How To Open A Dryer Front For Lint Cleaning

All dryers have a lint trap that prevents lint, dust, hair and other debris from entering the dryer's ventilation system. The lint trap is either located on the top of the dryer cabinet, or in the dryer door jamb. It is important to clean the lint screen after each load to prevent a fire. As part of the regular maintenance of your dryer, you should also disassemble the dryer and thoroughly clean the lint trap compartment every six to 12 months, depending on the frequency of usage. To clean the lint trap compartment of a lint trap located in the dryer's door jamb, you must remove the front panel of the dryer.

Step 1

Unplug the dryer from the wall prior to servicing.

Step 2

Slide a putty knife under the front left and right sides of the control panel to release the spring clips. Alternatively, if your dryer has two plastic end-caps on the left and right sides of the front of the control panel, pull the end-caps off and then remove the screw below each end-cap. Lift the control panel up and rotate it behind the dryer.

Step 3

Remove the two screws at the rear of the top panel and then slide the top panel forward and lift if off of the dryer.

Step 4

Insert a flat-head screwdriver or putty knife into the gap between the upper and lower front panel of the dryer. Depress the two spring clips to release the lower dryer panel. Remove the lower panel.

Step 5

Unclip the two door springs on the left and right sides of the lower cavity.

Step 6

Remove the screws from the bottom corners of the upper panel, as well as the lint-screen duct screws, which are on the silver ductwork in the lower compartment.

Step 7

Unplug the moisture sensor wire, located at the bottom right of the side of the dryer drum.

Step 8

Unplug the door sensor wire, located on the right side of the inside of the top of the upper panel. To disconnect, lift the tab on the connector and pull the two connectors apart.

Step 9

Remove the screws from the top portion of the upper panel and then lift the upper panel up and off of the dryer. Place the upper panel face down on a solid surface.

Step 10

Lift the panel slightly and open the door. With the door open, remove the lint screen from the lint trap.

Step 11

Remove the mounting screws from the lint trap and remove the lint trap cover.