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%

    71% of the time it's the
    Heating Element

  • 4%

    4% of the time it's the
    Thermal Cut-off Fuse

  • 3%

    3% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 22%

    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.

No heat during a dryer’s cycle indicates worn heating elements or misread thermostats. Repetitive runs won’t fix the absent warmth. Quickly consult dryer fix near me. Reviving steady heat ensures laundry dryness without wasting resources.

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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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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

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn’t my dryer heating up?
A failed heating element, clogged vent, or broken thermostat could be preventing the dryer from producing hot air.
How can I tell if the heating element is broken?
Unplug the dryer. Access the element in the dryer and test for continuity through the element with a multimeter. A broken element will not show continuity.
Could a clogged vent lead to a dryer not heating?
Yes, restricted airflow can cause overheating and trigger safety switches to cut heat.
What if the element and vent are fine but there’s still no heat?
Inspect the thermostat and thermal fuse to confirm they are functioning correctly and not interrupting the heat cycle.

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Glossary Terms

A dryer drum is the main interior component of a clothes dryer where clothes are placed to be dried. It rotates during the drying cycle, allowing heated air to circulate through the clothes.

A dryer filter, commonly known as a lint filter, is a component of a clothes dryer that captures lint and other debris from clothes during the drying process, preventing them from clogging the dryer vent.

A dryer pedestal is a platform that elevates a dryer off the ground, making it easier to load and unload laundry while also providing additional storage space in some models.

A dryer rack is an accessory for clothes dryers that provides a stationary platform to dry items without tumbling, ideal for delicate or bulky items, or shoes that might be damaged by the usual drying cycle.

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