Dryer - Timer is Not Advancing

Most dryers have both a Timed Dry cycle as well as automatic dry cycles that use a sensor to determine when to turn off. The timing of the knob advancing is different when in a Timed cycle versus an automatic cycle.

Diagnosing a Dryer Timer That Is Not Advancing

Timed Dry

What's Normal

When a dryer timer is set to the Timed Dry function, the timer knob will turn slowly as the time counts down. This is normal.

What's Not Normal

If the knob doesn't move at all throughout the cycle, this is not normal and service may be required.

Automatic Dry

What's Normal

Automatic dry cycles are the "named" cycle, like Whites, Permanent Press or Towels, and use a sensor that measures drum temperature to know when to turn off. When the dryer is set to an automatic cycle, the knob will turn at intervals. At times, it may appear that the timer is moving sporadically or not advancing at all. If the knob advances periodically during a sensor cycle, this is a normal operation.

The automatic thermostat control system continually senses the temperature of the air in the dryer drum. Wet laundry keeps this air cool, so the dryer continues heating to dry the clothes. When the laundry is dry enough, the air in the drum is warm and the heat cycles off.

What's Not Normal

If the knob doesn't move, even after an hour or more, the first thing to check is whether it is drying the clothes. You can find troubleshooting for drying concerns by visiting our Dryer - Taking Too Long To Dry Clothes or Not Drying at All article. If your clothes are dry but the knob has not moved from it's starting position, we recommend service.

Repair Service Recommended

If your dryer is not working properly, contact us for repair assistance. Please schedule a repair appointment with Bodewell.