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Dryer Not Heating? Common Fixes
A dryer that tumbles but doesn't heat is usually a blown thermal fuse (often caused by a clogged vent), a burned-out heating element (electric) or a weak igniter or gas valve coils (gas).
Safety first
- Unplug the dryer before opening it. Electric dryers use 240 V.
- On gas dryers, shut off the gas valve before work, and never repair gas lines yourself. If you smell gas, leave and call the gas company.
Tools
- Multimeter
- Nut driver set
- Screwdrivers
- Vent brush
Parts
- Thermal fuse, heating element or igniter matched to your dryer model number
Step by step
Clean the vent
Disconnect the duct and clean the full run to the outside. A blocked vent is the #1 cause of no heat and dryer fires.
Check the breaker
Electric dryers need both legs of a 240 V double breaker; a half-tripped breaker gives spin but no heat.
Test the thermal fuse
Labeled diagram: Test the thermal fuse. Tap to enlarge. Open the back panel, find the fuse on the blower housing and test for continuity. No continuity means replace it, and fix the vent.
Test the element or igniter
Electric: test the heating element for continuity. Gas: watch the igniter; if it glows but never lights, the gas valve coils are likely bad.
Replace the part
Install the model-specific replacement, reassemble the panels and run a timed dry to confirm heat.
When to call a pro
Call a pro for any gas leak, gas line work, or if the dryer trips the breaker repeatedly.
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