Dryer will not heat up

Common reasons your dryer will not heat up

The most common reasons your dryer won't heat up 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

If your dryer fails to heat up, it might be due to an open heating element. In this context, "open" indicates that the heating element is damaged, resulting in a lack of electrical current flow needed to generate heat. Even without visible physical damage, an interior break in the element's continuity can lead to heating issues. When facing heating problems with your dryer, consider scheduling a visit from a Sears Home Services Technician for repair.

How to replace a dryer heating element

Thermal Cut-off Fuse Replacement

If a thermal cut-off fuse fails, your dryer will lose its ability to generate heat. This fuse acts as a safety measure to prevent overheating, commonly triggered by a blocked exhaust vent system. Once the thermal cut-off fuse is triggered, it won't reset on its own. To resolve this issue, it's necessary to arrange for a Sears Home Services Technician to replace the blown fuse. The technician will investigate the root cause of the blown fuse and address any other underlying issues to ensure proper heating and operation of the dryer after the replacement.

Why won't my dryer heat?

Electronic Control Board Replacement

If your dryer fails to heat up, a malfunctioning control board might be to blame. This board is responsible for monitoring the temperature using a sensor and regulating the electrical current to the heating element or gas burner, ensuring the dryer reaches and maintains the desired drying temperature. When the dryer fails to heat up, it's possible that a relay on the electronic control board has malfunctioned. To address this issue, it's advisable to schedule a diagnostic and repair service with a Sears Home Services Technician to identify and rectify the heating failure.

How to replace the electronic control board in an electric dryer

What to expect when you experience a dryer will not heat up issue

How do I get a dryer won't heat up problem fixed?

Addressing most issues where the dryer fails to heat typically entails replacing components such as the heating element, thermal cut-off fuse, or electronic control board. Nonetheless, given the various potential causes, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the problem. An accurate diagnosis is necessary to determine the cost of the repair.

Sears Home Services advice for a dryer that won't heat up

When the dryer fails to heat up, numerous factors could be at play. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest having a Sears Home Services expert conduct diagnostic tests to pinpoint the underlying issue. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing various dryer malfunctions.

What to consider with a dryer won't heat up diagnosis

Understanding and diagnosing contemporary appliances without adequate expertise and training can prove challenging. Attempting repairs without employing appropriate diagnostic methods often leads to guesswork-based part replacements. Over the past decade, appliances have evolved significantly, incorporating complex electronic components that pose testing challenges. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on modern appliance models are progressively more intricate.

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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.

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