Dryer Maintenance Checklist: Help Prevent Damage and Extend the Life of Your Dryer
Keeping your clothes dryer in top shape and working well doesn’t just improve performance, it also helps prevent costly repairs and reduces the risk of fire hazards. Here’s a simple, actionable checklist homeowners can follow to maintain their dryer, minimize wear and tear and know when it’s time to call a professional.
Item #1. Inspect & Clean the Dryer Lint Trap After Every Load
Leaving lint in the trap after each cycle restricts airflow, making your dryer work harder and longer to dry clothes. Over time, this can wear out internal components, increase your energy bills and the likelihood that repair or service work will be required.
✅ Professional Tip: Make it a habit to remove lint after every drying cycle. Put up a note or post-it next to the dryer to remind yourself.
Item #2. Clean the Dryer Vent Annually (or More Often if Needed)
Over time, lint buildup in the dryer vent slows down drying time and increases the risk of overheating.
- If your dryer vent is short and accessible, you may be able to clean it yourself using a dryer vent brush.
- If your vent runs through walls, ceilings, or goes from the basement to the roof, it’s best to call a professional. Long vents are harder to reach and require specialized tools.
✅ Dryer Vent Warning Sign: Clothes taking much longer to dry than usual could mean it’s time to clean the vent.
Item #3. Listen for Unusual Dryer Noises, Shaking or Vibrations
Strange noises coming from your dryer, like thumping, squealing, or grinding, can be early signs of worn-out drum belts, rollers, or bearings.
Don’t ignore the sounds. Catching and fixing these dryer issues early can help avoid major damage and expensive repairs later.
✅ Professional Tip: If your dryer starts sounding off, call for a service inspection before it gets worse, and a small dryer repair becomes a major one.
Item #4. Take Any Burning Smells from Your Dryer Seriously
If you ever notice a burning smell coming from your dryer, turn it off immediately. This may be caused by lint getting into the heating element, which is a serious potential fire hazard.
This issue should be diagnosed and repaired by an appliance repair professional as soon as possible.
✅ Safety note: Never run the dryer unattended if it has a persistent odor, burning smell or overheating issue.
Item #5. Keep the Area Around Your Dryer Clear – Don’t Block Airflow
Store detergents, laundry baskets, and other items away from the back and sides of your dryer. Blocked airflow or restricted space can lead to overheating and wear down components faster.
Item #6. Level the Dryer to Prevent Uneven Wear
An unlevel dryer may vibrate excessively or cause drum misalignment. Use a bubble level to check and adjust the feet of your dryer if needed.
✅ Professional Tip: Excessive shaking or “walking” during a cycle is a clear sign that your dryer may not be sitting flat.
Item #7. Check the Dryer Vent Cap Outside
Go outside and inspect the dryer exhaust vent cap, which may be on the side of your house or on the roof. Make sure it’s not blocked by lint, debris, or nests. A clogged exterior vent prevents hot, moist air from escaping, which can impact dryer performance.
✅ Professional Tip: If the flap doesn’t open when the dryer is running, your airflow is restricted.
Need Help With Dryer Maintenance or Repairs? Alliance Appliance Services is Here to Help
If you’re in the Northern Virginia or DMV area and notice any of the signs above, or just want peace of mind with professional repair or inspection, we’re here to help.
Our Northern Virginia appliance repair technicians can safely and efficiently handle everything from vent cleanings to belt replacements and heating element repairs.
