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TUMBLE DRYER FAULTS

Tumble Dryer Overheating

Overheating is usually caused by blocked filters or vents, failed thermostats, poor fan movement, lint buildup or a heater that is not being controlled correctly.

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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

Restricted airflow Heat cannot escape from the appliance.
Thermostat fault The dryer may continue heating beyond the safe range.
Fan problem Air is not moving through the drum and heater.
Heavy lint buildup Internal lint can trap heat and create a fire risk.
◫ Symptom variations Match the exact point in the drying cycle. ⌄
  • Cabinet feels excessively hot
  • Dryer stops mid-cycle
  • Burning or hot-dust smell
  • Clothes are too hot
  • Thermal cut-out trips repeatedly
✓ 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 using the dryer Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Switch off and unplug until the cause is found.

Success looks like: Further overheating is prevented.
Escalate when: Do not restart repeatedly.
2 Step 2 — Clean all accessible filters and vents Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Remove lint from filters, condenser and vent outlets.

Success looks like: Airflow improves.
Escalate when: Persistent heat means an internal fault remains.
3 Step 3 — Check load and room ventilation Switch off and unplug before opening panels or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Reduce the load and ensure the dryer has adequate surrounding airflow.

Success looks like: Operating temperature normalises.
Escalate when: A hot cabinet with good airflow needs engineer testing.
⌁ Common causes explained Why tumble dryer faults develop. ⌄

Overheating is usually caused by blocked filters or vents, failed thermostats, poor fan movement, lint buildup or a heater that is not being controlled correctly.

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. ⌄
  • Test thermostats and thermal cut-outs.
  • Inspect heater relay operation.
  • Check fan and ducting.
  • Open and remove internal lint safely.
  • Verify temperature sensor readings.
▣ Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄
  • Thermostat
  • Thermal cut-out
  • Fan motor
  • Heater relay
  • Temperature sensor
! 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.