It can happen that a dryer goes into safety and stops working. If you encounter this problem, there are several tests and checks you can do to fix the problem:
- Clean the door and duct filter, because the lack of maintenance and cleaning of the filters is one of the first causes of breakdown on a dryer. because the lack of maintenance and cleaning of the filters is one of the first causes of breakdown on a dryer.
- Check drum rotation and belt
- Test the dryer door security
- Check the dryer’s safety thermostats
- Check the dryer’s water tank
- Check the water pump.
A dryer’s safety mode, also known as “protection” or “fault” mode, is a built-in feature designed to prevent damage to the machine, your home, and even to prevent potential fire hazards. If your dryer consistently goes into safety mode, it’s crucial to understand why this might be happening and how to resolve the issue. In this article, we’ll explore the common reasons why your dryer might be going to safety mode and potential solutions.
Overheating
Overheating is one of the most common reasons a dryer goes into safety mode. This could be due to lint buildup in the vent pipe, exhaust hose, or lint trap, which can block airflow and cause the dryer to overheat. An overloaded dryer or one with a malfunctioning thermostat can also lead to overheating.
Tip: Regularly clean your lint trap, vent pipe, and exhaust hose to prevent lint buildup. Don’t overload your dryer and ensure the thermostat is working correctly.
Imbalanced Loads
When the dryer’s load is imbalanced, the drum might struggle to turn, causing the motor to work harder than usual. This can lead to overheating and prompt the dryer to switch to safety mode.
Tip: Ensure clothes are evenly distributed inside the drum before starting a cycle. If the load is too small or consists of one large item, such as a blanket, add a few small items to help balance the load.
Blocked Ventilation
Dryers need good ventilation to operate correctly. If the room where your dryer is located doesn’t have enough ventilation, it could cause the machine to overheat and switch to safety mode.
Tip: Ensure your laundry room or area is well ventilated. Keep the dryer’s surroundings clean and free from clutter.
Sensor Issues
Modern dryers have several sensors that monitor the machine’s operation and ensure it’s working safely. These include temperature sensors, moisture sensors, and motor speed sensors. If any of these sensors are malfunctioning, they may incorrectly signal a problem and trigger safety mode.
Tip: If you suspect a sensor issue, it’s best to call a professional to diagnose and repair it.
Electrical Problems
Electrical issues such as faulty wiring, a tripped circuit breaker, or a blown fuse can cause your dryer to enter safety mode. These problems can be serious and pose a risk of electrical shock.
Tip: If you suspect an electrical problem, it’s crucial to contact a professional. Don’t attempt to fix electrical issues yourself unless you’re qualified to do so.
CHECK DRYER WATER TANK
A water tank, or a water collection tray, or even a condensate tray is used to collect condensed water vapor resulting from the dampness of the laundry. Indeed, the vapor passes through a condenser to be converted, the resulting liquid is then collected in a tank or pumped out through a pipe.
That’s why it’s important to empty the tank regularly: standing water can cause bad odors. Empty this container after each use of the tumble dryer: if it overflows, the tumble dryer may go into safe mode and stop working.
CHECK DRYER WATER PUMP
Your condenser dryer is equipped with a condensate pump. It is located at the bottom of the device and can be accessed from the side or rear.
- Check propeller for correct rotation and clean if necessary.
- Select the multimeter’s ohmmeter function, then place a test probe on each pump motor terminal.
- The value must be between 100 and 400 ohms. If you find 1 or OL, then the pump has failed and needs to be replaced.
In conclusion, if your dryer is frequently entering safety mode, it’s likely indicating a problem that needs addressing. Overheating, imbalanced loads, poor ventilation, sensor issues, or electrical problems could all be to blame. Some of these issues can be addressed at home, such as cleaning lint buildup or balancing the load, but for more complex issues, it’s best to consult a professional. Addressing these issues promptly will help ensure your dryer operates safely and efficiently.
