DRYERS

1. Why is my dryer taking so long to dry my clothes?

Drying times will vary according to the type of heat used (gas vs electric), the size of the load, the type of fabric (cottons hold more water than synthetics), the wetness of the clothes, and the condition of your exhaust venting.

When clothes are taking a long time to dry or do not seem to be drying, the below troubleshooting tips can correct the problem.

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug the dryer from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

• Using the proper venting and making sure the vent pipe is the proper length is very important to the operation of the dryer. GE Appliances recommends the use of solid metal vent pipe, 4” in diameter, for adequate operation. 4” flexible metal venting may be used, but will increase drying time somewhat. GE Appliances does not recommend the use flexible, white, plastic vent pipe. This type of vent pipe can collapse and restrict the airflow, causing lint to build up inside the dryer. This build-up could cause the heaters to fail prematurely. Consult the Installation Instructions for the proper length and number of turns for the vent pipe.
• Check for an obstruction in the ducting. Make sure the outside wall damper is operating easily. If flexible ducting is used, be sure that it is not kinked and is installed properly. It is recommended that you clean the duct work completely at least once a year.
• Remove and clean the lint filter each time it is used. The filter can be washed with warm soapy water to remove fabric softener residue from the screen.
• Check the household fuses and circuit breakers. Most household dryers use two fuses or circuit breakers. It is possible for only one of them to trip and the dryer still tumble, but not heat.
• The washer controls may have been improperly set. If the clothes are wetter than normal, coming from the washer, this could be the difficulty. If the gentle speed is selected for a normal load the washer will not spin adequately. High speed or extended spin removes more water from clothing decreasing drying time.
• There may be too many items in the dryer. Only dry one washer load at a time. Do not combine washer loads to make one large dryer load. There may be too few items in the dryer. If the machine is not leveled a small load may migrate to the back. If drying only one article and the dryer is level, add two similar articles, even if they are dry, to ensure proper tumbling. If less than 5 items are to be dried, timed dry should be used.
• Improper sorting can cause drying difficulty. Do not mix heavy, hard-to-dry items with lightweight articles.
• There could be a washer service issue. If water can be wrung or squeezed from the clothing when it is taken from the washer and the appropriate setting was selected, the situation may be a loose washer drive belt or the transmission. Service is recommended.
• On sensor dry models it is important that the dryer is level to ensure clothes are tumbling properly and can make contact with the moisture sensors located in the lower front of the dryer.
• If the dryer is on a 120-volt circuit instead of a 240-volt circuit the drying time will be three times as long.

If the above suggestions do not resolve the issue, service may be needed.

2. Why won't my dryer start?

If the dryer will not start there are a few things you can check to see if you are able to correct the situation.

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug the dryer from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning. Turn the house circuit breakers/fuses to the off position.

If your dryer will not run or start, check the following:

• Make sure the dryer plug is pushed completely into the wall outlet.
• Check that the dryer door is closed tightly.
• Make sure that the cycle selection button is positioned on the desired temperature, fabric, and drying time.
• Ensure that the START button has been depressed completely.
• Open the dryer door and inspect the condition of the door switch. If the door switch is scorched or pushed in, this may cause the dryer not to operate.
• Check to be sure that house circuit breakers / fuses are operational. The dryer should be on a separate circuit.
• Electric models only:
• Inspect the power cord at back of the dryer for a broken, burned, or loose connection. Reconnect if necessary.
• Check the terminal block. If wires and/or terminal connections are burned, broken, or frayed, replacement of both will be necessary.
3. What do I do if my dryer runs, but does not heat?

If your electric dryer runs but will not heat there are a few things you can check before scheduling service.

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning

If the electric dryer runs but does not heat, check the following:

• The dryer should be on a separate 208V/240V electrical outlet.
• An electric dryer may run with a partial voltage of 110 volts, but it will not heat unless it has 208/240V, 30 amps. The circuit breaker could have partially tripped, even if it does not look as though it has. Turn off the breaker to the dryer and turn it back on to restore full power.
• Check the circuit breaker/fuses. The dryer requires a 30 amp dual breaker or two 30 amp fuses.
• Make sure you have the right timer selection, fabric setting, and temperature selection. The timer should be set to dry and not fluff or cool down. Move timer pointer to mid-range selection.
• Make sure front of dryer is not blocked; air flow is needed to dry.
• Check the power cord. The power cord may have a burned, broken, or loose connection at the back of the dryer.

The power cord of the dryer connects to a terminal block at the rear of the dryer. A metal plate covers this terminal block.

1. Remove the screws holding the metal plate in place to access the terminal block connections.
2. Check the power cord; look for burnt, broken, frayed, or loose wire connections. If wires and/or terminal connections are burned, broken, or frayed, then replacement of both will be necessary.

If the above suggestions do not resolve the issue, service may be needed.

4. Why is my dryer making a squeaking noise?

There are normal sounds/noises associated with your dryer.

The following are normal dryer sounds:

• A squeak when the unit is started is normal; the sound should go away after the first few seconds of operation.
• The sound of the drum as it turns.

Sounds that are not normal:

• Thumping sound.
• Humming sound.
• A squeak that develops after unit has heated up, but unit does not squeak when cool.
• Squeaking that is very short and repeats every few seconds (a chirping sound).

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

If you are hearing noises or other sounds that are not normal, check the following:

• Some start-up squeak is normal; the sound should go away after the first few seconds of operation. If the sound continues, we recommend you contact service.
• Gas Dryers may produce buzz when the solenoid opens. The valve clicks at the start of the heat cycle, start of ignition and when the burner turns off. The flame makes a low roaring sound.
• Make sure dryer is level and on a secure floor, and that nothing is leaning against the dryer.
• Check all exposed screws, and make sure they are tight. Loose cabinet screws may cause a squeak.
• Check for foreign objects below the lint filter:
• Remove lint filter, and look down opening.
• If you need to stick your hand down the opening to remove an object, be careful because the edges could be sharp.
• It would be advisable for you to wear a pair of work gloves.
• Foreign objects in the drum front seal and worn or loose drum slides can cause a metal scraping noise as the drum rotates. We recommend you contact service.
• Check for foreign objects in the drum like coins, paper clips, etc. Buttons and zippers will make a rattling sound as they roll around in the drum.
• A frayed or damaged belt will make a thumping sound, which would require service.

If your dryer is making unusual noises and the above suggestions do not resolve the situation, discontinue use of the dryer until it has been checked by a qualified servicer. Continued use may cause wear of other parts, making the repair more costly.

5. What do I do if the timer is not advancing on the automatic cycle of my dryer?

When a dryer timer is set on a Timed function, the timer knob will advance incrementally. This is normal.

When the dryer is set to an automatic cycle, the timer will advance sporadically. At times, it may appear that the timer is not advancing; however, if the timer advances periodically during the indicated cycle this is a normal operation.

• The automatic thermostat control system continually senses the temperature of the air in the dryer drum.
• Wet laundry keeps this air cool. When the laundry is dry enough, the heat turns off.

If the timer is not advancing in the Automatic cycle and/or the Timed cycle, it will require diagnosis to determine what parts are needed.

6. What do I do if my dryer or timer stops mid-cycle?

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning. Remove lint filter. Using a flashlight check for an obstruction in blower.

If the dryer timer stops during the cycle check the following:

• Check the power supply. Electric dryers require a separate 220-volt outlet, 30 amp dual breaker or two 30 amp fuses.
• Make sure the front of the dryer is not blocked causing it to overheat.
• When dryers are put in the automatic cycle the timer will advance sporadically so it may at times appear that it is not advancing at all.
• GE Profile™ Series stainless steel dryers (DPSB620 and DPSB650) have an automatic no-load detection system.
• When a sensor cycle is started in the dryer, the dryer will detect the presence of a clothes load. If no load is present, the dryer will automatically shut itself off after about 2 minutes then displays “Clean Lint Filter” light or display screen.
• This may also occur on dryers which are tilted to the rear. This tilt causes the clothes load to move to the back of the dryer drum away from the sensor rods. The dryer should be leveled front to back to correct this problem.
• This feature saves energy and reduces wear on the dryer.
• Models with Detangle have reverse tumbling to reduce tangling, dry more evenly, and improve drying times. When the dryer reverses direction, there will be a slight pause and sound change. It will turn counter-clockwise 9 minutes, clockwise 1 minute.

If the above suggestions do not resolve the issue, service may be needed.

7. Why do my clothes sometimes come out of the dryer wrinkled or tangled?

Reasons for clothes wrinkling:

• Improper sorting of the load (i.e. loading large, heavy items with lightweight, delicate materials).
• Too many items in washer for the load size.
• Use of incorrect wash cycles. Incorrect water level during the wash cycles (not enough water for amount of clothes).
• Washing repeatedly in water that is too hot for fabric.
• Accumulations of lime scale due to use of carbonate detergents.
• Failure to use fabric softener.

Note: If you follow good laundry procedures and “permanent press” clothes still come out wrinkled, the finish may no longer be good quality. The permanent press “memory” has been worn away.

Steps to prevent wrinkling:

• Avoid laundering heavy permanent press items, such as work clothes, with lighter permanent press items, such as shirts or blouses.
• Do not wash permanent press items with ordinary items such as towels, bed linens, etc.
• Items must have room to move freely. Permanent press loads should always be smaller than regular loads, and no more than medium loads.
• Use Permanent Press Wash Cycles. This cycle provides a cool down rinse to minimize wrinkling.
• Use Full water fill for medium load, Medium fill for small loads.
• If a non-phosphate detergent must be used, avoid the use of a high-carbonate detergent (high carbonate would be in the 7% range).
• Proper use of fabric softener will minimize wrinkling.
8. What do I do if my dryer drum isn't turning?

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning. If dryer drum is not tumbling / turning:

• Make sure dryer is not overloaded. A load of heavy, wet clothes, such as towels or blue jeans, may cause the drive belt to slip. Remove some of the clothing and try again.
• Make sure the drum does not turn freely (turns counter-clockwise during operation). If it does, the belt may be broken or loose and service will be required.
9. What temperature should I expect during my dryer cycles?

The internal temperature of a dryer may be affected by several variables. Some of these variables are noted below:

Variable	Impact
Load Size and Dampness	The combination of these two factors determines the amount of Heat Sink. Heat Sink is the cooling action taking place when the clothes give up their moisture to the hot air stream that is flowing through the dryer drum.
Room Temperature	A dryer pulls air in and heats it up to help dry the clothes. Hence, the air temperature of the room may affect the outgoing temperature in the dryer.
Air Flow	Restrictions in air flow such as long vents, vinyl flexible ductwork, or lint build up will cause heat to rise rather than following its designed air flow pattern. When this occurs, safety thermostat(s) will sense the high temperature building within the drum and cycle the heat source off until the excessive temperature has subsided.

Listed below are the internal temperature range specifications for dryer operating thermostats in extra-large capacity dryers manufactured after August 1992 and large capacity models manufactured after January 1994. Models manufactured prior to these dates had higher acceptable internal temperatures. Most 120V models reach approximately 145F during operation.

Note: The below table represents outlet thermostat set points and not the air temperature in the drum. Medium and High Heat have the same outlet thermostat temperature set points however, their technical applications are different.

Cycle	Temperature
Low Heat (Delicate/Gentle)	125°F
Medium Heat Permanent Press)	135°F
High (Normal/Cottons)	135°F

Note: Special equipment and procedures are used by factory trained technicians to diagnose temperature related problems in a dryer.

10. What should I do if my dryer case becomes very hot, and moisture collects around the door?

Proper airflow is very important to the operation of the dryer. There are some things that can be checked and some things should be done periodically to get the best operation from the dryer.

• Inspect and clean the exhaust ducting at least once a year to prevent clogging. A partially clogged exhaust can impair performance.
• Check wall cap on the outside for any obstruction. Snow or ice should not be allowed to accumulate around the outside wall cap.
• Check the installation instructions to be sure that the proper number of elbows are used relative to the correct length of venting. This could also cause the dryer to condense or sweat around the door opening and on the door.
• Do not stack clothing on the floor in front of the dryer since the dryer draws air in along the front at the floor.
• The vent should be semi-rigid metal or flexible metal only. GE Appliances does not recommend plastic flexible duct. If the dryer cannot rid itself of the excess heat and humidity it will build up inside the dryer drum. This type of buildup may cause the dryer to be hot to the touch, sweat, and may increase your drying times.
• For best operation use a four-inch wall cap on the outside.
• Always use the proper heat setting for the fabric you are drying.
• On sensor dry models it is important that the dryer is level to ensure clothes are tumbling properly and can make contact with the moisture sensors located in the lower front of the dryer.
• The dryer should always be used in a heated location. Using a dryer in an unheated location particularly in the cooler months can cause dryer to condense or sweat.

Electric models only:

• Disconnect the vent from the back of the dryer and run a load or two. If the symptoms go away it is likely you had a venting problem. If the symptoms continue there may be a service issue with the dryer.
• Note: Do not operate a gas dryer without the vent; possible carbon monoxide fumes could enter the room around the dryer.

Note: Venting problems are not considered a manufacturing defect and are not covered by your warranty.

11. Why isn't my dryer buzzer working?

Many GE Appliance dryers feature an End of Cycle signal. There is less chance of clothes getting wrinkled if they are removed from the dryer promptly, and the signal alerts you that the cycle is about to end.

• 1995 and newer dryers give several short buzzes a few minutes before shutting off.
• 1994 and earlier models buzzed for approximately 1/2 minute to 2 1/2 minutes just prior to the end of each drying cycle.
• Normal = approximately 1 minute 15 seconds (minimum 18 sec., maximum 2 minutes 12 seconds), depending on the model.
• To stop the buzzer on these models, advance the timer to the OFF position, (or turn the end-of-cycle signal selector to OFF). Opening the door may not terminate the signal.

GE Appliances offers 4 signal types:

• Variable: This signal can be turned on and off and has an adjustable tone. Most models can be programmed for one of three tone levels. Models with this feature have a Signal knob or Volume button on the control.
• Deluxe: This signal can be turned on or off and is not adjustable. Models will have a Signal On/Off knob on the control.
• Fixed: This signal is “fixed” and the volume cannot be adjusted. It will buzz automatically at the end of the cycle and once the timer moves to the OFF position, it will automatically shut off.
• No End-of-Cycle Signal: These models have no signal and one cannot be added.

On some models, a Signal Option switch will disable the buzzer when not wanted or needed.

12. Why do I have so much lint in my dryer?

The clothes coming out of washers will have more lint on them than previous model washers; this is normal. It is the function of the dryer to remove the remaining lint from the clothes, not the washer. It is possible to get more lint collected around the lint filter and door area of the dryer. For this reason it is important that the dryer be properly installed.

To minimize the possibility of electric shock, unplug this appliance from the power supply before attempting any maintenance or cleaning.

Make sure the following items are working correctly:

• Make sure vent hose is four (4) inches in diameter, solid metal or aluminum not plastic, and is the proper length per the Installation Instructions.
• Clean the vent hose. Build up in the hose can prevent lint and moisture from being vented properly.
• Check outside wall cap, and make sure it is opening fully.
• Remove and clean the lint filter with soapy water; dry thoroughly before reinstalling. Fabric softener can coat the small openings and allows less lint to pass through.

If these have been addressed and you continue to have Linting concerns, we recommend that you contact service.

13. What are some suggestions for proper dryer venting?

The following suggestions are some things that can be performed for periodic maintenance to get the best operation from the dryer.

Proper airflow is very important to the operation of the dryer.

• Inspect the vent coming off the back of the dryer. Check to ensure that the vent hose has not kinked or collapsed. The vent should be rigid metal or flexible metal only. DO NOT use plastic flexible ducting. Plastic vent hose collapses easier and collects water.
• If the dryer cannot rid itself of the excess heat and humidity it will build up inside the dryer drum. This type of buildup may cause the dryer to be hot to the touch, sweat, and may increase the drying times.
• Clean the vent regularly by either vacuuming it or cleaning it with an appliance brush.
• You can purchase an appliance brush set from GE Appliance Parts.
• For best operation use a 4” wall cap on the outside of your home. Check the outside wall cap for any obstructions. Snow or ice should not be allowed to accumulate around the outside wall cap. If there is not a strong airflow at the wall cap, it is an indication that duct is obstructed and should be cleared or improved. Local duct cleaning services can perform this service.

Location can affect dryer performance.

• The dryer should be used in a heated location. Using the dryer in an unheated location, particularly in the cooler months, can cause condensation or sweating. This can also affect dryer cycle times.
• Make sure the dryer is on a flat surface and has been leveled properly. For leveling assistance, consult your Installation Instructions.
• Clothing or other items should not be placed on the floor in front of the dryer. Air is drawn in at floor level along the front of the dryer.

Always use the proper heat setting for the fabric being dried.

• Load size and fabric type can affect how quickly the load dries. For loads like towels, for example, using high heat and a “More Dry” setting will allow the load to dry more effectively.

Test the dryer's performance (Electric models only)

• Disconnect the vent from the back of the dryer and run a load or two. If the symptoms continue there may be a service issue with the dryer. If the symptoms go away, it is likely there is a venting problem.
• Caution: Do not operate a gas dryer without the vent. It is possible that carbon monoxide fumes could enter the room from the dryer.
14. How do I reverse the opening of my dryer door (so that it opens from right to left / left to right)?

GE and Hotpoint top load and front load matching dryers have a 180 degree right hand door swing (hinges on the right), though most models have reversible doors.

Reversible Door:

• Check the product specifications for the model to determine whether the doors are reversible. No additional hardware or kits are needed to reverse the doors.
• To reverse the door swing, consult the Installation Instructions for your dryer.
• Dryers with pocket handles will have a pocket (to place your hand to pull open) located at the top and bottom of the dryer door. This allows for a pocket to be located at the top of the door no matter which way the door swings.