When your dryer stops heating, laundry day suddenly becomes much more complicated. Donât worryâthis is a common issue, and in most cases, itâs something you can diagnose yourself. Here are the top reasons your dryer may not be heating and how to fix them before calling a professional.
1. Check the Power Supply
Before diving into the dryer itself, make sure itâs getting the power it needs. Electric dryers require 240 volts, while gas dryers need both electricity and gas supply.
Steps to check:
- Ensure the dryer is plugged in securely
- Check your circuit breaker for a tripped switch
- For gas dryers, confirm the gas valve is open
- Test the outlet with another device to ensure power flow
đĄ Pro Tip: Electric dryers can run the drum even with only partial powerâso if it tumbles but doesnât heat, it might still be an electrical issue.
2. Clean the Lint Trap and Vent
Lint buildup is one of the most common causes of heating issues. It blocks airflow, making it harder for your dryer to circulate warm air effectively.
How to clean it:
- Remove the lint screen and clean it before every load
- Disconnect the dryer vent hose and clear any lint buildup
- Use a vacuum or vent cleaning brush to clean the duct
- Reattach and test the dryer
â ď¸ Warning: Clogged vents are not only inefficientâtheyâre a major fire hazard. Clean your dryer vents at least once a year.
3. Test the Heating Element
The heating element is what generates warmth inside your dryer. Over time, it can burn out or break, preventing your dryer from heating up.
How to test:
- Unplug the dryer before working on it
- Access the heating element (check your modelâs manual)
- Use a multimeter to check for continuity
- If thereâs no continuity, replace the element
4. Check the Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off heat if the dryer overheats. If it blows, your dryer wonât heat until itâs replaced.
Steps:
- Unplug the dryer
- Locate the thermal fuse (usually near the blower housing)
- Use a multimeter to test continuity
- Replace it if itâs blownâdonât bypass it!
5. Inspect the Thermostat and Sensors
Modern dryers have several thermostats and sensors to regulate temperature. If one of them fails, it can stop the heating system from engaging.
Troubleshooting tips:
- Check for visible damage or loose connections
- Use a multimeter to test continuity
- Replace any faulty sensors or thermostats
When to Call a Professional
If youâve checked the basics and your dryer still isnât heating, it may have a more complex electrical or control board issue. Contact Appliance Wizzard if you notice:
- No heat despite working power
- Burning smell or unusual noises
- Dryer runs but doesnât dry clothes
- Repeated blown fuses or tripped breakers
Our certified technicians are available 24/7 to diagnose and repair dryer problems quickly and affordably.
đ Special Offer: First-time customers get FREE diagnostic service and 10% OFF repair costs. Schedule your repair today!
đŹ Comments (10)
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Thanks for this! Turned out my thermal fuse was blown. Easy fix once I knew what to look for.
The lint vent was completely clogged. Cleaned it out and my dryer heats up perfectly now.
I didnât realize the drum could still spin even with no heat. That tip about partial power helped a lot!
Super detailed guide. Used my multimeter for the first time and found the issue myself. Thanks!
I had no idea the thermal fuse even existed. Replaced it and saved $200 on a repair call.
Great article! Iâll definitely be cleaning my lint vent more often from now on.
Called Appliance Wizzard last week for my dryer and they were fast and professional. Highly recommend!
That âcheck the powerâ tip really helped. One breaker was half-trippedâdryer heats fine now!
Very practical info. I feel more confident fixing small issues myself now. Thanks a ton!
Followed the steps and discovered a bad thermostat. Replaced it and itâs working great again!