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.

How to replace a dryer heating element

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.

Why won't my dryer heat?

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.

How to replace the electronic control board in an electric dryer

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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Excellent service from Daniel

Daniel provided excellent service and was very quick to perform the repair. I have nothing good to say about the warranty program and the LACK of customer service and the inability to contact a human being to talk.

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Satisfied customer

Excellent technician Very thorough and detail oriented Would be happy to have him work on appliances again He managed to find our ranch headquarters in the middle of the desert

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Dryer service

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.

Terry F, Oklahoma City, OK