer’s wiring diagram and measuring continuity through the switch with a multimeter. dryer repair