Dryer Not Heating? Here's What to Check Before You Call for Repair
A dryer that runs but doesn't heat is a common problem — and sometimes an easy fix. Here's what to check yourself before you call a technician.
Dryer Runs But Does Not Heat?
A dryer that tumbles but does not heat is one of the most common service calls we get. The good news is that some causes are easy to check yourself — and if it is something simple, you may not need a repair at all. Here is what to check before you call for dryer repair.
1. Clean the Lint Filter and Exhaust Vent
This is the first thing to check, and it fixes the problem more often than you would think. A clogged lint filter or exhaust vent restricts airflow, and without airflow the dryer cannot dry — even if the heating element is working. Pull the lint filter and clean it. Then check the vent hose behind the dryer for kinks or blockages. If the vent is long or runs through a wall, you may need a vent cleaning kit or a professional vent cleaning.
2. Check the Heat Setting
Make sure you did not accidentally select an air-dry or fluff cycle. It sounds obvious, but we have seen it happen. Check the cycle selector and make sure it is set to a heated cycle like Cottons or Normal.
3. Check the Power (Electric Dryers)
Electric dryers use 240 volts — that is two circuit breakers, not one. If one breaker trips, the dryer will still run (the motor uses 120V) but the heating element will not work (it needs 240V). Check your breaker box and make sure both breakers for the dryer are on. If one has tripped, flip it off and back on.
4. Check the Gas Supply (Gas Dryers)
If you have a gas dryer, make sure the gas valve behind the dryer is open. If the gas supply is off, the dryer will run but the burner will not light. Also check that your home's gas supply is on — if other gas appliances are working, the supply is fine.
5. Listen for the Igniter (Gas Dryers)
On a gas dryer, the igniter glows orange and lights the gas burner. If you start the dryer and do not see the igniter glow (through the small window on some models) or hear the click of the gas valve opening, the igniter or the gas valve coils may have failed.
When to Call for Repair
If you have checked the lint filter, the exhaust vent, the power, and the gas supply and the dryer still does not heat, the problem is likely one of these parts:
- Heating element (electric dryers) — the most common cause of no heat
- Thermal fuse — a safety device that trips if the dryer overheats; when it blows, the dryer may still run but will not heat
- High-limit thermostat — prevents overheating; if it fails, it can cut power to the heating element
- Igniter or gas valve coils (gas dryers)
Our dryer repair service covers Venus, Sebring, Avon Park, Lake Placid, and the surrounding South-Central Florida area. Repairs start at $69, and we carry common parts for GE, Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, LG, Samsung, Frigidaire, and Amana.
Call 954-663-7959 to schedule a repair. If your dryer is not worth fixing, we also sell used and refurbished dryers with free local delivery on orders over $200.
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