LG DLG9588SM Gas Dryer- Intermittent Heat

[Larbo]

Hi, I have a 10 year old stacked washer/dryer combo from LG. I am no longer able to physically effect repairs myself but instead have an extended warranty policy.  I closely monitor and manage their repair activities as best I can to save both time and inconvenience. Lately, the dryer heat is working intermittently. The clothes in the dryer were always very warm when the cycle was done. That is no longer the case though I can hear the gas flame go on after a few seconds whenever I start a cycle.

I decided to try a power reset and unplug the dryer, followed by pressing the power button a few times.  I have done this twice and both times the dryer returned to normal behavior for about a week.

I had figured that this intermittent problem was probably caused by a thermocouple/connection issue or a control board/connection issue. With the confirmed power reset success I now think it is likely the control board. What do you think?? Thanks, Larry

[john63]

Not likely.

LGs wiring/connectiins are stout...unlike many other brands...using micro-gauge wiring and/or ribbon connectors.

For your particular symptom...I would try to rule out a few things.

1. Are you empty nesters? Has someone moved out of the home recently?

If yes...it is likely that you're doing more smaller loads of laundry now. Not necessarily in every case.

2. Using a level bar...at the top of the dryer (depth not width)...is the dryer dead level or slightly raised in the front?

If yes...

It will be necessary to raise the rear feet/legs of the stacked dryer...about 3/4 inch.

This will force small loads of laundy towards the front of the dryer drum...which is where the Moisture Sensor is located.

If clothing tumbles at the center or rear of the drum...the Main Board will not receive signal feedback from the sensor.

Begins terminating the cycle at an accelerated rate.

The last 6 minutes of the cycle is always...Cool-Down No Heat...to reduce wrinkles prior to ending the cycle.

There can be other causes...but this is the *first* item to rule out.

 

 

 

[Larbo]

Hi John, thanks for the thoughful reply.

1. First on my logic list is a change of situation and nothing has changed in our usage patterns ... and not empty nesters (yet)!

2. The front is about 1/8" above level. But, then again, that hasn't changed. Our loads do not tend to be small.

3. The clothes had always been very warm at the end of a cycle and are now practically room temp with the perforated heat grill on the back of the tub only having the slightest hint of warmth.  Even mid-cycle when we pull some damp clothing out to let air dry (to prevent wrinkles), the clothes are now often barely warm, whereas, they were always very warm before the problem started.

4. We almost always use the Normal cycle.  Maybe it is the Moisture sensor having lost sensitivity? If you think it may be that, is there any way to test that sensor?

5. Don't you find it odd that both times  I performed the power reset, it worked perfectly for the following week?

Thanks, Larry

[john63]

6 minutes ago, Larbo said:

 

4. We almost always use the Normal cycle.  Maybe it is the Moisture sensor having lost sensitivity? If you think it may be that, is there any way to test that sensor?

 

5. Don't you find it odd that both times  I performed the power reset, it worked perfectly for the following week?

4. No. Moisture Sensors do not degrade or become weakened/less effective.

5. Not at all...coincidences are common.

Several other possibles...

1. Failing relay on main board (intermittent).

2. Failing Flame Sensor (intermittent)

3. Failing Gas Valve Assy (intermittent)

4. Weak burner Igniter (intermittent)

5. Exhaust venting (in wall/ceiling of home)...40 to 60 percent blocked/restricted

6. Waxy residue on Lint Filter...restricting airflow...excessive gas burner cycling.

7. Laundry room is tiny...and someone is closing the non-vented door...when the dryer is running...causing air starvation...excessive gas burner cycling.

8. Door gasket (rubber) fell off.

[john63]

My "gut" is telling me...

"It's probably #05"

[Larbo]

First I will try to brush out the stack vent this weekend. Thanks

[Larbo]

Also, 6, 7 and 8 are out.

[john63]

Sounds good:)