Electric Dryer Repair: Checking the Vent Hose for Kinks and Blockages

Electric dryer repair can be something that is more of a hassle than difficult. You will find that there are several different things that could be wrong with your dryer. However, more often than not, there is simply a kink or a blockage that is in the vent hose. This is something that can be easily fixed and usually can be done in just a few quick, easy steps.
Materials Needed
Flashlight
Pantyhose
Step 1 – Test
The first thing that you will need to do for your dryer is to run a test on it. You will find that the best way to do this is to unplug your dryer and move it away from the wall. From there, remove the vent hose and put some pantyhose over the opening instead. Plug your dryer back in and turn it on. If it goes with no problem then this means that the blockage is somewhere further down the hose. If it still stops, then it could be closer to the dryer itself.

Step 2 – Kinks
Kinks are usually much easier to spot than blockages. You will simply need to take the vent hose and view it in its entirety. You will be able to see a kink in the hose easily. Once you have spotted it, these are easy to fix and will require no more work once you have straightened out the kink. Simply attach the vent hose back to the dryer and plug it back in. Turn it on and make sure that it works accordingly afterwards.
Step 3 – Blockages
Once you have run the test, you will be able to get a good idea of where exactly the blockage may be. Use a flashlight as it is sometimes difficult to see into the vent hose. If the blockage is from further down the line then you may try to begin outside. It is not an uncommon occurrence for birds to make nests at the vent. This is because warm air comes out and it is a very comfortable spot. Start there and move your way back up to the dryer.
Step 4 – What to Look For
If you do not happen to see any kinks or blockages then this may not be the problem with your dryer. Your dryer is going to overheat if there is an issue with blockages or kinks. You will find that the best way for you to be able to fix this is by taking care of the easiest problem first. Of course the blockages and kinks is the quickest fix. However, if this is not the problem then you will have to look into other options of fixing your dryer. Usually the best thing for you to do at this point is to call a professional. You can also stop down at your local home improvement store. They will be able to answer any questions that you may have and get you pointed in the right direction.