The dryer is important for drying clothes quickly and with fewer wrinkles. When the dryer stops working, it may not require an expensive repair or a new dryer. There are several small problems that can cause a dryer to stop producing heat or stop working completely. Perform these simple checks on your dryer to determine what kind of problem you're dealing with and the best approach to fix it.
Unplug the dryer and turn off the gas supply, if your dryer is gas-powered instead of electric. According to Home Tips.com, the gas supply can be turned off at the shut-off valve for the dryer.
Check the inside of the dryer for loose objects such as coins or jewelry. These can bounce around and cause a dryer to sound noisier when nothing is wrong with the dryer itself.
Check for loose belts or parts inside the dryer if it continues to make a strange noise. A repairman may need to check and replace these for you. If the tub inside the dryer does not turn, there may be a problem with the switch or motor. A repairman can check these problems and make the necessary replacements.
Check that the switch is working properly. Open the dryer door and find where it connects to the dryer when shut. Push the switch and listen for a click. If the switch does not click, replace the switch or have a repairman replace it. If the switch clicks but the dryer still will not turn on, check the power cord for breaks or cracks and replace the power cord if necessary
Pull the dryer away from the wall and check that the hose connecting the dryer to the vent is attached. Detach the hose from the dryer and check inside for lint or dirt that may be blocking the hose. Make sure to leave enough space between the dryer and the wall so the hose is not squeezed shut.
Replace the circuit breakers or fuses for the dryer if the dryer is not producing heat. There may be two circuit breakers/fuses and they must both work to produce heat.
Check that the gas supply is on, if you use a gas dryer. Check that the main gas valve for the house is on. An older dryer will have a pilot light on it. Relight the pilot light if it has gone out. Typically there will be a sticker with instructions on lighting the pilot light found beside it. If not, the instructions can be found inside the dryer's manual.