Electric Dryer Repair: When a Dryer Gives Clothes a Bad Odor

Electric dryer repair can be frustrating if you do not know the source of your troubles. With a specific problem like clothes with a bad odor, you can consider a few possible causes such as blockages or foreign objects. If quick fixes will work, you may find these preferable to extensive electric dryer repair. With the following hints, you should be able to complete your electric dryer repair and return to fresh-smelling clothes.

Step 1 – Check the Flow at the Vent

First check your exterior vent while the dryer is running. You should be able to feel air coming at you in a strong flow. If the flow is weak or nonexistent, refer to the following steps to check the dryer for blockages that may be preventing the air flow.

Step 2a –Check the Lint Trap

The lint trap is the easiest thing that you will be able to check on your dryer. You will simply pull out the lint trap and remove any excess lint. The trap is typically located at the top of the dryer or at the bottom, just inside the door. It is very important that you empty your lint trap between each load. A clean trap will help to keep your dryer going faster. Too much lint in the trap actually creates a fire hazard. Always be sure to fully insert the lint trap into the dryer before you attempt to use it again.

Step 2b – Check the Vent Hose

If the lint trap was clear, you will need to move on to the vent hose. Make sure that it is connected as securely as possible to the exterior vent as well as your dryer. The hose cannot be kinked or bent in any way. Kinks or bends will cause a blockage that could be the source of your problems.

Step 2c – Check the Interior for Blockages

If your vent is in good shape and is connected securely, you will need to check the inside for blockages. But before you proceed with this step, be sure that your dryer is turned off completely.

You may need some help to move your dryer where you can get completely behind it and work. Get the end of the hose that is connected to the dryer and look inside for any sort of lint buildup or other forms of blockage. You will also need to keep an eye out for any holes. Look inside your dryer for blockages as well. Remove any obstructions you find and reconnect the hose to the dryer to test the air flow.

Step 3 - Check the Exterior Vent

If after following Step 1, you still have unpleasant-smelling clothes, check the exterior vent for blockages and foreign objects that may be causing the odor. Locate the dryer vents on the exterior of the house. Remove the vent cap and check for any large holes or damage. If you do find damage, it may signal that a rodent or small animal has entered the dryer vent and is causing the odor.

With dryer vent removed, use a lint brush to sweep out the vent. Using a flashlight if needed, check the inside for visible signs of a blockage. Replace the vent cap when you finish your inspection.