Why does my dryer keep stopping?

5 reasons why your dryer starts and stops.

If your dryer keeps stopping mid-cycle, there are ways to troubleshoot it on your own. However, for more advanced repairs, you should hire a pro.

Pro tip: Before attempting any repairs yourself, disconnect the wire from the dryer’s power source. This can help prevent electric shock or injury and avoid shorting the circuit breaker. Also, always read your owner's manual before attempting any repairs.

1. Overheating due to poor airflow.

An overheated dryer motor is one common reason a dryer will shut off. Overheating is usually the result of poor airflow due to a blocked vent or lint screen. Over time, an overheating motor can wear out and stop rotating the dryer drum altogether.

Troubleshooting tips:

• Find the housing that contains the lint filter.
• Hold the lint screen housing onto the front panel and remove the screws.
• Remove the lint screen housing and clean the filter.
• Replace the filter and see if this fixes the problem.
• If the dryer still overheats and shuts off early, it may mean you need to replace the motor.

When to call a pro: Removing the lint screen housing (and even replacing it) can be fairly straightforward. However, it’s advisable to get a quote from a dryer repair company if you suspect the motor needs to be fixed. The repair requires specialized mechanical and electrical knowledge.

Related: Why won't my dryer start?

2. Door latching improperly.

In some cases, your dryer may simply have a faulty door latch or door switch. Most dryers shut off automatically when they detect that the door is open. If your latch is broken, your dryer door may open slightly a few minutes into a cycle, causing the dryer to shut off.

Troubleshooting tips:

• Locate the latch and inspect it for any visible damage.
• Take the door off of the dryer by removing the hinges.
• Take the door apart and remove the latch to replace it.
• Once you have a replacement latch in the proper position, reassemble the door.
• Shut the door and run the dryer.
• If the control panel still indicates that the door is open, the door switch might be faulty.

When to call a pro: If you're handy, you can replace the door latch with little more than a screwdriver. A door switch, on the other hand, usually requires an experienced professional because it’s an electrical repair.

3. Malfunctioning moisture sensor.

A moisture sensor detects how much water is in the dryer during the cycle. If it isn’t working properly, it can cause the dryer to shut off prematurely. The sensor is fairly easy to clean.

Troubleshooting tips:

• Locate the sensor, a small set of metal strips usually in the front or rear of the drum.
• Check the moisture sensor. Clean the metal strips with fine sandpaper or steel wool, then run the dryer.
• If this doesn’t solve the problem, the sensor may need replacing.
• Remove the faulty sensor by removing the screw holding it in place.
• Detach the wire assembly and attach the new sensor.
• Position the assembly in place and retighten the screw.

When to call a pro: Wiping down the moisture sensor is an easy DIY task, but replacing it can be tricky if you’re not familiar with these kind of projects. Consider hiring a dryer repair professional if you've never performed repairs on appliances.

4. Broken drive belt or idler pulley.

A broken drive belt or idler pulley is another mechanical reason a dryer might shut off mid-cycle. The drive belt goes around the drum, and the pulley helps maintain tension and keep the belt in place.

Troubleshooting tips:

• Access the dryer cabinet by removing the top and/or back panel, making sure to disconnect the door switch.
• Once the drive belt is visible, inspect it for damage or complete breaks.
• Ensure the groove side of the belt is against the drum.
• If it looks okay, you can eliminate it as a reason your dryer is shutting off.

When to call a pro: You can check these without much mechanical knowledge, but replacing them usually requires a professional.

5. Small loads in the dryer.

This one is a really easy fix. If you don't have enough items inside, the sensors may not detect that there's still wet laundry in your dryer — and your dryer will shut off abruptly. To troubleshoot, just add more clothes and try again.

More troubleshooting resources for dryers that keep stopping.

Depending on the manufacturer, you may be able to find online materials to help fix your specific dryer. Consider visiting the resources linked below:

• Why does my LG dryer keep stopping?
• Why does my Samsung dryer keep stopping?
• Why does my GE dryer keep stopping?

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