Do fabric softener sheets ruin the effectiveness over time of the heat sensors in clothes dryers?

Question

Shopping for a new clothes dryer and was told that they do. Is it true?

Answer 1

hi fannie, what dryer sheets do is leave a sticky film on the filter and the air cannot pass through like it should. you can test yours by taking your filter...sprinkle a few drops of water on it...if it cradles in the filter, then it needs a soapy bath, then water and air will pass through it easily. i wash mine regularly. doing so saves wear and tear on your dryer's motor. the dryer sheets affect on the heat sensors in that it can cause over heating inside the motor. just check the following...filter washed regularly, the duct to the vent is clear of any obstructions, you can just hose them out, and your out door vent, make sure it fully open when the dryer is on and there is nothing obstructing it air flow. unless you have had heat damage to your dryer, then hold off on purchasing a new one until you have checked all that i have mentioned. good luck! i hope this helped!! :)

Answer 2

If the sensor is located in the drum and can be touched by the sheets, yes, it's true. Over time, the softener from the sheets will coat the sensor and make it ineffective. You can clean the sensor, of course, but if it is in a difficult location, prepare for some work.

We always use liquid softeners in the wash water. Our dryer is now approaching ten years of age and still works fine.

Answer 3

Yes they can eventually ruin the heat sensors by building up on them, if you want clean smelling soft clothes I can suggest another method of softning without the big expense of fabric softners or dryer sheets, add one cup to rinse cycle or fill the softner dispenser with White Vinegar, your clothes will come out soft and odor free. Good Luck !

Answer 4

yes and no depends on the dryer and placement of the sensor