Parts of a Dryer: What They Are and How They Work
Magic happens when they all work together
Highlights
Dryer parts can be internal or external.
If just one part breaks, the dryer may not work.
Knowing how your dryer works can help you maintain it.
There’s nothing like the warm, fragrant comfort of freshly dried clothes. But what if there's a problem and your drying machine doesn't turn on? Knowing the parts of a dryer can help you troubleshoot and decide when to hire a local dryer repair company.
What Are the Different Parts of a Dryer and How Do They Function?
Your dryer is more complex than it looks, and what may seem like a small problem can keep it from operating effectively. The machine may not turn on when even the smallest parts malfunctions. Get familiar with each part of a dryer so you know whether you can fix an issue on your own or need a specialist who fixes dryers.
Knob
The outside of your dryer will have several knobs, which allow you to choose the drying settings and time. The knobs also control whether the dryer makes a sound when the cycle finishes. One of the knobs also turns the machine on.
Bulb
Many, but not all, dryers have a lightbulb that turns on when you open the door, allowing you to see inside. Replacing a burned-out dryer bulb is usually something you can do on your own.
Feet
Most dryers have four adjustable feet, which allow you to balance the machine on an uneven floor. If your dryer is wobbly, picking it up and turning the feet may be all you need to do to correct its balance.
Lint Screen
Depending on the model, the lint screen may be on top of the dryer or tucked inside the doorway. The screen captures small fabric fibers (aka lint) that peel off clothing during a drying cycle. If you accidentally send a tissue or other item through the dryer, the lint screen may capture that, too.
Clean out the lint screen after each load to keep your dryer running well and reduce the risk of fire.
Door
The door of the dryer controls access to the drum inside. When the door is open, there is no way for the machine to turn on.
Door latch
The door latch is a small metal clip that holds the door in place during a drying cycle. If the latch malfunctions, the door doesn't close properly. This is one of the top reasons a dryer won't start.
Door seal
The door seal is a ring of rubber that encircles the door, keeping air from escaping during a cycle. The seal plays an important role in maintaining the efficiency of the dryer and ensuring the door closes tightly.
Drum
The drum holds your clothing during a drying cycle. It turns, tossing the clothing and helping to speed up drying time.
Baffle
Those plastic fins on the inside of the drum are the baffles. They help increase airflow by tossing your clothing around and encouraging circulation.
Vent
A dryer vent is the tube that guides hot air out of a dryer during a cycle. Usually, the dryer vents to the exterior of your home, blowing the air into the street or your yard.
Like the lint screen, the dryer vent should be cleaned regularly to remove debris and reduce the risk of fire. A clean vent will also help your dryer work more effectively.
Thermostat
The thermostat controls the temperature of the dryer, whether you want high heat to quickly dry a load of bedsheets or a lower heat to dry more delicate garments.
When the thermostat malfunctions, your dryer may heat up too much or not enough, causing it to either overdry your laundry or not dry sufficiently. If you're wondering why your dryer isn't drying, it could be a thermostat issue. The thermostat is often housed with the dryer's blower.
Heating element
The heating element makes your dryer hot. It's usually a wire or coil located behind the drum or in the dryer's back panel. When the heating element is damaged, the dryer may fail to get hot.
Blower
True to its name, the blower blows air into the dryer's drum and pulls hot, damp air out through the vents.
If you're wondering why your dryer is squeaking, it could be the blower. The blower produces a high-pitched squeal when it starts to malfunction. You may also notice that loads take longer to dry.
Thermal fuse
The thermal fuse is an essential safety element that keeps your dryer from getting too hot. If the fuse detects that the machine is overheating, it will blow, shutting off the dryer. You won't be able to turn the dryer back on again until you have it checked out and the thermal fuse replaced.
Motor
The dryer's motor is what allows the drum to turn. During operation, the motor helps to turn the belt and pulley wheel, which in turn spin the drum.
The motor can malfunction, preventing the entire machine from working.
Belt
The dryer belt connects the motor to the drum of the dryer, allowing it to turn. Over time, the belt can wear out or break and may need replacement. If the motor is running but the drum doesn't turn, the belt may need to be fixed.
Pulley Wheel
The pulley wheel works in tandem with the belt to help the drum turn. It provides the required tension. However, it can wear out with time and use and usually makes a rattling noise when it does so.