Troubleshooting Gas Clothes Dryer Problems and Repairs

Gas clothes dryers use either natural gas or propane as a heat source. You'll find that gas dryers are a bit more expensive to purchase, $50 to $150 more than comparable electric models, but are more economical to operate. However, as with any appliance, there can be problems and a need for repairs. 

While a qualified technician is required in many states for any type of gas line repair, there are repairs you can make yourself that will save a service call.

How to Convert a Natural Gas Dryer to Liquid Propane 

Problem:

Gas dryers come from the manufacturer ready to install with natural gas. However, some areas only have liquid propane gas available. Can the dryer still be used? 

Solution:

1. Install a Conversion Kit

   Natural gas dryers connections can be easily converted to LP (liquid propane) with a conversion kit.

   The kit comes with instructions, but note: This is not just a quick connector change. You must open the dryer and do conversion work on the gas burner. Always check the building code regulations in your community for the installation of gas appliances. You may need a licensed technician. Place a call to your local utility for more information and safety requirements.

   If you need a repair manual for the dryer, you can find it here and gas conversion kits can be found online.

Timer Will Not Work on LG Gas Dryer

Problem:

LG dryer timer does not operate properly causing a 30-minute cycle to stop after twelve to fifteen minutes. Can the timer be reset or repaired?

Solution:

1. Replace the Timer

   The timer is faulty. There is no way to "reset" the timer and it should be replaced. 

What Is the Proper Venting of Gas Dryer Exhaust 

Problem:

Outside venting for a new gas dryer will be difficult. Can it be vented into an unconditioned attic space?

Solution:

Neither gas nor electric clothes dryer should be vented to an indoor space because the moisture they exhaust can cause the growth of mold and mildew. Gas dryers must be installed properly and proper dryer venting systems are used to prevent house fires.

1. Choose a Ventless Clothes Dryer

   If venting a dryer properly is difficult or impossible, consider purchasing a ventless clothes dryer.

GE Gas Dryer Not Working on Every Cycle

Problem:

My GE gas dryer has four cycle settings but only works on three. It will not run on the cotton setting.

Solution:

Since the GE Gas Dryer is heating up properly on three of four cycles, it is most likely a malfunctioning thermostat or gas valve. Cotton is the hottest setting so this failure is signaling trouble ahead for every cycle.

1. Test the Thermostat

   Test the thermostat with a voltage meter. If it is not registering properly, it should be replaced.

2. Check the Gas Valves

   If the valves are not opening properly, this could cause a fluctuation in temperature. You will probably need a licensed technician to test the valves and make any repairs.

Amana Gas Dryer Burner Problem

Problem:

Igniter fires on Amana gas dryer but the burner does not light up.

Solution:

Several things could be causing this problem: the dryer's thermal fuse, bad coils on the gas valve, or a blocked vent. To pinpoint the cause, start with a test of the vent because it is easy and there are no parts to replace.

1. Test the Venting System

   Unplug the dryer from the electrical power source. Turn off the gas to the machine at the gas supply line. There should be a shut off valve on the supply pipe for this purpose. Once that is accomplished, pull the machine out so you can access the back. Being careful not to damage the gas line or venting system. Then disconnect the vent from the dryer and dry a normal load of clothes.

   If the same problem does not occur, the venting system is restricted.

2. Clean the Venting System

   If the dryer worked correctly with the venting disconnected, cleaning and clearing the venting system is required. Do not forget to check the outside vent hood flapper door. The flapper must be freely able to move. To clean the venting system you'll most likely have to remove the accordion-like tubing if it has been used. Replace it with new, safer metal tubing. 

   If the venting system is metal tubing, it may have to be disconnected in sections to access the inside and clean it out. 

3. Check the Thermal Fuse and Burner Coils

   If cleaning the venting system does not solve the problem, check the thermal fuse. If it looks dark, replace it (inexpensive part).

4. Check the Burner Coils

   Finally, check that the burner coils are functioning properly and replace them if needed.

Diagnostic Codes for Kitchen Aid Gas Dryer

Problem:

A Kitchen Aid Gas Dryer is not functioning properly and it is difficult to pinpoint the exact problem.

Solution:

Before starting any type of repairs, running a diagnostic program will help determine where to begin and what repair parts may be needed.

Here are the fault codes for Kitchen Aid Gas Dryers with the definitions showing Failure Code first, fault code description, and finally a possible solution:

• PF (power failure): PF flashes to indicate that a power failure occurred while the dryer was running. Press Start to continue the cycle, or press Pause/Cancel to clear the display.
• E1 (temperature sensor open): E1 flashes in the numeric display when the temperature sensing circuit is open. Replace the temperature sensor if it is faulty.
• E2 (temperature sensor shorted): E2 flashes in the numeric display when the temperature sensing circuit is shorted. Replace the temperature sensor if it is faulty.
• E3 (blower rotation failure): If during a cycle the blower rotational speed drops below 500 rpms (revolutions per minute), all outputs will be turned off and error code E3 will be displayed.
• E4 (tumbler rotation failure): If during a cycle the tumbler rotational speed drops to 0, all outputs will be turned off and error code E4 will be displayed.
• E5 (dry rack sensor): If during a Dry Rack cycle the signal is lost, all outputs are turned off and E5 is displayed.
• E6 (exhaust high limit fault): If the exhaust temperature goes above 87.7°C (190°F) all outputs will turn off and E6 will be displayed.