Dryer Not Heating? What to Check Before You Call a Technician

US In Home Services Team

Oct 29

2 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

When your dryer tumbles but the clothes come out cold and damp, the problem is usually airflow, power or a heating part. Here is what to check, in order.

Home laundry room with a washer and dryer

Safety first: unplug an electric dryer, or unplug and shut off the gas supply on a gas dryer, before you check anything inside.

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1. Clean the lint screen

A clogged lint screen cuts airflow. Many dryers then shut off the heat to protect themselves. Clean the screen before every load, and wash it with warm soapy water now and then if dryer sheets leave a film.

2. Check the dryer vent

The vent hose and the wall duct can fill with lint over time. A crushed or blocked vent causes long drying times, a hot laundry room and no heat. Disconnect the hose and look for build-up or kinks, and check that the outside flap opens when the dryer runs.

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3. Check the settings

Some cycles, like "air fluff" or "delicate," use little or no heat. Choose a regular timed dry to test.

4. Check the power (electric dryers)

Electric dryers need two breakers (240 volts). If only one has tripped, the drum can still turn but there will be no heat. Reset the breaker once; if it trips again, call a professional.

5. Check the gas supply (gas dryers)

Make sure the gas valve behind the dryer is open and that other gas appliances work. If you ever smell gas, leave the house and call your gas company.

6. Parts that commonly fail

If airflow and power are fine, the cause is usually a part:

Thermal fuse – blows when the dryer overheats, often because of a blocked vent
Heating element (electric) or igniter / gas valve coils (gas)
Cycling or high-limit thermostat

These parts need to be tested with a meter. If a thermal fuse has blown, the vent should be cleaned too, or the new fuse will blow again.