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Dryers are classified according to the kind of power that provides their heat either electricity or gas. But even a gas dryer uses electricity for all its non-heating actions. The parts of a dryer are shown at right; the inset illustrates the gas heater that heats a gas dryer.

When your dryer doesn’t do its job, look first to the basics. Is it plugged in? Is the cord defective? Has the dryer’s fuse blown or circuit breaker tripped? Clean the lint trap and use a vacuum or a piece of wire to remove any lint from the exhaust duct. If the load seems too wet to dry efficiently put it through the washer’s spin cycle again.

For other problems and remedies, see the chart below.

CAUTION: Before doing any work on your dryer, pull the plug. Turn off the gas supply to a gas dryer, at either the appliance shutoff or the main shutoff valve. Should you smell gas, get out out the house immediately.

Parts of a Clothes Dryer

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When your washer doesn’t work, think first of the power supply. Be sure the cord is plugged in and isn’t defective; then check the fuse or circuit breaker.

A kinked water supply or drain hose can be the culprit. Straighten the kink; if you can’t, replace the hose.

Oversudsing causes leaks and blocks drains. To reduce the suds, pour 1/2 cup white vinegar mixed with some cold water into the washer. Next time, use less detergent (try a low-suds type).

Water temperature not right? Be sure the faucets are fully open, screens in the water inlet valve or hoses aren’t clogged, and there’s lots of hot water.

If the washer won’t spin or begins to vibrate, the wash load may be too large or out of balance. Try removing some items or redistribute the load.

For causes and remedies of these and other problems, see the chart.

CAUTION: Before making repairs, pull the plug and turn off the faucets.

Parts of a Clothes Washer

durch : E-book Home repair

A dishwasher has its full share of parts that can become blocked, jammed, or clogged. Let the drawing and the chart guide you through the various problems and their remedies. Very hot water 140 to 160F is basic to good service from a dishwasher.

Some dishwashers are equipped with an air gap (see inset) to prevent waste water from backing up into the washer. Because it collects bits of waste, the air gap must be cleaned regularly (remove the cap and cover and use a wire). A dishwasher without an air gap has a high loop in the drain hose; be sure it’s not kinked, and clear any obstructions from it with a length of wire when necessary.

CAUTION: Before making repairs, pull the plug from the receptacle. Turn off the hot water valve under the sink before working on the water inlet valve or disconnecting the hot water hose.

Parts of a Dishwasher

durch : E-book Home repair