Dryer Not Getting Hot? Solutions Here
Is your dryer failing to heat up and dry your clothes? That damp laundry can be frustrating when you need warm, dry clothes to wear. But don't worry - most dryer heating issues can be fixed with some troubleshooting and repair.
From a clogged lint screen to faulty parts like the heating element or thermostat, there are several common culprits behind a dryer not getting hot. Read on for troubleshooting tips to diagnose the specific cause and fix your dryer to get it heating properly again.
Common Causes of Dryers Not Heating
When a dryer won't heat up to dry clothes, the issue is typically one of these five common problems:
Faulty Heating Element
The heating element generates the heat needed to dry the clothing. Over time, this element can burn out and fail to produce any heat. Visual inspection will confirm if the element is broken or burned out.
The heating element is made of coiled metal wires that heat up to temperatures of 500-600 degrees Fahrenheit. Excess lint buildup around the heating element can overheat the coils and cause them to burn out faster over time.
Thermal Fuse Failure
The thermal fuse shuts off power to prevent fires if the dryer overheats. If the exhaust vent is clogged or airflow is restricted, the dryer may overheat quickly and cause the thermal fuse to blow. Replacing this inexpensive fuse can get the dryer heating again.
The thermal fuse is a safety mechanism that breaks the electrical circuit if temperatures exceed safe operation. Make sure to clear any vent restriction after replacing this fuse.
Clogged Ventilation
Lint and debris easily clog up the ventilation hose or wall ductwork venting the hot air outside. Blocked vents cause overheating and activation of the thermal fuse. Cleaning the ventilation system is key.
Restricted airflow causes excess heat buildup inside the dryer, longer drying times, and higher operating costs. Prevent vent clogs by cleaning the system annually.
Bad Thermostat
A defective thermostat won't properly control the drum's temperature. The thermostat may need replacing if the dryer heats briefly but then cools down instead of staying hot.
The thermostat controls power cycling to the heating element to maintain the proper air temperature. If the thermostat malfunctions, it can no longer effectively regulate temperatures.
Loose Wiring
Electrical connections can loosen over years of vibration. This can interrupt power supply to the heating element. Inspect wiring connections on the heating element and thermostat.
Faulty wiring and loose connections account for over 50% of electric dryer failures. Check all wires for tight, secure connections.
Other Causes of Lack of Heat
In addition to internal dryer issues, external factors can contribute to drying problems:
Gas Supply Defects
For gas dryers, an improper gas hookup, malfunctioning safety valve, or kinked gas line tubing can affect heat. Hire a technician to assess gas issues.
Heavily Loaded Drum
Overstuffing the dryer can prevent proper airflow circulation needed to dry clothing efficiently. Only dry full but not tightly packed loads.
Wet Loads from Washer
If the washing machine fails to adequately spin out water before the drying cycle, clothes retain excess moisture making them harder to dry.
Diagnosing the Exact Cause
With many possible reasons for a dryer not heating, diagnosing the specific problem is key before attempting repairs. Follow these troubleshooting steps:
Check the Heating Element
Examine the heating element for visible damage. Check for continuity with a multi-meter. No continuity means it needs replacement.
Inspect the Thermal Fuse
Check for blown thermal fuse, indicated by no continuity on multi-meter. Very hot exhaust air also points to blown fuse.
Ensure Proper Ventilation
Disconnect vent hose at dryer and ensure ductwork not clogged. Reconnect tightly. Test airflow by running dryer - strong steady stream should blow out ductwork.
Test the Thermostat
Use a multi-meter to test for continuity. If thermostat fails test, it likely needs replacement. Also check it doesn't trip breaker when heating element activates.
Check Electrical Connections
Inspect wires at heating element, thermostat, drum rollers, and control panel for loose fittings. Tighten any loose wiring connections.
These diagnostic steps will confirm whether the heating element, thermal fuse, thermostat or wiring connections are causing the lack of dryer heat.
Tips for Troubleshooting No Heat
Trying a high heat cycle first helps narrow down where the problem lies. Here are helpful troubleshooting tips:
- Run dryer on the highest heat setting and start timer
- Check exhaust air after 5 minutes - if still cold, focus on heating system
- If exhaust is hot but clothes are not drying, suspect drum rollers or belt
- Monitor air temperature at 5 minute increments to isolate issue
- Repeated hot-cold cycling points to faulty thermostat
Tracking air temperatures during the cycle helps determine if lack of heat is consistent or intermittent.
Replacing a Faulty Heating Element
If testing proves the heating element is burned out and causing no heat issues, replacing this part is straightforward:
Locate the Heating Element
Consult your appliance diagram to find the dryer heating element location. It mounts on the back in most electric dryer models.
Unplug Wires and Remove Element
Unplug the two power wires on heating element terminals. Also remove mounting screws to detach it from dryer rear panel.
Install New Heating Element
Securely mount the replacement heating element in the same spot with screws. Make sure rubber gasket seats properly to seal airflow.
Reconnect Wires
Finish up by reconnecting the two power wires to the element terminals. Double check wires are tightly crimped.
When the Thermal Fuse Needs Replacing
If lack of airflow caused the small thermal fuse to blow, replacing this inexpensive part restores normal dryer operation:
Locate the Thermal Fuse
The thermal fuse mounts along the blower housing or heating element ductwork. Check your appliance schematic for the exact location.
Clip Out the Old Fuse
Use needle nose pliers to extract the blown thermal fuse. It connects inline with two wires.
Secure New Fuse In Place
Attach replacement fuse to existing wires. Make sure small fuse holder clips securely in place.
With the cheap new thermal fuse installed, check that nearby ductwork has no airflow restrictions before using dryer.
Fixing Clogged Vents for Proper Airflow
Preventing dryer vent obstructions is crucial for efficient, safe operation. Follow these steps to clear clogs:
Detach and Inspect Vent Tubing
Unhook rigid metal or flexible vent tube from dryer exhaust port. Check entire length of tubing for lint accumulation.