A well-maintained clothes dryer can serve your household reliably for 10 to 15 years, while a neglected one may fail in half that time and consume significantly more electricity along the way. Having spent a decade as an appliance repair technician, I've seen countless dryers that could have been saved with basic maintenance, and others that ran beautifully for years because their owners understood a few simple principles.
This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about keeping your dryer in peak condition, from routine tasks that take seconds to deeper maintenance that should happen annually.
Daily and Per-Load Maintenance
The Lint Filter: Your First Line of Defence
If you only do one maintenance task, make it this one: clean your lint filter after every single load. This isn't just about efficiency; it's about safety and appliance longevity. A clogged lint filter forces your dryer to work harder, increasing wear on the motor and heating element while extending cycle times.
Remove the filter and peel away the visible lint layer. If you notice lint has worked its way through the mesh or accumulated around the edges, you're overdue for a deeper clean.
Checking Load Sizes
Overloading is one of the most common causes of dryer wear. When you stuff too many items into the drum, clothes can't tumble freely, leading to uneven drying, increased cycle times, and extra strain on the motor and drum bearings. As a general rule, the drum should be no more than two-thirds full.
Underloading wastes energy but doesn't harm the machine. For small loads, use your dryer's sensor dry feature if available, which will end the cycle when clothes are actually dry rather than running for a full timed period.
Weekly Maintenance Tasks
Wiping Down the Drum
Once a week, wipe the inside of the drum with a damp cloth. This removes any residue from fabric softeners, dryer sheets, or transferred stains that could otherwise build up over time. Check for any small items like coins, buttons, or hair clips that may have been left behind and could damage clothes or the drum itself.
Inspecting the Door Seal
The rubber gasket around your dryer door keeps hot air contained and prevents lint from escaping into the cabinet. Weekly, run your finger around the seal looking for gaps, cracks, or accumulated debris. Clean away any lint buildup with a damp cloth. A damaged seal reduces efficiency and can allow lint to reach places it shouldn't be.
Tip: The Fabric Softener Test
If your lint filter seems clean but clothes are taking longer to dry, fabric softener residue may be coating the mesh. Run the filter under water - if water pools rather than flowing through, scrub with warm soapy water and an old toothbrush until water passes freely.
Monthly Maintenance Tasks
Deep Cleaning the Lint Filter
Even with regular cleaning, lint filters accumulate a residue that blocks airflow. Monthly, wash your filter with warm water and mild dish soap. Use a soft brush to gently scrub both sides of the mesh. Rinse thoroughly and allow to dry completely before reinstalling. A damp filter can attract more lint and impede airflow.
Cleaning the Lint Trap Housing
Lint inevitably escapes past the filter and accumulates in the housing. Monthly, use a long, flexible brush (lint trap brushes are available at hardware stores) or the crevice attachment on your vacuum to clean deep into this cavity. You may be surprised how much lint has built up even with consistent filter cleaning.
Exterior Cleaning
Wipe down the exterior of your dryer with a damp cloth and mild cleaner. Pay attention to the control panel, avoiding excess moisture near buttons and displays. Clean around the edges of the door where dust and lint tend to accumulate.
Quarterly Maintenance Tasks
Exhaust Vent Inspection (Vented Dryers)
Every three months, inspect your exhaust ducting for issues. Disconnect the duct from the back of the dryer and use a flashlight to look for lint buildup, damage, or obstructions. Check that all joints are securely connected and that there are no crushed or kinked sections restricting airflow.
Outside, inspect the vent cap. Ensure the flapper moves freely and isn't blocked by debris, bird nests, or accumulated lint. Run a test cycle and verify that air is flowing strongly from the external vent.
Condenser Cleaning (Heat Pump and Condenser Dryers)
Ventless dryers have heat exchanger components that need regular cleaning. Consult your manual for the location and cleaning procedure, as this varies by model. Many heat pump dryers have a secondary filter protecting the evaporator that should be cleaned monthly, plus periodic condenser cleaning requirements.
Some premium models feature self-cleaning condensers, but these still benefit from occasional manual cleaning to maintain optimal efficiency.
Important: Water Tank Maintenance
If your condenser or heat pump dryer collects water in a removable tank, empty it after every use or two. Leaving water sitting can promote bacterial growth and unpleasant odours. Periodically rinse the tank with warm water and allow it to dry completely.
Annual Maintenance Tasks
Professional Vent Cleaning
For vented dryers, consider professional exhaust duct cleaning annually, especially if you have a long duct run or do heavy laundry loads. Professionals have rotating brush systems and powerful vacuums that can remove compacted lint from areas you can't reach.
Signs you need professional cleaning sooner include clothes taking noticeably longer to dry, excessive heat in the laundry room, or a burning smell during operation.
Drum and Cabinet Inspection
Annually, it's worth doing a more thorough inspection. Unplug the dryer and, if you're comfortable doing so, remove the back panel or front panel (depending on model) to inspect for lint buildup around the drum, motor, and heating element. If you see significant accumulation, vacuum it away carefully.
If you're not comfortable with this, have a technician do an inspection. The cost is modest compared to a house fire or major repair.
Levelling Check
Over time, dryers can shift out of level, especially if they're stacked or on an uneven floor. An unlevel dryer vibrates excessively, causing premature wear on bearings and drum supports. Use a spirit level on top of the drum (with the door open) and adjust the legs as needed until the machine is level both side-to-side and front-to-back.
Signs Your Dryer Needs Attention
Between scheduled maintenance, watch for these warning signs:
- Longer drying times: Usually indicates airflow restriction or sensor issues
- Excessive heat: The dryer exterior shouldn't be hot to touch; this suggests venting problems
- Unusual noises: Squealing, grinding, or thumping can indicate worn bearings, belts, or drum supports
- Burning smell: Stop immediately and investigate - this could be lint near the heating element
- Clothes coming out damaged: Check the drum for rough spots or objects caught in the baffles
- Error codes: Consult your manual; many indicate maintenance needs
Maintenance Schedule Summary
For easy reference, here's a complete maintenance schedule:
Your Maintenance Checklist
- Every load: Clean lint filter; check for overloading
- Weekly: Wipe drum interior; inspect door seal
- Monthly: Deep clean lint filter with soap; clean lint trap housing; wipe exterior
- Quarterly: Inspect exhaust ductwork; clean condenser/heat exchanger
- Annually: Professional vent cleaning; internal inspection; levelling check
When to Call a Professional
Some issues require professional attention. Call a qualified technician if you notice:
- The dryer won't start or won't heat
- Persistent burning smells after cleaning
- Electrical issues like tripped breakers or sparking
- Unusual noises that don't resolve with basic checks
- Error codes that persist after recommended troubleshooting
Regular maintenance dramatically extends your dryer's life and efficiency. The time invested pays dividends in lower energy bills, fewer repairs, and clothes that last longer. For more on keeping your dryer running safely, see our comprehensive dryer safety guide.