Having issues with your gas clothes dryer? Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. As experienced appliance repair technicians, we’ve seen all kinds of gas dryer problems over the years. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the most common gas dryer problems and explain how to diagnose and fix them yourself. With a few basic tools and our step-by-step instructions, you can save the cost of a service call and get your dryer running again quickly.
Understanding How a Gas Dryer Works
Before we get into specific problems and repairs, let’s review how a gas clothes dryer functions. This will help you better understand the components involved when issues arise.
A gas dryer has a few key parts:
- Gas valve – This allows gas to flow into the dryer’s burner assembly. It has two solenoids, one for ignition and one for main gas flow.
- Igniter – Creates a spark to light the gas. This is usually a glow bar or hot surface igniter.
- Flame sensor – Detects whether the gas is lit. If no flame is sensed, it shuts off the gas valve.
- Burners – Burners convert gas into heat used to dry clothes. They are typically U-shaped tubes.
- Blower wheel – Forces hot air from the burners into the drum.
- Drum – Stainless steel drum that holds clothes and tumbles them during the drying cycle.
- Lint screen – Catches lint so it doesn’t clog internal components.
- Exhaust vent – Carries hot, moist air out of the dryer.
- Thermostats, fuses, timers, etc – Various other components control dryer operations.
During operation, the igniter creates a spark to light the gas when the gas valve opens. The resulting flame is monitored by the flame sensor. If no flame is detected, the sensor immediately shuts off the gas valve. The burners heat air that the blower forces across the clothes. Lint is trapped by the lint screen while exhaust vents out the back. Thermostats, fuses, timers and other parts manage the dryer’s cycles, temperature and safety cutoffs.
Now let’s look at some common problems and how to fix them.
Gas Dryer Won’t Ignite or Heats Up Slowly
If your gas dryer isn’t igniting at all or is taking too long to warm up, there are a few key things to check:
Check the gas supply – Make sure the shut-off valve feeding the dryer is open all the way. If it’s partly closed, it can limit gas flow. The flexible gas line should not be kinked or damaged either.
Inspect the igniter – Pull out the dryer and remove the access panel. Visually check that the igniter glows orange when the dryer starts. No glow means it needs replacement.
Check the gas valve solenoids – Use a multimeter to test both the ignition and main solenoid on the gas valve. If either reads out of spec, replace the valve.
Clean the flame sensor – Unplug power and use steel wool to gently clean the sensor. Check for continuity with a multimeter after. Replace if faulty.
Confirm blower operation – The blower should run when heat is called for. If not, the motor may be bad or a blower relay could be at fault.
Check exhaust venting – Make sure the vent hose is not kinked or clogged. Disconnect it and inspect for obstructions. Proper venting is required for good ignition and heating.
With the right diagnosis, you can get the gas flowing and your dryer igniting properly again. Slow heating is often fixed by clearing exhaust obstructions.
Gas Dryer Not Heating At All
If your gas dryer runs but doesn’t heat up at all, focus on these areas:
Inspect the burner assembly – Unplug the dryer and use a flashlight to look for blocked burner tubes. Clear any lint or debris constricting them.
Check the gas valve coils – Use a multimeter to test the coils on the gas valve. If open, it should read continuity. If not, replace the valve.
Confirm blower operation – The blower pushes air across the burners so it can heat up. If it’s not spinning, the motor is bad or the belt is broken.
Test the thermostats – The cycling and safety thermostats should show continuity at room temperature. Replace any that fail testing.
Look for igniter glow – Pull the dryer out and remove the panel to see if the igniter is glowing during the cycle. No visible glow means a faulty igniter.
Inspect the flame sensor – Check it for damage and clean it. Confirm it’s operating properly by testing continuity with a multimeter.
Check exhaust venting – A plugged exhaust will prevent proper airflow for heating. Disconnect venting and ensure no blockages.
With a process of elimination and testing components, you can zero in on why your gas dryer is not heating and make the necessary repairs.
Gas Dryer Not Drying Properly
Clothes taking forever to dry or coming out still damp can be frustrating. Here are tips on resolving poor drying performance:
Clean the lint screen – A clogged lint screen severely reduces airflow and efficiency. Cleaning it can often fix drying issues quickly.
Check exhaust venting – Disconnect the vent and inspect for lint buildup or obstructions. Make sure venting runs are smooth and unrestricted.
Confirm adequate airflow – Use a flow meter on the exhaust duct to measure airflow volume. Compare it to manufacturer specs. Restricted flow requires vent cleaning.
Replace thermostats – Defective cycling or safety thermostats can prevent the dryer from reaching proper temps. Test old ones and replace faulty ones.
Adjust burner flames – Weak flames from clogged ports or improper gas pressure reduces heating performance. Clean burners and adjust gas regulator if needed.
Level the dryer – An unleveled dryer can cause clothes to clump up and not tumble properly. Use a level to ensure it’s even. Adjust leveling feet as needed.
Check blower wheel – Lint buildup on blades reduces airflow. Unplug dryer, remove back panel and clean fan blades thoroughly.
Inspect drum seals – Check the felt seals around the drum for gaps or damage. Air leakage here allows moist air to recirculate back into drum.
With focused troubleshooting, you can pinpoint what’s reducing drying efficiency and take action to restore proper performance.
Gas Dryer Shutting Off Mid-Cycle
A dryer that stops running part way through cycles can be incredibly frustrating. Here are some likely causes and solutions:
Check error codes – Many dryers display error codes that indicate why they stopped. Check codes in your model’s owner’s manual and troubleshoot accordingly.
Clean lint buildup – Excess lint around components can cause overheating that trips the thermal fuse shutoff. Unplug dryer, disassemble and thoroughly remove lint throughout.
Confirm adequate venting – Blocked vents cause overheating and shutdowns. Disconnect venting and clean it thoroughly. Ensure it is smooth, properly sized and free of kinks.
Replace thermostats – Defective high-limit thermostats shut off gas when internal temps get too high. Test continuity and replace faulty ones.
Inspect igniter – Weak igniters can cause unreliable heating, temperature spikes and premature shutoffs. Replace old igniters for consistent performance.
Check burner flames – Weak, uneven flame patterns also create temperature spikes. Clean or adjust burners so flames are blue and steady.
Monitor cycling – If unit cycles on and off rapidly, thermostats or sensors may be defective. Test components and replace ones not operating to spec.
By methodically inspecting components and venting, you can uncover what’s causing premature shutoffs and create a more reliable drying experience.
Gas Dryer Makes Noise But Won’t Start
If your gas dryer is making noises but failing to start up, focus your troubleshooting efforts on these key areas:
Check for error codes – Most dryers have diagnostics that display error codes on a LED or console panel. Look these up in your manual for likely causes.
Inspect the door switch – A faulty door switch prevents operation. Check it visually for damage. Use a multimeter to test continuity with door open and closed.
Listen for motor sounds – If you hear a humming motor but no drum rotation, the belt is likely broken. This is a simple and inexpensive repair.
Test the start switch – Located on the control console, this switch activates the motor. Check it with a multi-meter and replace if faulty.
Look for jammed blower wheels – Belts can break and get sucked into the blower wheel, jamming it. Unplug dryer and manually rotate the wheel to check for obstructions.
Check thermal fuses – These fuses blow and need replacement if dryer overheats due to restricted airflow. Test continuity and replace open fuses.
Examine door latch – Worn latches allow the door to open mid-cycle, triggering shut off. Adjust or replace faulty latches and strike plates.
With some detailed troubleshooting and component testing, you can zero in on the specific reason a noisy dryer won’t start. Targeted repairs will get it running smoothly again.
Gas Dryer Runs But No Heat
A dryer that runs but doesn’t heat is often caused by one of these issues:
Check for ignition – Open the back panel with the dryer unplugged and observe if igniter glows and gas ignites when started. If not, igniter or valve could be bad.
Inspect burner tubes – Ensure burners and ports are clear of lint obstruction. Blockages prevent proper gas flow.
Look for proper flame – Flames should be blue and steady. Small or orange flames indicate low gas pressure or blockage. Adjust gas regulator if needed.
Test the flame sensor – Unplug dryer and clean sensor with steel wool. Check it for continuity using a multimeter. Replace it if defective.
Confirm blower operation – Blower must run to push air across burners and into drum. If not operating, motor, switch or belt could be bad.
Check thermostats – Continuity test both safety and cycling thermostats. No continuity at room temperature means replacement is needed.
Inspect igniter glow – Igniters can weaken over time. Pull dryer and observe igniter when started. No visible glow means replace.
By isolating the gas heating system and methodically testing components, you can identify faulty parts not allowing heat generation.
Gas Valve and Igniter Testing
The gas valve and igniter are critical to proper dryer heating. Here is how to test each one:
Gas Valve
- Unplug dryer and shut off gas supply
- Remove console panel and locate valve solenoids
- Label wires, then disconnect them from valve
- Check ignition and main solenoid coils for continuity
If no continuity, replace valve. If valve tests fine, reconnect wires, turn on gas and observe valve during operation. Listen for clicking sounds indicating solenoids are opening and closing. No clicks points to a bad valve.
Igniter
- Unplug dryer and remove rear panel
- Visually inspect igniter for cracks or damage
- Disconnect igniter wires and remove igniter
- Test igniter continuity with multimeter
An open reading means igniter needs replacement. If igniter checks good, reconnect wires, turn on gas and monitor igniter when dryer starts. Look for visible igniter glow indicating proper operation.
Testing valves and igniters can confirm if problems lie with these components or elsewhere in the dryer. Always take proper safety precautions when working with gas appliances.
Troubleshooting Gas Dryer Thermostats
Defective thermostats are a common cause of dryer failure. Here is how to test the key ones:
Cycling Thermostat
This regulates dryer temperature cycles. To test:
- Unplug dryer and locate thermostat
- Disconnect wires and remove thermostat
- Set multimeter to RX1 scale and touch probes to terminals
You should get a continuity reading at room temperature. If not, the thermostat needs replacement.
High-Limit Thermostat
This shuts off gas if dryer overheats. To test:
- Locate high-limit thermostat near burner housing
- Label wires and disconnect them
- Check continuity across thermostat using multimeter
Continuity indicates a good thermostat. Lack of continuity means replace. If uncertain, compare reading against manufacturer spec sheet for your model.
Thermal Fuse
This one-time-use fuse blows if dryer overheats. To check:
- Locate thermal fuse mounted to blower housing
- Remove fuse and test continuity across terminals
- No continuity means fuse is blown and dryer needs a new thermal fuse
Testing thermostats and replacing defective ones restores proper dryer heat cycles and prevents overheating issues.
Do-It-Yourself Gas Dryer Repairs
Many gas dryer repairs are within the ability of handy homeowners. Here are some common DIY repairs you can tackle:
Replace Igniter – Unplug power and shut off gas. Remove old igniter and disconnect wires. Install new igniter, reconnect wires and test operation.
Change Thermostats – Unplug dryer and label all thermostat wires. Remove faulty thermostat and install replacement of same type. Reconnect labeled wires.
Clean Lint Buildup – Unplug dryer and use vacuum hose to remove lint from ducts, housing, blower and other internal areas.
Change Door Switch – Access and label switch wires. Remove old switch and install new one. Reconnect wires observing labels. Test for proper door open/closed circuit.
Replace Gas Valve Solenoids – Turn off gas and unplug dryer. Label and disconnect valve wires. Unscrew valve and install new one with included gasket. Reconnect wires.
Inspect Drum Seals – Carefully pull drum out and check seals around it for gaps or damage. Order and install replacement seals if needed.
Adjust Dryer Legs – Use a level to identify uneven spots, then turn legs accordingly to level dryer. Test that it now runs smoothly without noise or vibration.
With some mechanical ability and safety precautions, many dryer repairs can be done DIY-style at significant cost savings versus hiring a technician.
When to Call a Professional
While you can perform many dryer repairs yourself, there are some situations when it’s best to call a professional:
- If diagnosis points to a natural gas line problem
- If the dryer cabinet or casing needs major work
- For complex disassembly or reassembly of internal components
- If electrical testing is beyond your skill level
- For liability reasons if renting or still under warranty
- If repair requires parts you cannot obtain
- If the fixing attempt will risks personal safety
Professional technicians have specialized skills, proper tools and access to parts that allow them to safely handle more complex repairs. They can also properly dispose of old parts containing hazardous materials. For major repairs involving gas lines, electrical work or major disassembly, hiring a trained appliance repair technician is advisable.
Gas Dryer Maintenance Tips
With proper maintenance you can avoid many dryer malfunctions and extend its operating lifespan. Here are some helpful maintenance tips:
- Clean the lint screen before every load – This prevents buildup that can create fire hazards or reduce airflow.
- Check the exterior vent yearly – Disconnect the vent and clear any accumulated lint or debris in the ducting.
- Vacuum the interior annually – Use a vacuum hose and crevice tool to clean lint from the cabinet, ducts, blower housing and hard-to-reach spots.
- Confirm adequate clearance – Ensure at least 6 inches of clearance behind the dryer for airflow. Move it out from the wall if needed.
- Level the dryer – An unleveled dryer can vibrate, wear components and not dry well. Re-level it if needed.
- Clean the drum seals – Use isopropyl alcohol and a non-abrasive scrub pad to remove residue buildup on the felt drum seals.
- Inspect the exhaust ducting – Verify ducting is not kinked, too long or punctured. Make sure the flap on the exterior vent opens when dryer runs.
- Check the gas fittings – Inspect flexible gas line and fittings for leaks annually using a commercial leak detector.
Staying on top of maintenance keeps your gas dryer running smoothly for years and prevents many repair headaches.
Gas Dryer Safety Tips
Working on gas appliances involves important safety considerations:
- Shut off gas supply and unplug power before repairs.
- Use extreme caution when testing live electrical components.
- Wear protective gloves and eye wear. Components may be sharp or hot.
- Have an ABC fire extinguisher on hand in case of ignition.
- Follow instructions carefully and do not take shortcuts.
- Confirm all gas fittings are properly tightened. Check for leaks.
- Make sure all components are securely reattached before testing operation.
- Never leave a disassembled dryer unattended; keep pets and children away from work area.
- Use proper lifting techniques and get assistance for very heavy components.
- Be sure you have sufficient skills for the job – call a professional if needed.
- Properly dispose of old parts and lint debris when finished.
Exercising caution, patience and common sense is crucial when servicing gas appliances. Safety should always be the top priority.
Troubleshooting Gas Dryer Problems and Repairs – Conclusion
Gas dryers may develop issues over time, but many problems