Dryer isn't heating
Common reasons your dryer isn't heating
The most common reasons your dryer isn't heating are an open heating element, failed thermal cut-off fuse or a defective electronic control board.
71% of the time it's the
Heating Element
4% of the time it's the
Thermal Cut-off Fuse
3% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board
22% of the time it's the
Something else
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Common dryer repair parts you may need
Replacing one of these dryer parts may fix your problem.
Heating Element Replacement
When your dryer isn't generating heat, a defective heating element might be the culprit. An "open" heating element means it's broken, disrupting the flow of current needed to produce heat. Physical damage might not be visible, but an internal break in the element can still hinder heating. If your dryer isn't heating up, it's best to have a Sears Home Services Technician examine and repair it.
Thermal Cut-off Fuse Replacement
If your dryer isn't heating, it could be due to a malfunctioning thermal cut-off fuse. This fuse acts as a safety feature to prevent overheating. Overheating commonly occurs when the dryer's exhaust vent system becomes clogged. Once the thermal cut-off fuse is triggered, it cannot be reset. To resolve this issue, you'll need to schedule a visit from a Sears Home Services Technician to replace the blown fuse. The technician will also investigate the cause of the blown fuse and address any other issues to ensure the dryer heats up and operates correctly after the replacement.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
If your dryer isn't heating, it's possible that a faulty control board is to blame. The electronic control board oversees temperature regulation using a sensor, directing electrical current to the heating element or gas burner to warm the dryer and sustain the desired drying temperature inside the drum. If the dryer fails to heat up, a relay on the electronic control board might have malfunctioned. To address this issue, schedule a visit from a Sears Home Services Technician who can diagnose and rectify the heating problem.
What to expect when you experience a dryer isn't heating issue
How is the dryer isn't heating problem fixed?
Addressing most issues with no heat typically entails replacing components like the heating element, thermal cut-off fuse, or thermal fuse. However, since multiple factors could contribute to the problem, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for effective resolution. An accurate diagnosis is necessary to determine the extent of the repair needed and its associated costs.
Sears Home Services offers solutions for a dryer that isn't heating
When your dryer isn't generating heat, various factors could be responsible. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we advise having a Sears Home Services expert conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the underlying issue. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing a wide range of dryer malfunctions.
What to notice with a dryer isn't heating diagnosis
Diagnosing issues with modern appliances can pose a challenge without adequate knowledge and training. Attempting repairs without employing proper diagnostic methods often leads to replacing parts based on guesswork. Appliances, particularly those developed in the last decade, feature highly advanced technology, including electronic components that are challenging to assess. As a result, DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are progressively more complex.
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He was professional and polite. I didn't call back later that afternoon, although he replaced a thermostat the smart dry timer doesn't work as I was still having the same issue. The lady said she would email him and have him return. Never heard from anyone else.
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Glossary Terms
Natural gas is a fossil fuel used primarily for heating, cooking, and electricity generation. It's a hydrocarbon gas mixture consisting mainly of methane, but it also contains smaller amounts of other hydrocarbons and sometimes sulfur compounds.
A gas dryer is a laundry appliance that uses natural gas or propane to generate heat to dry clothes.
A furnace limit switch is a safety device in a furnace that monitors the temperature of the air passing over the heat exchanger. It shuts off the burner if the air becomes too hot, preventing overheating and potential damage to the furnace or your home.
A humidifier is a device designed to increase humidity levels in a single room or an entire building, improving air quality and comfort.
Common dryer symptoms to look out for
- Dryer won't turn off
- Dryer won't start cycle
- Dryer will not heat up
- Dryer vibrates
- Dryer stopped working
- Dryer not working
- Dryer not turning on
- Dryer not starting
- Dryer not spinning
- Dryer not heating
- Dryer not drying clothes properly
- Dryer not drying
- Dryer not draining
- Dryer not cooling down
- Dryer noisy
- Dryer no sound
- Dryer no power
- Dryer no heat
- Dryer makes noise when tumbling
- Dryer light not working
- Dryer leaking water
- Dryer leaking from bottom
- Dryer leaking
- Dryer gets hot but takes long time to dry
- Dryer drum roller replacement
- Dryer door not closing
- Dryer display not working
- Dryer burning smell