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TUMBLE DRYER FAULTS

Tumble Dryer Keeps Tripping

Repeated tripping usually indicates leakage or a short in the heater, motor, mains filter, wiring or another internal electrical component.

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Switch off and unplug before cleaning inside, removing panels or checking moving parts

Tumble dryers combine mains electricity, high heat, lint and rotating components. Stop using the appliance if it overheats, trips the electrics, smells burnt or makes grinding noises.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Heater leaking to earth A common fault when heat starts.
Motor fault Tripping may occur as the drum begins turning.
Mains filter failure The dryer may trip immediately when powered.
Damaged wiring or moisture Heat and vibration can damage insulation.
◫ Symptom variations Match the exact point in the drying cycle. ⌄
  • Trips immediately
  • Trips when heating starts
  • Trips when drum turns
  • Burning smell
  • Trips only after warming up
✓ Quick checks Simple checks before removing panels. ⌄
  1. Note when the fault appears.
  2. Clean all accessible lint filters.
  3. Check the load size and programme.
  4. Inspect visible vents, condenser parts and the power lead.
  5. Unplug before touching internal parts.
If airflow was the cause: performance should improve immediately.
If electrical or mechanical faults remain: stop and call an appliance engineer.
1 Step 1 — Stop resetting the circuit repeatedly Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Unplug the dryer and leave it out of use.

Success looks like: Further electrical damage is avoided.
Escalate when: Repeated resets are unsafe.
2 Step 2 — Record when the trip happens Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Note whether it occurs at plug-in, start, heat or after several minutes.

Success looks like: The likely component is narrowed down.
Escalate when: Do not run repeated tests.
3 Step 3 — Inspect only external damage Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Check the plug, cable, socket area and any visible moisture.

Success looks like: An obvious safety issue is found.
Escalate when: Internal electrical testing requires an engineer.
⌁ Common causes explained Why tumble dryer faults develop. ⌄

Repeated tripping usually indicates leakage or a short in the heater, motor, mains filter, wiring or another internal electrical component.

Airflow and heat are the biggest clues. Poor airflow causes long drying and overheating, while belt, motor and bearing faults affect drum movement and noise.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Appliance-engineer checks and repair work. ⌄
  • Insulation-test heater and motor.
  • Check mains filter.
  • Inspect wiring and connectors.
  • Test fan and pump loads.
  • Verify earth continuity.
▣ Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄
  • Heating element
  • Motor
  • Mains filter
  • Wiring harness
  • Control board
! When to call an appliance engineer Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄
  • The dryer trips the electrics.
  • The cabinet overheats or smells burnt.
  • The drum is seized, grinding or not turning.
  • Internal electrical testing is required.
  • The dryer must be dismantled.
  • The same fault returns after basic cleaning.
? Frequently asked questions Common tumble dryer questions. ⌄

Why does the dryer stop and restart after cooling?

Thermal protection may be operating because airflow is restricted or a motor is overheating.

Can lint cause a fire?

Yes. Filters, vents and condenser areas should be kept clean and the appliance should never be used while overheating.

Should I keep resetting the electrics?

No. Unplug the dryer and arrange fault testing.