Check the dryer for damage

Today, users can diagnose the dryer themselves without turning to specialists. This is done using the “Service Test” function, which is present in all modern dryers. We'll tell you how to check the device, what breakdowns occur most often, and how to use the equipment correctly.

How will we test?

A service test can help identify problems with your dryer. This is a special algorithm during which all dryer components are checked. The procedure for starting self-diagnosis is described in the equipment instructions.

Before you start using the dryer, read the instructions for it - the manual describes all the nuances regarding the operation and maintenance of the device.

The service test does not always accurately identify the malfunction. In some cases, the self-diagnosis system determines the range of possible breakdowns. To understand exactly which element needs repair, it is necessary to focus on the behavior of the “home assistant”.

Symptoms of problems may vary. If the dryer “freezes” during operation, or stops rotating the drum, pay attention to which stage of the cycle. This will be fundamentally important during diagnosis.

“Symptoms” and the breakdowns that caused them

For a complete and effective diagnosis of the dryer, only a service test may not be enough. The same error often indicates several problems. An assessment of the “behavior” of the dryer will help you understand the reason for the incorrect operation of the device. What “symptoms” of malfunctions do users most often encounter?

• The machine does not dry the laundry.This behavior of the “home assistant” may indicate a clogged lint filter or an overload of the drum. What should the user do? It is necessary to clean the filter element and all ventilation holes from dust. Another reason is an overfilled condensate container. Check the tank and drain the water. Alternatively, lack of drying may be caused by damage to the control module. Diagnostics of the board and replacement of semiconductors will be required. And finally, a failed thermostat can provoke a similar situation.
• The drum does not spin. Having detected such a failure, the machine will display the corresponding error code on the display. However, the reasons for such a problem can be different: a foreign object stuck inside the dryer that blocks rotation, a broken drive belt, problems with the engine, wear of the bearing unit, damage to the control module.
• The condensate container is not filling. Moisture does not drain into the tray for several reasons. First, the reservoir may be overfilled. Then the liquid will begin to collect in the pan. Secondly, the inlets often become clogged and the air in the system stops circulating properly. In this case, they will need to be cleaned. Thirdly, the compartment fullness sensor may fail; in this situation, the dryer will need to be repaired.
• The control panel does not respond to clicks. In this situation, check whether the outlet to which the machine is connected is working. Also inspect the dryer's power cord. If these reasons are excluded, perhaps the problem is sticking buttons on the device. When everything is in order with this, you will have to diagnose the electronic module.The unit is usually damaged due to moisture on the board, power surges or a short circuit.
• The machine is leaking. A leak can occur for several reasons. The problem may be that the drum seal is damaged, the pump is clogged, or the condensate container is overfilled. If the dryer is connected to a sewer, be sure to check the integrity of the drain hose and the tightness of its connection to the body and pipe.
• The drum door does not close. The most common reason is things getting stuck between the body and the hatch of the machine. Sometimes it is a matter of skewed hinges or deformation of the door latch. In some cases, the lock is at fault - there may be mechanical or electronic damage. If you cannot identify the problem yourself, contact a specialist.
• Also, the door can close, but the hatch locking device does not work. Until the module receives a signal that the system is tight, the cycle will not begin. You can check the blocker using a multimeter. It is not practical to repair the lock; it is easier to buy and install a new element.
• The dryer is very noisy. Any machine makes noises during drying, and this is normal. They are caused by the operation of the heating element, the functioning of the warm air supply system, the movement of the drum, and so on. However, too loud “behavior” of the device should alert the user. To determine possible breakdowns, you need to focus on the nature of the noise.

Listen to the dryer:

• Creaking, rumbling and increased vibration will indicate problems with the drive mechanism and bearing assembly. If you've had your dryer for quite a long time, you can probably talk about wear on the bearings or shock absorbers.Damaged elements will need to be replaced;
• a repeated knock may indicate a foreign object that has entered the space between the tank and the drum;
• A grinding noise is a clear sign that the CM drum is rubbing against other internal parts of the device. It is necessary to inspect the pulley for deformation. Here, too, the issue may be bearing wear and damage to dampers.

Sometimes the dryer trips the RCD and then the cycle stops. This usually happens in the middle of drying. A possible reason is heater failure. The heating element, after several years of operation of the device, becomes damaged. Condensation gets into the cracks of the element, which causes a short circuit in the electrical network.

If the dryer trips the RCD, immediately turn off the power to the equipment and do not turn on the device until the fault is corrected.

What should the user do if the dryer behaves incorrectly? Everything will depend on the “symptoms” of the malfunction. If there is a leak or a power problem, turn off the power to the equipment immediately.

When the machine “freezes” during the drying process and displays an error on the display, you need to decipher the code. To do this, look at the instructions for the equipment. Having determined the range of possible problems, turn off the power to the dryer and begin diagnostics.

System error

As already mentioned, modern dryers are equipped with a self-diagnosis system for faults. Models with a display display the code on the screen; devices without a display notify of a breakdown by flashing indicators on the control panel. The user's task is to decipher the error that is generated.

The list of possible errors is different for different brands of machines. Therefore, be sure to read the user manual.For example, Miele dryers produce the following codes:

• F1, F2, F3, F4 – indicate incorrect operation of the temperature sensor. In such a situation, the temperature required for drying clothes is not maintained in the chamber. The problem may also be damage to the semiconductor on the control board that coordinates the operation of the thermostat;
• F11 - indicates a blockage in the filtration system. The code may also indicate the impossibility of draining water. Check the fluff filter, the condition of the ventilation holes, the condensate container, the drain hose (if the machine is connected to a sewer);
• F10, F13, F15 – errors indicating problems when draining water from dryers connected to the sewer or independently removing condensate;
• F20, F29 - inform about the failure of the heating element of the dryer;
• F32, F33, F36 - notify that the dryer loading hatch is open. The lock or locking device may be damaged. Sometimes it's the control board itself;
• F38, F39, F41 - errors indicating problems with the control module. Diagnostics and repair of an electronic unit require certain knowledge and skills. Therefore, it is better to entrust the work to the service center specialists;
• F51 – indicates incorrect operation of the tachometer;
• F66 – informs about air leakage from the system;
• F156, F157 – errors indicating a malfunction of the temperature sensor.

Sometimes dryers signal a problem simply with one letter, without a corresponding number. This means that the intellect cannot determine which element has failed. Restart your device - it may just be a system glitch. If the general error occurs again, contact the service center for help.

Use technology correctly

It is easier to prevent any problem than to fix it later. This is why it is so important to follow the basic rules for using a dryer. Following a few recommendations will significantly extend the life of your “home assistant”.

• Take a responsible approach to choosing a place to install your dryer. The floor should be level and hard, this will help to avoid distortion of the case and increased vibrations during operation of the device.
• Do not put too many items in the dryer - strictly adhere to the maximum load weight. Overload is fraught with premature wear of bearings, drive mechanism, and damage to shock absorbers.
• Use the machine only for drying clothes, the device is not intended for other purposes.
• Monitor the condition of the hatch seal. A damaged rubber band will cause leakage, so it is so important to replace the gasket in time.
• Before loading laundry into the dryer, it is better to spin it in the washing machine at the maximum speed allowed for these items. Due to this, drying time will be reduced, and therefore energy consumption.
• Select a mode based on the type of things you put in the drum. Delicate programs are provided for thin fabrics, intensive algorithms are provided for durable, multi-layered clothing. This will help preserve your laundry while ensuring maximum drying results.
• Don't forget about grooming. Clean the machine from dust in a timely manner, empty the lint filter, ventilate the drying chamber, and wipe the drum walls with a clean damp cloth.

It is recommended to clean the lint filter after each use of the dryer.

It is also better to install a voltage stabilizer in front of the dryer.The device will protect the “home assistant” from surges and drops in the power supply. This precaution will help protect the control module from premature failure.

Thus, any user can independently check the dryer for breakdowns by running a service test. Most problems can be resolved with your own hands, without the help of a specialist. To solve complex problems, it is better to turn to specialists so as not to harm the “home assistant” even more.

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