How to replace the lint screen in a dryer?

In order to replace the lint screen in a dryer:

  • Locate the lint screen with the help of the user manual for your dryer model.
  • The typical location is inside the drum hence unplug the dryer and open its door.
  • Remove the lint screen and then unmount its bracket to remove it from the drum.
  • Clean the bracket and fix it back to the drum.
  • Finally, install the replacement lint screen to its mounting bracket.

Key Takeaways

  • The lint filter should be the first place you should look for if your dryer isn’t operating at its optimum best.
  • Over time the filter goes through heavy clogging which can cause wear and tear.
  • A clogged lint filter can cause your dryer to overheat and potentially start a fire. Therefore replacing the faulty lint screen becomes a must.
  • Locate the filter housing which is usually located on the top or side of the dryer inside the drum and then remove the lint screen.
  • Replacing the lint filter is a simple process that only takes a few minutes.

What is a lint screen in a clothes dryer?

A lint screen is a mesh screen or a lint filter that helps to catch lint and other debris that can accumulate in a clothes dryer.

Excess lint can cause problems with the dryer’s operation, so it’s essential to have a lint screen replaced in the event of wear-outs.

It is usually in the front of a dryer and needs to be cleaned often to get rid of lint and other junk that has built up.

To maintain your dryer’s efficiency, one should ensure the lint screen is cleaned after each use.

If the lint screen is left uncleaned for longer, it will result in linting garments after every cycle.

Where is a lint screen located in a dryer?

The lint screen is located in the dryer’s drum, just above the opening where you load your laundry. You can usually find it on the top, front, or side of the dryer.

In some dryer models, they can be found at the door opening.

How does the lint screen wear out?

A lint screen is usually made of a fine mesh that catches lint, hair, and other small objects. The mesh is usually made of nylon or another synthetic material.

Some screens have a plastic or metal frame around the mesh. So, they are made durable to withstand high temperatures.

The lint screen catches any lint that is created during the drying cycle and keeps it from getting into the dryer’s ductwork.

Over time, the lint screen can become clogged with lint if left uncleaned, which reduces its ability to catch future lint.

Additionally, the constant exposure to heat and moisture can cause the mesh to break down, making it even less effective.

How to replace the lint screen in a dryer?

If your clothes come out of the dryer covered in lint, if the cleaning does not work, or if the screen has worn out, then it might be time to replace the lint screen.

Simply follow these step-by-step instructions to replace the lint screen in your dryer.

Step 1: Unplug the dryer

First, unplug your dryer from the wall outlet, and disconnect other supplies (the vent hose is optional).

This is because it will not require you to move the dryer in most cases.

For gas dryers, you can turn off the gas supply to the dryer.

Step 2: Remove the lint screen

Open the door of the dryer and pull out the lint screen from its mounting bracket.

Some dryer types may have the lint screen screwed or tabbed from the sides to its mounting bracket.

If this is the case, remove the screws that hold the lint screen in place.

In most cases, there will be two screws located at the top of the screen.

Once the screws are removed, you should be able to pull the lint screen out.

Step 3: Unmount the lint screen bracket

It is always better to unmount the lint screen bracket, clean it thoroughly, and then fix the replacement lint screen to it.

In most dryers, the mounting bracket can be removed by accessing it from the door itself.

You can unscrew the lint screen bracket from the sides or pry it out using a putty knife or a flathead screwdriver.

However, a few dryer types may require you to remove the front or top panel to unmount the lint filter bracket.

This is because they are screwed in from the outside of the drum’s surface.

Step 4: Verify the replacement part

As you have the mounting bracket out and cleaned, take a look at the new lint screen to make sure it is identical to the one you are replacing it with.

Try to place the lint screen on the mounting bracket to ensure a good fit.

In some cases, there may be a slightly different model number or other small variation.

If so, make sure to get the correct replacement before proceeding.

Step 5: Install the replacement 

Mount the lint screen bracket to its position and insert the new lint screen, push it to the tabs or screw them as per their requirements.

Be sure not to overtighten these screws, as this can strip them and make them difficult to remove in the future.

Step 6: Power the dryer

Finally, close the door and plug your dryer back into the outlet, then test it out by running a test dry cycle.

The lint screen should now catch any lint produced during drying, keeping your clothes clean and free of debris.

Make sure to clean the lint screen at least once a week to maintain its efficiency.

Final Thoughts

A lint screen is an important component of a clothes dryer, as it helps to collect lint and debris from clothes during the drying process, thus, avoiding lint buildup and decreasing the chance of starting a fire.

As a best practice, you should clean your lint screen after every load of laundry if you are a heavy user.

Cleaning the filter regularly will prevent premature wear-outs and fire hazards.

Lastly, always read the user manual to locate the lint screen and understand how to properly clean and replace it.

Frequently Asked Question

When should you clean the lint screen?

Before each load of laundry, the lint screen should be cleaned to make sure it works as well as possible.

How to clean the dryer’s lint screen?

To clean a lint screen, simply remove it from the dryer and brush off any lint or debris with a soft-bristled brush or your fingers. You can also rinse the screen with warm water to remove any stubborn buildup. Additionally, you can clean them using a vacuum cleaner.

Can I use the dryer without a lint screen?

If you use the dryer without a lint screen, it may result in a clogged venting system. Moreover, your laundry will be full of lint. The surface of the dryer drum will have lint accumulated on it as well.

Manish Singh is an expert in electrical engineering with a Diploma in the field. With over 12 years of experience, he specializes in repairing music systems, washing machines, dryers, and other laundry-related appliances. His in-depth knowledge in electrical repairs and decent knowledge about garment care makes him a trusted authority in the field of appliance repair and laundry related topics. If you have any questions or need assistance with your appliances, you can reach out to Manish through email: manish.singh (at) portablelaundry.com