Dryer Not Heating? 7 Causes and How to Fix | Spencer's TV & Appliance

At a Glance:

Is there anything worse than opening your dryer and realizing your clothes are piled in a wet, soggy mess? If a dryer can’t heat up, it won’t effectively dry clothes. The tumbling alone won’t be enough, and you might have to hang up various shirts and dresses around the house to dry.

There are multiple reasons why a dryer might not be heating, and you can take steps to diagnose and repair some issues yourself. However, certain signs indicate that your dryer might be beyond repair or that the cost of fixing it isn't worth it. In this guide, our Spencer’s appliance experts explain the common causes of a dryer not heating and provide recommendations for top dryers known for their longevity.

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7 Reasons Your Dryer is Not Heating

When something is wrong with your appliance, you can look for clues to find the source of the problem. These clues often fall into two categories: what works and what isn’t. With your dryer, check to make sure every other aspect of your appliance is working. If your dryer turns on, tumbles, and runs for the appropriate amount of time, then you can diagnose it as a heating issue. However, if the dryer won’t turn on or rotate, other problems could exist.

Here are a few common causes of a dryer not heating:

Cause	How to Fix
Incorrect Settings	Ensure the dryer isn't set to an "eco" or cool setting. Switch to a standard or high-heat setting.
Full Lint Trap	Clean the lint trap after every load to allow proper airflow.
Tripped Circuit Breaker	Check your home's electrical panel and reset any tripped breakers.
No Gas Supply	For gas dryers, ensure the gas valve is open and functioning.
Faulty Thermostat	Replace the thermostat if it’s not accurately regulating the temperature.
Broken Heating Element	Test with a multimeter and replace if necessary.
Broken Thermal Fuse	Check and replace the thermal fuse if it’s not activating the heating element.

You can troubleshoot some of these issues on your own. Check your settings, clean your lint trap, and look at your circuit breakers. When you call a handyman for help or contact the manufacturer support line, you can skip all the basic repair steps because you have already looked at these minor issues.

Most Dryers Have the Same Systems

Almost every dryer has the same components. The only differences between brands are the design, proprietary technology, and smart capabilities. This means an issue with a Samsung dryer not heating will follow the same or similar troubleshooting process as a Whirlpool dryer not heating. So, you don’t have to call a brand-specific handyman; you can turn to online resources (like this one) to solve the problem.

If your dryer is experiencing a brand-specific problem, consult your user manual. You can also ask for help online. By searching a phrase like “Maytag dryer not heating,” you can discover whether or not this is a chronic problem that other customers face. There may be an issue with that model that other buyers have learned how to fix.

DIY vs. Professional Repairs

When your dryer isn’t heating, you may wonder whether to fix it or call a professional. Simple issues like a clogged lint trap or incorrect settings are often manageable with basic tools and guides.

However, calling a professional for complex electrical problems, a lack of experience, or persistent issues is safer. Knowing when to seek help ensures your safety and prevents further damage to your appliance.

DIY Repairs:

Simple Issues: Clogged lint trap, incorrect settings, tripped circuit breaker, and gas supply issues.
Basic Tools Required: Cleaning supplies, hand tools, and a multimeter for electrical checks.
Guidance Available: Plenty of online tutorials and guides for troubleshooting these problems.

When to Call a Professional:

Complex Electrical Problems: Faulty thermostat, broken heating element, or thermal fuse.
Lack of Experience: If you’re unsure about safely diagnosing or repairing the issue.
Persistent Issues: Problems that recur despite DIY attempts.

If the problem seems beyond basic troubleshooting or involves intricate components, it's safer to call a professional to avoid further damage and ensure safety.

➝ Learn More: Samsung Dryer Not Heating: 5 Ways to Troubleshoot

Recommended Dryers for Long-Lasting Performance

If your dryer breaks frequently or is getting older, it may be time to replace it with a new model. Repairs can get expensive; you could put that money into a new dryer instead. Don’t risk opening your dryer door to discover wet clothes. Here are four models from our dryer catalog that will provide reliable service for years.

Whirlpool 7.4 Cu. Ft. Chrome Shadow Front Load Electric Dryer

Whirlpool® 7.4 Cu. Ft. Chrome Shadow Front Load Electric Dryer

Whirlpool offers several base models if you want a simple, long-lasting dryer. These appliances are high-quality, and you don’t have to pay extra for many useful features. This Whirlpool electric dryer comes in a white or gray finish.

The AccuDry™ sensor identifies whether your laundry needs more time or if a cycle can end early, increasing the appliance’s energy efficiency. This dryer has 35 different cycles you can set depending on the heat, tumble speed, and duration. It is also a smart appliance that can be managed over Wi-Fi.

Key Features

Advanced Moisture Sensing: Optimizes drying by tracking moisture and temperature.
Wrinkle Shield™ Option: Keeps clothes tumbling to prevent wrinkles.
EcoBoost™ Option: Enhances energy efficiency by extending drying time.

⭐Featured Whirlpool WED5100HC Review:

"We really like this dryer. Quiet, quick and easy to use. Just enough tech to be helpful without being complicated. Over the last ten years we've learned that when it comes to appliances, if it doesn't say Whirlpool don't buy it."

Samsung 7.5 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Electric Dryer

Shop Samsung 7.5 Cu. Ft. Front Load Electric Dryer

This Samsung electric dryer is another option if you are buying on a budget but want some high-tech features. The Steam Sanitize+ feature can eliminate 99.9% germs and bacteria from your clothes.

You need this feature if you have kids who touch every surface and pick up all kinds of germs at school. This dryer will also remove pollen, dust mites, and pet dander from your clothes. You can use the Smart Care app to control the dryer, change the settings, and extend the time if necessary.

This appliance also has a lint filter indicator that alerts you when it’s time to clean out the lint trap. If your dryer is not heating because of lint buildup, this feature can remind you to clean out the filter.

Key Features

Sensor Dry: Automatically optimizes the time and temperature for each load.
Steam Sanitize+: Reduces wrinkles, odors, and static while sanitizing clothes.
Smart Care: Allows for easy troubleshooting with a smartphone app.

⭐Featured Samsung DVE45T6200W Review:

"I bought this dryer and am very happy with it so far! I have had drying issues in the past, but this thing has had no problems, even with heavier items! It dries fast and steam option is super. Another Samsung addition to my home."

LG 7.3 Cu. Ft. Graphite Steel Front Load Gas Dryer

Shop LG 7.3 Cu. Ft. Front Load Gas Dryer

If you need an efficient dryer for your home, you can’t go wrong with this LG gas dryer. Its TurboSteam™ technology simultaneously dries your clothes while incorporating steam to prevent wrinkles.

This can reduce the time you iron after your clothes are dry. The Sensor Dry system also determines how much longer your clothes need to dry, which can shorten your cycle and save energy. Using this app, you can connect your dryer to the ThinQ® system by LG in other parts of your home. You can buy this model in a graphite steel finish.

Key Features

TurboSteam™ Technology: Reduces wrinkles and odors in just 10 minutes.
Sensor Dry System: Automatically adjusts drying time based on moisture levels.
SmartThinQ® Technology: Allows for remote operation and monitoring via smartphone.

⭐Featured LG #DLGX7801VE Review:

"I was impressed with the options on this dryer. I really like the steam function as well as the delay and remote options. It was very cool to have two options of how the dryer door opens."

Maytag 7.3 Cu. Ft. White Front Load Gas Dryer

Shop Maytag 7.3 Cu. Ft. Front Load Gas Dryer

Another excellent choice is this Maytag gas dryer. It’s available in white or slate finishes, ensuring it complements your current appliances and décor.

If you need a boost to your laundry, press the Extra Power button. It will increase the cycle's time, temperature, and power to ensure your clothes are dry. It also comes with a Reduce Static option, so your clothes don’t stick together, and the metal drum doesn’t create little electric shocks when you touch it.

Key Features

Extra Power Button: Enhances drying performance for heavy-duty loads.
Advanced Moisture Sensing: Three sensors ensure even drying by monitoring moisture and air temperatures.
Steam-Enhanced Cycles: Helps reduce wrinkles and refresh clothes with steam.

⭐Featured Maytag #MGD8630HW Review:

"I have had the dryer for about a month now. I purchased the pedestal for east access for myself. I love the dryer, it dries throughly and has different settings. I looks absolutely beautiful in my laundry room."

Dryer Preventive Maintenance Tips

To avoid heating issues with your dryer, follow these preventive maintenance tips:

Clean the Lint Trap: Clean the lint trap after every load to ensure proper airflow.
Inspect the Vent Hose: Regularly check and clean the vent hose to prevent blockages.
Examine the Drum Seals: Ensure drum seals are intact to avoid overheating.
Clean the Dryer Interior: Periodically clean the drum and internal components.
Use Correct Settings: Select appropriate settings for each load to avoid overworking the dryer.

Regular maintenance helps keep your dryer efficient and extends its lifespan.

➝ Learn More: 10 Best Electric Dryers with the Most Cycle Options

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about dryers not heating.

Why is my dryer running but not heating?

Most clothes dryers have two key elements: a motor and a heater. The heating element is broken if your dryer runs but won’t heat up to dry your clothes. This could be an electrical issue with the circuit breaker or a mechanical issue with the appliance itself.

Should you repair or replace your old dryer?

When a dryer breaks, you can choose between paying for repairs or buying a new one. First, get an estimate of the total cost for repairs. Then consider how old your dryer is. Buying a new dryer might be worth the cost if you have an older model that requires much work. If your dryer is older than 10 years, it’s time to replace it.

How often should I clean the lint trap?

Clean the lint trap after every load to ensure proper airflow. A full lint trap restricts airflow, causing the dryer to overheat and potentially triggering a safety shutoff that prevents heating.

How do I know if the gas supply is active?

For gas dryers, ensure the gas valve is open and your gas bill is current. Check if other gas appliances are functioning. If not, there might be an issue with the gas supply to your home.

Why Trust Spencer’s TV & Appliance?

Since 1973, Spencer’s TV & Appliance has grown to 10 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction have always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.

Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!

Shop Dryers at Spencer’s

At Spencer’s TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop dryers online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you identify the source of a dryer not heating and help you find a replacement model. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!

➝ Learn More: Signs That It’s Time to Replace Your Clothes Dryer