The tumble dryer is a complementary household appliance to the washing machine, which works on an internal heating system. The air is sucked in from the outside by a turbine, it is then heated by the resistors of the dryer. The moist air turns into water which is finally stored in a collection tank. Like any other device, it is important to ensure that all its parts are always in good condition.
Regardless of the model or brand, all washing machines are equipped with a security system that locks or blocks the door during the wash cycle.
When it comes to closing doors, the bolt, the lock and the safety finger are the parts that take on all their importance. This is to protect the user during the entire period of machine operation. Door safety is therefore particularly important during the rotation of the appliance drum.
These are parts that are always in contact with the dryer door and they are all very well studied so that there are no accidents. This is why this process has electrical parts.
Door security works almost the same way as for a washing machine, so the principle is the same. When current flows through the input and output terminals, it causes a temperature rise. The bolt is then swung into the hole, which has the effect of preventing the door from opening. When there is no more power, the temperature drops and the door safety device cools down for a period of approximately two minutes before leaving the door free for possible opening.
Over time and with use, certain parts of the appliance may deteriorate, this is the case:
- the door finger and the lock which can break,
- strong security or the lock which may be faulty.
To find out if the locking mechanism is faulty, you may notice that it prevents:
- closing the door,
- to open the door, it remains blocked after a complete drying cycle,
- to start the drying cycle.
For some brands, there may be an error code displayed.
If the problem comes from one of these parts related to the door safety, it must be replaced. Here you will learn how to replace a faulty door security, safety finger and door lock. You will also find operations specific to Miele appliances.
Since the operation is simple, you can do it by yourself.
- The location of the door security can change depending on the brands, it is generally found behind the control panel at the front of the device. To access it, you must remove the upper panel and the control panel.
- The door safety pin is located above and inside the dryer door. To access it, just open the door.
- In most cases, the lock and the door bolt are recessed at the level of the front facade, on either side of the door. They are fixed either with screws or simple clips.
The door security, also known as the door switch, in a dryer is a safety feature that prevents the dryer from operating when the door is open. It ensures that the dryer stops immediately if the door is opened during a drying cycle, preventing any potential accidents. If the door security becomes faulty or fails to function correctly, it is essential to replace it promptly to maintain the safety of the appliance. Changing the door security is a manageable task with the right tools and guidance. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of changing the door security of a dryer.
Step 1: Safety Precautions
Before you begin any repair work on your dryer, prioritize safety. Ensure the dryer is disconnected from the power supply by unplugging it from the electrical outlet or switching off the circuit breaker dedicated to the dryer.
Step 2: Access the Dryer’s Door Security
To access the door security, you will need to open the dryer’s cabinet and locate the door switch. The specific steps to access the door security may vary depending on your dryer model. Generally, you will need to:
- Remove any screws or clips securing the dryer’s top panel to the cabinet. Slide a putty knife or a similar tool between the top and front panels to release any hidden clips.
- Lift the top panel and prop it up securely.
- Locate and remove the screws or clips securing the front panel to the sides of the cabinet.
- Carefully tilt the front panel forward and disconnect any wires or cables attached to the door switch.
- Set the front panel aside.
Step 3: Remove the Old Door Security
With the front panel removed, locate the door security (door switch). It is usually located near the dryer’s door and held in place with screws or clips.
Carefully remove the screws or unclip the door switch to release it from the dryer.
Step 4: Disconnect Wiring
Before removing the door security completely, carefully disconnect the wires connected to it. Take note of the location and arrangement of the wires to ensure you can reconnect them correctly later.
Step 5: Install the New Door Security
Position the new door security in place, aligning it with the corresponding holes or slots. Secure it in place using the appropriate screws or clips.
Step 6: Reconnect Wiring
Carefully reconnect the wiring to the new door security. Make sure each wire is attached to the correct terminal based on the notes you took during disconnection.
Step 7: Reassemble the Dryer
With the new door security installed and the wiring reconnected, it’s time to reassemble the dryer. Reverse the steps you followed to access the door security and secure the front panel back onto the dryer’s cabinet.
Step 8: Test the Dryer
Before pushing the dryer back into its designated spot, perform a test run to check if the new door security is functioning correctly. Turn on the dryer and run a drying cycle to ensure that it stops immediately when you open the door.
Step 9: Final Adjustments
If you encounter any issues with the new door security during the test run, double-check the installation and wiring connections. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the door switch functions correctly and stops the dryer when the door is opened.
Conclusion
Changing the door security of a dryer is a manageable task that helps ensure the safety and proper functioning of your appliance. By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully replace the old door switch with a new one, providing peace of mind that your dryer will stop immediately if the door is opened during a drying cycle. Properly functioning door security is essential for preventing accidents and maintaining the safety of the dryer operation. However, if you encounter any difficulties during the process or have concerns about handling the repair, it’s always best to seek assistance from a professional dryer technician. With the new door security in place, you can continue to use your dryer with confidence, knowing that its safety features are working effectively.
