Why Does My Dryer Keep Stopping Mid-Cycle?
Discovering damp clothes in the dryer can bring laundry day screeching to a halt, and in some cases, force you to start over at square one. Use this guide to discover possible causes and solutions for a dryer that stops mid-cycle, then learn tips for maintaining your dryer for optimal performance.
7 Possible Reasons Why Your Dryer Keeps Shutting Off
If your dryer keeps stopping mid-cycle, it could be due to anything from overloading to faulty or damaged parts. Check out seven potential reasons for a mid-cycle stop below, along with possible solutions to help get your laundry routine back on track.
1. Overloaded Dryer
Your clothes need some breathing room in the dryer. An overloaded dryer can cause the door to pop open mid-cycle, cutting the cycle short and leaving you with damp clothes.
Possible Fix
Make sure the dryer isn’t tightly packed and clothes can move freely. For larger loads, aim to fill the drum no more than about ¾ full.
2. Broken Dryer Belt
Dryer drive belts help keep the drum spinning smoothly, but if one snaps, it can end the cycle prematurely as it brings the dryer to a halt.
Possible Fix
Swapping out a broken drive belt might do the trick, but it’s no small task. You’ll need to remove the dryer panel, so it’s usually best to call in a professional to access and replace the belt.
3. Faulty Moisture Sensor
Your dryer's moisture sensor tells the machine to end the cycle once your clothes are dry. However, if the sensor is faulty, it may cause the dryer to stop in the middle of a cycle.
Possible Fix
Since dryer moisture sensors are usually tucked away behind panels and the control board, it's a good idea to have a professional handle the inspection. They can assess whether the sensor needs to be replaced.
4. Misset Timed Dry Settings
Your dryer offers different cycles tailored to tackle unique types of loads. The length of each cycle can change based on the settings you choose, but selecting the wrong cycle for your load may cause the dryer to stop too soon, leaving you with damp clothes.
Possible Fix
To get the most out of your dryer, check your owner’s manual for guidance on which cycles work best for different loads. You'll learn when to use the Heavy Duty Cycle, Normal dry, Delicates Cycle and more, so every load gets the right amount of drying time and power.
5. Damaged Door Latch
The door latch is crucial for keeping your dryer door securely closed as clothes tumble around inside. If the latch becomes warped, it can cause the door to pop open, cutting the cycle short.
Possible Fix
Take a close look at your dryer’s door latch for any kinks or distortion. If your model has two latches, both need to be in good shape to keep the door securely closed. Call a professional if anything seems off, since they may need to take apart some components to fix or replace the latch properly.
6. Faulty Door Switch
Closing the dryer door activates the door switch, allowing the cycle to start when you select the start button. However, if the switch is faulty, it might not register that the door is shut properly. This could lead to the cycle stopping early or not starting at all.
Possible Fix
Door switches are typically affordable and straightforward to replace. Consult your owner’s manual for specific part details, and if you're unsure about handling the repair yourself, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional for assistance.
7. Broken Thermal Fuse
Thermal fuses are essential components in every dryer, designed to help prevent fires by shutting off the appliance if dryer temperatures get too high. If a thermal fuse is triggered, it needs to be replaced before you can use your dryer again.
Possible Fix
To find out if the thermal fuse is responsible for the dryer stopping mid-cycle, parts of the machine will have to be disassembled to inspect the fuse. It’s best to contact a professional for help determining if the fuse needs to be replaced.
Shop Maytag® Dryer Replacement Parts
Replacing faulty parts can help your dryer run smoothly load after load. Maytag brand offers plenty of dryer replacement parts to help your dryer perform at its best, but you don’t have to navigate repairs on your own. You can visit the Maytag® Owner Center for help troubleshooting the problem, finding the right part or scheduling a service call.
Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance is key to ensuring your dryer stays in peak condition year after year. Explore the tips below to discover how you can help your dryer run smoothly for the long haul.
Regularly clean the lint trap: Make it a habit to clean the lint trap after every drying cycle, and deep clean it at least every six months by vacuuming the interior, exterior and moisture sensor strip.
Wipe down the interior: Fabric softener and laundry detergent residue can accumulate inside the dryer drum, but cleaning the drum occasionally can help keep it at bay. For electric dryers, use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and dish soap. For gas dryers, opt for a liquid, nonflammable household cleaner. After cleaning, wipe away any excess cleaner with a towel and run a cycle with towels to ensure everything is completely dry.
Wash lint screen: Clean the buildup on the lint screen every six months using a brush and hot water combined with a liquid detergent. Scrub both sides of the lint screen, then rinse and dry it with a towel.
Clean internal and external venting: Debris and lint can build up in your dryer’s venting, impacting its performance. Clean the internal vents by unscrewing the clamps, removing large lint by hand and using a brush or vacuum to clean out any lingering lint. For external vents, find the vent outside your home, clean out large lint pieces and use a brush and vacuum to remove debris.
Explore Maytag® Dryers
Maytag® dryers come equipped with the features you need to dry loads the first time. The Extra Power button on select models boosts drying power by extending time, heat and tumbling, all with the touch of a button. Plus, some models include Advanced Moisture Sensing that monitors inside moisture and air temperatures to help evenly dry loads.
