The Surprising Truth Behind Why Your Tumble Dryer Is Flashing All Lights
What To Know
- The control board is the brain of the dryer, and a malfunctioning board can cause the machine to behave erratically, including flashing its lights.
- The dryer vent is an important part of the dryer system, as it allows hot, moist air to escape from the machine.
- If the lights on the dryer flash or the machine does not start, the door switch may be faulty and need to be replaced.
When your tumble dryer starts flashing all its lights, it can be a frustrating and confusing experience. Fortunately, there are several common reasons why this might happen, and most of them are relatively easy to fix. In this blog post, we’ll explore the most likely causes of a flashing tumble dryer and provide step-by-step instructions on how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.
Possible Causes of a Flashing Tumble Dryer
1. Overheating: If the dryer is overheating, it may shut off automatically and flash all its lights to indicate a problem. This can be caused by a clogged lint filter, blocked dryer vent, or a faulty heating element.
2. Faulty Door Switch: The door switch is responsible for ensuring that the dryer door is properly closed before the machine starts running. If the switch is malfunctioning, the dryer may flash its lights and refuse to start.
3. Broken Belt: The belt that drives the dryer drum can break or become loose, causing the dryer to stop working and flash its lights.
4. Faulty Control Board: The control board is the brain of the dryer, and a malfunctioning board can cause the machine to behave erratically, including flashing its lights.
5. Power Outage: If there has been a recent power outage, the dryer may need to be reset before it will start working again.
6. Overloading: Trying to dry too much laundry at once can overload the dryer, causing it to overheat and flash its lights.
7. Damp Lint Filter: If the lint filter is damp, it can restrict airflow and cause the dryer to overheat.
Troubleshooting Steps
1. Check the Lint Filter
The lint filter is the most common cause of a flashing tumble dryer. Make sure the filter is clean and free of any lint or debris. If the filter is clogged, clean it thoroughly and try running the dryer again.
2. Inspect the Dryer Vent
The dryer vent is an important part of the dryer system, as it allows hot, moist air to escape from the machine. If the vent is blocked or clogged, it can cause the dryer to overheat and flash its lights. Check the vent for any obstructions and clean it if necessary.
3. Check the Door Switch
To test the door switch, open and close the dryer door several times. If the lights on the dryer flash or the machine does not start, the door switch may be faulty and need to be replaced.
4. Check the Belt
To check the belt, open the dryer door and look for the belt that drives the dryer drum. If the belt is broken or loose, it will need to be replaced.
5. Reset the Dryer
If there has been a recent power outage, the dryer may need to be reset before it will start working again. To reset the dryer, unplug it from the power outlet and wait a few minutes before plugging it back in.
6. Reduce the Load Size
If you are trying to dry too much laundry at once, the dryer may overload and flash its lights. Reduce the load size and try running the dryer again.
7. Check for Damp Lint Filter
If the lint filter is damp, it can restrict airflow and cause the dryer to overheat. Remove the lint filter and check if it is damp. If so, dry it thoroughly before reinserting it into the dryer.
When to Call a Professional
If you have tried all of the troubleshooting steps above and your tumble dryer is still flashing all its lights, it is time to call a professional appliance repair technician. They will be able to diagnose the problem and repair the dryer quickly and efficiently.
Key Points
A flashing tumble dryer can be a frustrating problem, but it is usually not a major issue. By following the troubleshooting steps outlined in this blog post, you can identify and resolve the problem in most cases. However, if you are unable to fix the problem yourself, do not hesitate to call a professional appliance repair technician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is my tumble dryer flashing the clean filter light, even after I have cleaned the filter?
A: The clean filter light may continue to flash if the filter is not properly installed or if there is a problem with the filter sensor.
Q: My tumble dryer is making a loud noise and flashing the drum clean light. What should I do?
A: The drum clean light may flash if the dryer drum is unbalanced or if there is a foreign object stuck in the drum.
Q: My tumble dryer is not heating up and flashing the heating element light. What is the problem?
A: The heating element light may flash if the heating element is faulty or if there is a problem with the wiring.
