If your electric dryer stops working, don't immediately go out and buy a new one. First, do a simple diagnosis and you may save yourself a lot of money.

What to check if your dryer stops working:

* This may sound like a no-brainer, but check to make sure the electrical cord is plugged in securely. Depending on where the outlet is and what is surrounding the outlet (such as pets roaming around), the plug can ease out enough to cause the dryer not to work. Also, check to make sure the cord isn't damaged in any way. A damaged cord can cause an appliance not to work and can be dangerous. Don't plug the cord back in if it is damaged.

* Check the breaker box to make sure a breaker hasn't tripped. If a breaker has tripped, turn it to the on position and see if the dryer is working. If the dryer keeps tripping the breaker, you need to find out why for safety reasons.

* Make sure the filter to the dryer is clean. Cleaning the filter regularly is crucial to allow adequate air flow. Even if the filter looks clean, do a test. Run water over the filter. If it doesn't flow through easily, the filter needs a good cleaning until water runs freely. Be sure the lint filter is dry before placing back in dryer.

* Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet and check for lint build up in the vent hose and any other areas that collect lint. Even if you clean your lint filter, there can be an accumulation of lint in other areas of your dryer and the hose. This can block air flow and cause your dryer to overheat. There are special tools to help with this cleaning process.

* Check the door switch on the dryer. A dryer door has to be closed properly to work. These switches are known to go bad and can be replaced.

* If you've checked all of the above and the dryer still isn't working, remove the control panel cover. Of course, the dryer should be unplugged from the electrical outlet first. Look for any corroded or burned terminals. This can be a clue as to what is causing your dryer not to work. The start switch, thermostat and timer are located in the control panel. If any terminals to one or more of these looks burned or corroded, they will need to be replaced.

By learning about the parts and function of an electric dryer, you can save a lot of money. Instead of buying a new dryer, it's possible the problem is very simple or only a part may need to be replaced. At the very least, you can weigh the difference in what it will cost to buy a new dryer versus repairing your current dryer.

Always use the utmost caution when working with an electrical appliance. Be sure to unplug from the outlet before diagnosing a problem.