Last updated on August 14th, 2022 at 01:27 pm
A dryer is a vital home appliance that costs a great deal. Surges lead to damages that are quite expensive to fix; it is crucial to ensure these dryers are plugged in safely.
Most people tend to underrate the effect of a power surge on home appliances. As a result, an abnormal increase in the voltage causes electrical spikes.
It damages when this occurs, making people wonder if these surges damage dryers.
Power surges are abrupt increases in a home’s electricity supply that can damage electronic devices, dryers included. An increase in voltage discharges an arc of current that passes through the gadget and brings the heat. This damages the circuit and electrical elements of the dryer.
Why Won’t My Dryer Start After A Power Outage?
Wires experience a rush of voltage after a power outage. A current flow above the normal voltage capacity that appliances were designed to handle fills up the empty wires.
This surge damages the electrical elements of the dryer. It is expected, of course, for electrical appliances to stop working if there is a power surge.
When electrical power comes back after an outage, it goes through a surge. When electrical power comes back after an outage, it goes through a surge.
Dryers get damaged when there is a tidal wave of electricity. However, when voltage is stable, There are standard conditions in electricity, and dryer elements work well.
Damages to power lines, bad weather, and old equipment can cause the electricity to go out. So, the wires supplying electricity become barren of electrical current.
Although the power surges don’t immediately destroy the dryer, the damage accumulates. It causes a potential reduction in the dryer’s lifespan.
Is There A Reset Button On Dryers?
Yes, many dryers have a reset button located at the control panel.
Allow the dryer to cool down for a few minutes if its engine does not run. Then you can press the reset button.
Restart the dryer if no faults are noticed in its engine, switches, or electrical system.
The most likely causes of a dryer not starting are a blackout, a faulty thermal fuse or starter switch, and a defective door switch.
#1. Power Outage
After power outages, there is a massive flow of current that exceeds the standard power input of the circuit, causing damage to electronic appliances in homes.
#2. Thermal Fuse
Thermal fuses are employed to protect appliances from overheating. In addition, they are safety devices that help to prevent fire.
When a dryer’s thermal is blown, a dryer stops heating clothes, and in many cases, if the dryer has a malfunctioning thermal fuse, the dryer will not turn on at all.
#3. Faulty Door Switch
The dryer will not turn on with an open door as a precautionary measure. Door switches must be inspected regularly and be fixed if broken.
How Do You Reset A Dryer After A Power Outage?
Simply pressing the reset button resets a dryer. In other cases, the dryer should be unplugged for a few minutes and allowed to cool down before it is turned back on.
If a dryer doesn’t start after it’s been reset the usual way after a power outage, most likely, the thermal fuse has blown. If this happens, the dryer won’t work even after numerous attempts.
- Find the thermal fuse.
- Test the fuse to know if it’s dead
- Replace the fuse
Resetting dryers is recommended as it solves a lot of fundamental problems.
Can I Fix My Dryer Myself?
It depends on the type of problem the dryer has. In some cases, yes, there are easy steps you can take and some necessary tools you can use to fix your dryer.
This conserves time and simplifies a professional’s work by eradicating some problems.
Let’s discuss one by one:
#1. Read The Manual
The dryer manual always contains relevant information about it, and the manufacturer of that dryer brand might offer tips and steps that may prove helpful.
#2. Check The Plug
If a dryer doesn’t turn on, check to ensure it is plugged in. Although this seems simple most times, you’ll rarely bother to check the outlet the dryer is plugged into. These plugs may get loose and shaky when the dryer is in use.
#3. Check The Fuse
If a dryer is plugged in correctly but still won’t run, you should check if a fuse has blown or the circuit has no electrical flow.
You can replace the fuse or switch on the breaker. If there’s a problem with the outlet, then call a technician.
#4. Inspect the Thermal Fuse and switch
If a power surge has occurred in your home, there is a possibility that the thermal fuse may have been damaged and needs a replacement.
A door switch is necessary for the efficient running of a dryer. The dryer won’t run if the door is open, ensuring the door switch isn’t broken.
#5. Clean The Lint Filter And Dryer Vents
The lint filter in a dryer accommodates residue, so it is essential to clean it often. If the lint filter is filled up, air won’t flow freely to the dryer, making the machine work longer than required.
A dryer’s vent may get clogged or disconnected. When it gets clogged, you should clean it thoroughly with a brush or a tool that can reach it.
Conclusion
It is most likely for a surge to occur after a power outage. Surges damage electronic devices, so it is vital to turn dryers off when not in use.
Resetting a dryer solves some problems, and although there are some problems you can fix in your dryer, ensure to call a technician when necessary.
Source:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Power surge