An electric dryer needs a 240-volt current to produce heat and dry your clothes. If it stops working, there could be a few different reasons. Either the outlet or the cord may not be working properly for the following reasons.
Blown or tripped fuse or circuit breaker
The first step is to go to the electrical panel to see if either the fuse or circuit breaker serving the electrical dryer is blown or tripped. If the circuit breaker has been tripped, the cause could be a wiring problem in the machine, a problem with the dryer outlet or dryer cord, a broken and shorted heating element, or an issue with wiring coming from the electrical panel to the dryer.
Loose electrical connections
Poor electrical connections at the connection point of the cord and outlet and at the electrical terminals could not only stop the dryer from working, but also increase the risk of an electrical fire.
A detached electrical connection under the burned terminal could lead to an increase in resistance that generates heat. Increased demand from the dryer will increase heat and cause the plastic housing around the blades of the electric dryer cord to heat up.
You’ll need a professional inspection of the dryer circuit to check the wiring and look for signs of arcing and black soot.
Bad connection
A bad connection between the cord plug and the outlet can also cause heat buildup. The cause could be worn out finger grips in the outlet or inadequate tension within the outlet. Depending on the cause, you may need the electric dryer outlet replaced or repaired.
Damaged cord
Look for any signs of damage on the cord, such as hot melting marks around the prongs or exposed wiring. The cord may need to be replaced to get the dryer back up and running.
The two different types of outlets for 240-volt electric dryers are three-slot and four-slot. A three-prong outlet has two hots and a ground, while a four-prong outlet has two hots, a neutral, and a ground. The ground is a backup for the neutral. The four-prong outlet is a newer type of installation in the US.
If you have any questions about repairing your electrical dryer or would like professional service, call Tucker Hill!