Gas Dryer Needs Little Regular Maintenance

QUESTION: We own a gas dryer. We’ve had absolutely no trouble with it and would like to keep it that way. Isn’t there something we should check or oil or grease? Is there such a thing as a preventive maintenance program for a gas dryer? We would much rather service it occasionally than have it break in service.

ANSWER: Of all the laundry appliances, a gas dryer probably requires the least attention. The most important maintenance you should perform is to check periodically for lint buildup.

To do this, disconnect the dryer from its power source and remove the lower front panel. Most dryers tend to collect lint in and around the base as well as in the cooling air slats of the drive motor. The motor could overheat if these vents are blocked. Use a vacuum cleaner and-or a brush to remove any lint you can see. Take particular care around the gas burner because its igniter is very delicate. Careless cleaning could damage it and require a service call.

Check the drive belt for dryness and cracking. If the belt looks glazed, worn or cracked, replace it before it breaks. As for lubrication, the motor bearings are permanently lubed and sealed so should require no attention.

Some bearing surfaces can be lubricated, but it is not mandatory. You could add a drop or two of 20-weight non-detergent motor oil to the two rear-drum roller shafts and to the idler pulley shaft.

The drum is supported in front by a Delrin plastic bearing and felt. Spraying this area with silicone lube helps the drum move freely.

Look for lint buildups around the exhaust duct and the vent hood and pay special attention to the plastic ducts that tend to collect lint more easily than the smoother metal ducts.