Experiencing a recurring issue with my Splendide washer/dryer combo unit where towels consistently form dense mats and adhere to the drum interior after completing the dry cycle. This problem occurs regardless of load size variations - both light and heavy loads produce identical results.
The matted towels require manual separation and often necessitate running additional wash and dry cycles, though this remedial approach yields inconsistent results. The towels appear to compress into solid masses that conform to the drum's curvature.
Seeking technical analysis of potential root causes and systematic troubleshooting procedures to eliminate this operational malfunction. What mechanical or procedural factors contribute to this towel matting behavior, and what specific corrective actions should be implemented?
Your Splendide combo's towel matting issue is typically caused by insufficient airflow during the dry cycle or fabric softener buildup. The solution involves adjusting load composition, cleaning the lint filter thoroughly, and modifying your drying technique.
Your Splendide washer/dryer combo towel matting issue commonly occurs due to insufficient airflow during the dry cycle, which prevents proper tumbling action. Since you've noticed this happens regardless of load size and re-washing sometimes helps temporarily, common causes include a clogged lint filter, blocked exhaust vent, or worn drum seals allowing air leakage. The towels stick together when they can't move freely in the heated air stream, creating that frustrating mat against the drum wall.
Splendide combo units rely on precise airflow patterns to keep fabrics tumbling during the dry cycle. When towels mat together, it's because the heated air isn't circulating properly through the load. Common causes include restricted airflow - either from a clogged lint filter that hasn't been thoroughly cleaned, or more commonly, a blocked external exhaust vent that's preventing proper air evacuation.
Another factor specific to towels is their high absorbency and weight when damp. If the wash cycle isn't extracting enough water due to an unbalanced load or worn suspension components, the towels enter the dry cycle too wet. Heavy, damp towels then clump together and stick to the drum surface when the heated air can't penetrate the mass effectively.
Drum seal deterioration can also contribute to this problem. When the door seals or drum seals develop small tears or become loose, they allow heated air to escape instead of circulating through the clothes, reducing the tumbling action that keeps fabrics separated.
SAFETY WARNING: Disconnect power to the unit before performing any maintenance or repairs to prevent electrical shock.
Start by thoroughly cleaning your lint filter - not just the quick rinse you might normally do. Remove the filter completely and wash it with hot water and dish soap, scrubbing with a soft brush to remove fabric softener residue that can clog the mesh. Let it air dry completely before reinstalling.
Next, check your external exhaust vent. Go outside and locate where your Splendide vents (usually on the sidewall or roof). Remove the exterior vent cover and use your flashlight to inspect the ductwork. Look for lint buildup, bird nests, or damaged vent flaps. Use your shop vacuum to remove any obstructions, working from both the interior connection and exterior opening.
Inside your RV, disconnect the exhaust hose from the back of your Splendide unit. This typically requires loosening a clamp with your screwdriver. Inspect the hose for kinks, excessive lint buildup, or damage. If the hose has multiple bends or exceeds your model's recommended maximum length (check manufacturer specifications), this could be contributing to poor airflow. Clean the hose thoroughly with your vacuum and brush.
Check the door seal and drum gaskets for wear. Run your hand around the door gasket feeling for tears, and inspect where the drum meets the front panel. Any gaps or damaged seals should be cleaned and resealed with appropriate silicone sealant, or replaced if severely damaged.
For your immediate towel problem, you may try this loading technique cautiously: add one or two dry towels to your wet towel load before starting the dry cycle, but ensure total load doesn't exceed manufacturer capacity limits and be aware this can cause load imbalancing. The dry towels may help separate the wet ones and improve air circulation. Note that adding dry items will affect moisture sensor readings and may cause the unit to stop prematurely or run too long, potentially requiring manual cycle adjustment. Also, try using the "less dry" or "damp dry" setting initially, then running a second short cycle if needed - this prevents over-drying that can cause static cling and matting.
Call a certified Splendide technician if you discover the exhaust fan motor isn't running properly during the dry cycle - you should hear it operating when the unit switches to dry mode. A failing exhaust fan (correct part for your model - verify with dealer, around $180) requires disassembly of the unit and proper electrical connections.
Professional help is also needed if you find damaged drum seals that require accessing the inner drum assembly, or if the moisture sensors inside the drum are malfunctioning. These sensors tell the unit when clothes are dry, and if they're reading incorrectly due to lint buildup or damage, they can cause improper dry cycles that lead to your towel matting issue.
Additionally, if your unit is still under warranty and these cleaning steps don't resolve the problem, contact Splendide support rather than attempting further repairs yourself. Internal component failures like faulty control boards or heating elements should be diagnosed and replaced by authorized service technicians to maintain your warranty coverage.
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