Roper Dryer Felt Seal Worn: Clothes Catching - Diagnosis... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The dryer's main control unit (MCU) doesn't directly monitor the felt seal. However, excessive friction caused by a worn seal can indirectly affect motor performance, potentially leading to longer drying times or even motor overheating. Voltage paths are not directly relevant to the felt seal itself; however, a damaged motor caused by excessive friction could manifest in voltage irregularities to other components.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that clothing is getting caught in the gap between the dryer drum and the dryer cabinet. This is often accompanied by torn fabric or excessive lint accumulation on clothes. They may also notice a burning smell if the clothing is rubbing excessively.

Possible Causes:

Worn or deteriorated felt seal.
Improper system of the felt seal during previous repair.
Excessive lint build-up around the seal.
Damaged drum support rollers causing drum misalignment.
Dryer operating with overloaded conditions repeatedly.
Worn or damaged drum causing excessive friction on the felt seal.

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel (240V AC). Verify with a multimeter.
2

Remove the dryer front panel, typically using a 1/4-inch nut driver or Phillips head screwdriver. Note the wiring to the door switch for reassembly.
3

Carefully remove the dryer drum. Support it to avoid damage to the cabinet and the drum rollers.
4

Inspect the existing felt seal for wear, tears, or detachment from the drum. Note how it's attached (adhesive, clips).
5

Clean the area where the new felt seal will be installed. Remove any old adhesive or lint build-up with a putty knife and mild solvent. Ensure the surface is clean and dry.
6

Install the new felt seal, ensuring it's properly seated and securely attached with appropriate adhesive (high-temp silicone). Refer to the dryer's service manual for correct placement and orientation.
7

Reinstall the dryer drum, making sure it's properly aligned and rotates freely. Check drum rollers for wear and replace if necessary.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the dryer at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock-out/Tag-out (LOTO) procedures should be followed to prevent accidental energization. 240V AC is present within the dryer; exercise extreme caution.

Prevention:

Clean the lint filter after every load. Periodically inspect the felt seal for wear and tear. Avoid overloading the dryer. Clean the inside of the dryer cabinet and exhaust duct every 6 months to prevent lint build-up.

Expert Tip:

When replacing the felt seal, also inspect the drum rollers and idler pulley for wear. Replacing these components simultaneously can prevent future problems and ensure smooth dryer operation. Service Mode: Hold down the Start button + End of Cycle signal button for 5 seconds to initiate diagnostics for some models. Consult service literature.

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of adhesive is best for attaching a new felt seal?

High-temperature silicone adhesive is recommended for its durability and heat resistance.

•How often should the dryer exhaust duct be cleaned?

The dryer exhaust duct should be cleaned at least every 6 months, or more frequently if you notice reduced airflow.

•What are the signs that the drum support rollers need to be replaced?

Signs of worn drum support rollers include a noisy dryer, difficulty turning the drum, or excessive vibration during operation. Inspect rollers for flat spots or cracks.

Roper Dryer Felt Seal Worn: Clothes Catching - Diagnosis & Repair

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•What type of adhesive is best for attaching a new felt seal?

•How often should the dryer exhaust duct be cleaned?

•What are the signs that the drum support rollers need to be replaced?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: