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 humid air turns into water which is finally stored in a collection tank (depending on the type of dryer).
Like any other appliance, it is important to ensure that all its parts are always in good condition, especially one of the parts that plays a key role in the drying efficiency of the dryer: the moisture sensor.
The humidity sensor, as the name suggests, is a part found in a tumble dryer whose main role is to measure the humidity level present in the device, in order to stop the machine once your laundry is dry.
With time and use, it happens that the device encounters problems at this level. Indeed, the humidity sensor may be faulty if you notice that:
- the dryer does not spin,
- the dryer makes noise,
- you have an error code, depending on the brands.
It is important to know that the failure of this element systematically leads to the appliance’s inefficiency in drying your laundry.
In order to avoid this kind of problem, it is strongly recommended to replace it without further delay. This is something you can do on your own.
The location of the sensor can vary depending on the brand, on some brands (like Miele), it is on the upper part, behind the control panel.
The humidity sensor in a dryer is a crucial component that measures the moisture levels in the drying drum. It helps the dryer determine when the clothes are dry and when to stop the drying cycle. If the humidity sensor becomes faulty or inaccurate, it can lead to over-drying or under-drying of clothes, wasting energy and affecting the drying efficiency. Changing the humidity sensor is a relatively simple process, but it requires some basic tools and knowledge of electrical components. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of changing the humidity sensor 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 Humidity Sensor
To access the humidity sensor, you will need to open the dryer’s cabinet and locate the sensor. The specific steps to access the sensor 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.
- Now, you will have access to the dryer’s internal components, including the humidity sensor.
Step 3: Remove the Old Humidity Sensor
Locate the humidity sensor in the dryer’s drum area. It is usually a small rectangular or cylindrical device with wires connected to it.
Carefully disconnect the wires connected to the humidity sensor. Take note of the location and arrangement of the wires to ensure you can reconnect them correctly later.
Remove any screws or clips securing the humidity sensor in place. Gently pull the sensor out of its position.
Step 4: Install the New Humidity Sensor
Position the new humidity sensor in place, aligning it with the corresponding holes or slots. Secure it in place using the appropriate screws or clips.
Step 5: Reconnect Wiring
Carefully reconnect the wires to the new humidity sensor. Make sure each wire is attached to the correct terminal based on the notes you took during disconnection.
Step 6: Reassemble the Dryer
With the new humidity sensor installed and the wiring reconnected, it’s time to reassemble the dryer. Reverse the steps you followed to access the sensor and secure the front panel back onto the dryer’s cabinet.
Step 7: Test the Dryer
Before pushing the dryer back into its designated spot, perform a test run to check if the new humidity sensor is functioning correctly. Turn on the dryer and run a drying cycle to ensure that it accurately measures the moisture levels and stops the drying cycle when the clothes are dry.
Step 8: Final Adjustments
If you encounter any issues with the new humidity sensor during the test run, double-check the installation and wiring connections. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure the sensor functions accurately and stops the drying cycle at the appropriate time.
Conclusion
Changing the humidity sensor of a dryer is a manageable task that can greatly improve the efficiency and performance of your appliance. By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully replace the old humidity sensor with a new one, ensuring that your dryer accurately measures the moisture levels and stops the drying cycle when the clothes are dry. Properly functioning humidity sensor not only saves energy but also protects your clothes from over-drying, extending their lifespan. 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 humidity sensor in place, you can enjoy efficient and effective drying, knowing that your dryer is operating at its best.
