Decision tree
Dryer restricted airflow troubleshooting.
Stop-and-check guidance for dryer airflow, vent blockage, lint, long dry time, and overheating warnings.
Safe first
- Stop use if the dryer overheats, smells hot, or the vent is severely restricted.
- Clean the lint screen before any retry.
- Unplug before moving the dryer or checking duct connections behind it.
Stop and call service when
- The dryer overheats or smells hot.
- The exterior vent cannot open or airflow remains weak.
- The warning returns after lint and visible vent checks.
Decision sequence
Clean the lint screen
A clogged lint screen is the lowest-risk check and appears in several official dryer airflow and heating warnings.
Check visible exhaust routing
Look for crushed, kinked, disconnected, or blocked visible duct sections without pulling the dryer into an unsafe position.
Escalate hidden vent runs
Long, hidden, or hard-to-trace ducts should be handled by a qualified vent cleaner or service provider.
Related code records
d80 error code
Usually indicates that dryer airflow is restricted or the exhaust duct may be clogged.
tE1 error code
Usually indicates that the dryer detected a thermistor or temperature-sensing issue.
tC error code
Usually indicates that the dryer detected a temperature or temperature-sensor issue.
HC error code
Usually indicates that the dryer is getting too hot or has a heating-related fault.
AF error code
Usually indicates that the dryer detected restricted airflow through the lint screen or vent system.