How to Fix a Dryer with No Heat

Is your dryer not drying your clothes properly? Do your damp clothes come out feeling cold rather than warm and toasty after a cycle? If your dryer seems to be blowing cold air instead of heating up as expected, you likely have an issue causing a lack of heat that needs to be addressed.

A dryer not heating is a common problem many homeowners face. Thankfully, with some troubleshooting and maintenance, you can often get your dryer heating again and avoid the costs of a repair visit or new appliance purchase.

Common Causes of No Heat from a Dryer

There are several common culprits behind a dryer not heating properly:

• Clogged lint screen or vent hose. Lint buildup restricts airflow, preventing the dryer from heating up effectively.
• Blown thermal fuse. This safety device stops electricity to the heating element if the dryer overheats.
• Faulty heating element. Over time, the heating element can burn out and stop working.
• Damaged thermostats. Thermostats regulate dryer heat by cycling heating element on and off.
• Broken motor. If the motor isn't turning, the dryer won't generate heat.

Before diving into repairs, double check that:

• The dryer is plugged in and the outlet is functioning.
• The fuse or circuit breaker for the dryer is not tripped or blown.
• The dryer door is properly closed.
• The cycle is set correctly for the items being dried.

Step-by-Step Guide to Diagnose and Fix

Repairing a dryer with no heat is often an easy DIY project you can tackle in an hour or two. Here are the steps:

1. Unplug the dryer and turn off gas supply (for gas dryers).
2. Remove the back panel or lint filter housing.
3. Check and clean the lint screen, exhaust vent, and interior ductwork.
4. Inspect the thermal fuse, heating element, thermostats, and wiring using a multimeter.
5. Replace any faulty parts and reassemble the dryer.
6. Restore power and gas, then retest the dryer.

Step 1 - Disconnect Power and Access Interior

Before inspecting or replacing any components, unplug the dryer. This prevents electric shock while working. For gas dryers, turn off the gas valve as well.

Next, remove the rear panel or lint screen housing, depending on your model. This exposes the internal working parts for troubleshooting and repairs.

Step 2 - Clean Lint and Check Vent System

Lint buildup is a fire hazard and a common cause of reduced airflow and heating problems. Carefully clean the lint screen, exhaust vent pipe, and interior ductwork with a vacuum hose. Pay special attention to corners and joints where lint accumulates.

Also inspect the venting system from the dryer to the wall. Ensure it is clear of kinks and lint clogs. A severely clogged vent hose must be replaced.

Step 3 - Diagnose Electrical Parts with Multimeter

With the dryer interior accessible, use a multimeter to systematically diagnose components. Check for continuity in the thermal fuse, heating element coils, thermostat, and wiring.

Set the multimeter to the Ohms or continuity setting. Touch probes to terminals at each end of a part. If the meter beeps, that means continuity is intact. No beep indicates a break.

Step 4 - Replace Any Faulty Parts

Once you've identified any blown fuses, broken heating elements, or bad thermostats, acquire replacement parts. Carefully uninstall the old part and install the new one. Refer to the photo you took of the original wiring setup.

Common parts needing replacement include the heating element assembly, high-limit thermostat, operating thermostat, and thermal fuse. Have your model number handy at appliance parts stores.

Step 5 - Reassemble, Restore Power, Retest

With all repairs complete, carefully reinstall the back panel or lint screen housing. Double check your work. Make sure wiring connections are secure and components are properly seated.

Plug the dryer back in and restore gas flow. Run a timed high heat drying cycle and verify it generates ample heat again. You may need to repeat the diagnostic process if it still doesn't get hot.

When to Call a Repair Professional

While many overheat and no heat issues are DIY fixable, there are times to call a technician:

• Diagnosis requires disassembling most of the dryer.
• The problem persists after replacing common parts.
• You smell gas or the dryer exhaust is unusually hot.
• The dryer is under warranty. Repairs could void coverage.

Technicians have specialized tools, extensive experience, and can properly diagnose complex issues. They get parts at wholesale prices too.

Safety Tips for Dryer Repairs

Working on an appliance comes with electrical, gas, and fire hazards. Follow these tips to stay safe:

• Disconnect all power before disassembling the dryer.
• Use insulated tools when testing heating elements and wiring.
• Don't leave a disassembled dryer unattended.
• Install thermal fuses and lint screens properly.
• Vent dryers outside and clean ducts regularly.
• Plug into a dedicated outlet with appropriate amperage rating.

Rushing repairs or improperly reassembling dryers could make problems worse. Take your time and prioritize safety.

Preventative Maintenance

With proper maintenance you can avoid many no heat issues and extend the life of your clothes dryer. Be sure to:

• Clean the lint screen before every load.
• Scrub the screen with soap and water monthly to remove residue.
• Vacuum the exhaust vent and ductwork annually.
• Check the outdoor exhaust hood flapper is functioning properly.
• Confirm the dryer is level for proper airflow.
• Replace old vinyl or foil vent hoses with rigid metal.

Catching lint buildup early and clearing blockages prevents reduced airflow. Keeping your dryer well maintained saves money on repairs too.

Dealing with a dryer not heating properly can be frustrating. But in many cases, you can troubleshoot the problem and get your dryer running hot again with a little time and effort.

Start by cleaning the lint system thoroughly. Then use a multimeter to diagnose electrical parts like the heating element, thermostats, and thermal fuse. Replace any faulty components. Verify the vent is clear. Reassemble the dryer, taking care with wiring connections.

It is possible to revive a dryer blowing cold air with some basic maintenance. But if problems persist after repairs, don't hesitate to call a technician.