How do you replace the felt seal in a dryer?

In order to replace the felt seal in a dryer:

Detach the access panels to reach out to the dryer’s drum, and then remove it from the cabinet.
You will find a thin strip surrounding the opening of the drum. Using a putty knife pry out the felt seal and clean the fastening glue remains from the surface.
Install the replacement felt seal to its place and apply fastening glue and let it dry completely.
Reassemble the dryer by reversing the steps.
If the felt seal is slightly longer, you may have to cut the edges to match the required length.
Make sure to apply the fastening glue to the adjoining edges to prevent any leakage.

Key Takeaways

A felt seal is typically installed between the drum and the door, and it helps to create a tight seal that keeps air and contaminants from entering the dryer.
Additionally, It stops hot air from escaping from the drum, which helps your clothes dry faster.
Apart from keeping the heat in and the moisture out these felt seals also help to reduce noise and vibration.
Replacement of a worn-out felt seal will require you to remove the drum from the dryer.

What is a felt seal in a dryer?

A felt seal is a type of seal that is made from felt material.

Felt is a textile material that is made from short fibers that are pressed and matted together.

So in layperson’s language, felt is a material that is made from wool, hair, or other fibers that have been pressed together.

It is often used to create seals because it is durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.

Apart from clothes dryers, felt seals are also used in other appliances, such as washing machines and dishwashers.

So, a dryer felt seal is just a strip of felt that is used in dryers and is usually placed at the rear end of the drum.

It is simply a thin strip of felt material that helps to seal the gap.

It helps prevent warm or hot air, i.e., moisture, from escaping the dryer and also keeps lint from entering the drum.

How to replace the felt seal in a dryer?

Follow the steps below carefully to replace the felt seal in your dryer.

Step 1: Disconnect the supplies to the dryer

Start by unplugging the dryer from power and then disconnect the other supplies such as water, gas, vents, etc.

If you have a gas dryer, don’t forget to disconnect the gas supply.

Step 2: Detach the required access panels

You can start taking your dryer’s outer panels off by using a screwdriver or nut driver.

In most cases, the front and top panels need to be removed to access the dryer’s drum.

Once the required panels are off, keep them aside, along with the retaining screws or nuts.

Step 3: Remove the dryer’s drum

To replace the felt seal in your dryer, you will need to remove the drum.

Remove the drive belt carefully and unbolt the drum to get it off its mounting.

Pull the drum out of the dryer either from the front or the top portion as per convenience.

Step 4: Remove the old felt seal

Use a putty knife or a flathead screwdriver to pry the old felt seal off the surface.

Take your time and remove it carefully by avoiding any damage to the surface, as you will need to install the replacement.

Step 5: Install the replacement felt seal

Once the surface is clean, you can now align the replacement felt seal properly.

You can use fastening glues if required on the surface for a firm grip.

Make sure there isn’t scope for gaps between the adjoining points and between the drum and the seal.

Step 6: Reassemble the dryer

Start by placing the drum in its place and securing it with the required hooks and grooves.

Reconnect the wires and align the drive belt in its place.

Next, reattach the dryer panels and reconnect the supplies.

Step 7: Run a test cycle

Finally, plug the dryer into power and run a test cycle to make sure the dryer is working as efficiently as it was before.

Make sure to inspect for any leaks through the door area.

Final Thoughts

A felt seal helps to prevent hot air and moisture from escaping the dryer, thereby making the device energy-efficient and reducing wear and tear on your clothes.

Furthermore, it also helps prevent lint and other debris from entering the unit.

Felt seals are sturdy in general and last for a long time. In some cases, the felt seal can last as long as the dryer does.

However, if it gets damaged, you can get it replaced yourself with the basic hardware tools, as the steps are pretty straightforward as soon as you manage to locate it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the felt seal located in a dryer?

The felt seal is located around the door opening of the dryer. It is usually fastened to the dryer drum with adhesive. It helps to create a seal between the door and the dryer drum so that hot air does not escape.

Why should you replace the felt seal in a dryer?

If your clothes are taking longer to dry than usual, or you notice that there is heat escaping from around the door, it is likely that the felt seal is either damaged or worn out and needs to be replaced.

Does a felt seal universally fit all dryers?

The size and the length may vary depending on your dryer type and model.

Can you run a dryer without a felt seal?

Running your dryer without a felt seal is not advisable, as it will cause the dryer to work less efficiently and may also damage your clothes. The felt seal helps create a seal so that hot air does not escape and your clothes get dried quickly.

How often should you replace the felt seal in a dryer?

In general, a felt seal can last as long as the dryer lasts. However, if it starts to deteriorate, it is advisable to replace it so that your dryer continues to work efficiently.

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