February 25, 2015

How to maintain a Kenmore hybrid heat pump dryer

How to maintain a Kenmore hybrid heat pump dryer.
How to maintain a Kenmore hybrid heat pump dryer.

Routine maintenance of a Kemore hybrid heat pump dryer is very similar to a standard dryer. By following a care and maintenance routine, you can help extend the dryer's life.

Lint filter care

Before each cycle, clean the lint filter. Open the dryer door and pull the lint filter straight up. Roll the lint off the screen using your fingers. Place the filter back into the filter housing and press down until it clicks, locking in place. If the lint filter is loose or missing, an error code of F0 will occur and the dryer will not operate.

Fabric softeners can build up on the lint filter screen over time, restricting airflow. If the screen looks dark or dirty after removing the lint, clean the filter using hot soapy water and a stiff brush. Let it dry completely before reinstalling.

Interior and exterior cleaning

To prevent damage to the dryer door seal caused by lint and dust buildup, periodically wipe around the door opening and seal with a clean, damp cloth. Clean the window with warm water and a mild, nonabrasive detergent, then wipe dry.

Use warm water and a nonabrasive detergent to clean exterior surfaces. Wipe off any spills immediately with a soft, damp cloth. Never use steel wool or abrasive cleaners, as they will scratch and damage the surface. Remove lint and dust from around and under the dryer with a vacuum cleaner.

Maintaining the exhaust system

The most common cause of dryer problems is poor exhaust venting. Once a month, check the vent ducts for lint buildup. Clean the home’s vent ducts once a year to remove and prevent blockages in airflow.

The dryer monitors venting conditions continuously. If over several cycles it detects a problem with airflow, the Check Vent indicator light will blink. If the light blinks, stop the dryer and check for any kinks in the vent hose or obstructions in the vent duct.

Once the problem is corrected, it may take several cycles for the dryer sensor to reset and stop blinking.

Symptoms common to all dryers

Choose a symptom to see related dryer repairs.

Main causes: bad timer or electronic control board, door switch failure
Main causes: lack of electrical power, bad power cord, wiring failure, bad control board, blown thermal fuse, bad door switch
Main causes: clogged exhaust vent, bad motor relay, loose dryer door catch, bad door switch, control system failure, faulty drive motor
Main causes: bad drum support roller, damaged idler pulley, broken blower fan blade, worn drum glide bearing, bad drive motor
Main causes: door switch failure, lack of power, broken belt, blown thermal fuse, bad drive motor, control system failure
Main causes: damaged door strike, worn door catch
Main causes: bad gas valve coils, broken heating element, tripped safety thermostat or fuse, bad operating thermostat, control failure
Main causes: clogged exhaust system, heating system failure, deposits on moisture sensor, control system failure

Repair guides common to all dryers

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your dryer.

How to replace a dryer drum support roller

If your dryer thumps or squeals, replace the drum support roller to restore quiet to your home.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 90 minutes or less
How to replace a dryer thermistor

The thermistor senses the air temperature in the dryer. If your dryer overheats or doesn't heat at all, the thermistor could be the problem.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 30 minutes or less
How to replace a dryer idler pulley

The idler pulley exerts pressure keeps the drive belt tight so it can rotate the drum. A worn idler pulley squeals or squeaks when the dryer is running. Follow these instructions to replace it.

Repair difficulty
Time required
 90 minutes or less

Articles and videos common to all dryers

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your dryer.

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