Hotpoint Dryer Filter Cleaning

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Introduction

Clean the Hotpoint Aquarius TCHL73 dryer filter, also called the fluff filter or lint filter, to keep air moving through the dryer. The filter catches lint and fluff during drying, and a clogged filter can make drying take longer, use more energy, overheat the dryer, and damage the appliance. This guide was written for the Hotpoint Aquarius TCHL73, and similar Indesit tumble dryers may use the same filter layout with minor differences.

What you need

Step 1 Prepare the dryer

Switch the tumble dryer off at the power supply and unplug it before cleaning the filter.
Let the dryer cool before handling the filter if it was just used.
Clean the filter after every drying cycle to keep airflow clear.
A clogged filter can lengthen drying times, use more energy, and damage the dryer.

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Step 2 Remove the filter

Push the dryer door to pop it open.
Check the door opening and drum for any loose items, such as small clothing items.
Find the filter at the front of the door opening.
Lift the filter straight up and out of its slot.
Heavy lint buildup means the filter is doing its job.

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Step 3 Remove loose lint by hand

Use a finger to scrape the lint off the filter surface.
Peel off as much lint as possible, since it often comes away in a film.
Throw the lint away.

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Step 4 Vacuum the filter

Use a wet/dry vacuum to remove the smaller lint pieces left on the filter.
Use a handheld wet/dry vacuum if you have one, since it gives easier control.
Clean into the nooks and crannies of the filter.
Don't press hard on the gauze because it can rip.

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Step 5 Rinse and dry the filter

Run cold water through the filter for a final clean.
Don't put the filter in a dishwasher because the water will be too hot.
Dry the filter completely before reinstalling it.
Never put a wet filter back into the dryer.

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Step 6 Clean the filter housing

Use a wet/dry vacuum to clean inside the slot where the filter sits.
Remove lint and fluff from the housing so the filter can seat correctly and air can flow freely.
Use a handheld wet/dry vacuum if you have one, since it fits into the housing more easily.
Clean the condenser unit at the bottom of the dryer once a month.

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Step 7 Reinstall the filter

Slide the dry filter back into its slot.
The filter only fits one way, so don't force it.
Plug the tumble dryer back in and switch it on at the power supply.
Use the dryer only after the filter is fully seated.

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Step 8 Check the dryer after use

Inspect the filter after every drying cycle, even after a short or 60-minute cycle.
Remove any new lint buildup before running another load.
Check inside the drum after a cycle for small items left behind.

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Conclusion

Clean the filter after every cycle, keep the filter housing clear, and clean the condenser unit at the bottom of the dryer once a month. Repair didn't go as planned? Ask our Answers community for help.

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