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  1. Repair
  2. Whirlpool
  3. Whirlpool Dryer
  4. Dryer not heating

Whirlpool dryer not heating

Common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not heating

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dryer is not heating are an open heating element, failed thermal cut-off fuse or a faulty thermal fuse.

  • 38%

    38% of the time it's the
    Heating Element

  • 18%

    18% of the time it's the
    Thermal Cut-off Fuse

  • 14%

    14% of the time it's the
    Thermal Fuse

  • 30%

    30% of the time it's the
    Something else

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    Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool dryer

    Heating Element Replacement

    An open heating element could be causing the problem when your dryer is not heating. “Open” means that the heating element is broken and current isn’t flowing through the element to produce heat. You may not see physical damage on the heating element for it to be electrically open. An interior break in the continuity of the element can prevent it from heating. When your dryer isn’t heating, have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and fix the dryer.


    Thermal Cut-off Fuse Replacement

    A failed thermal cut-off fuse will prevent your dryer from heating. This fuse is a safety device that helps keep the dryer from overheating. Overheating is often caused by a clogged exhaust vent system in the dryer. Once the thermal cut-off fuse trips, it won’t reset. You’ll need to have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and replace the blown thermal cut-off fuse. The technician will check for the cause of the blown fuse and correct any additional problems so the dryer will heat and run properly after replacing the fuse.

    Thermal Fuse Replacement

    In a gas dryer not heating, a blown thermal fuse could be causing the problem. The thermal fuse is a safety device attached to the blower housing that trips when the dryer overheats. A faulty thermal fuse may trip at a lower temperature than it is designed to trip at. When your gas dryer won’t heat, schedule a repair appointment through Sears Home Services and we’ll send an in-home technician to fix the dryer. The technician will check the thermal fuse and replace it if it’s blown.

    What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dryer not heating issue

    How is the not heating problem fixed?

    Correcting most not heating problems usually involves replacing the heating element, thermal cut-off fuse or thermal fuse. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

    Sears Home Services recommendations for a dryer that is not heating

    When the dryer is not heating it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend scheduling a Whirlpool dryer repair with a Sears Home Services professional who can perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced in diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

    What to look out for with a dryer not heating diagnosis

    Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dryer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

    Whirlpool Dryer Models and Heating Issues

    When your Whirlpool dryer is not heating, pinpointing the issue can save you time and frustration. Below, we explore common problems and solutions for specific Whirlpool model series: Duet, Cabrio, and Ultimate Care II. Understanding these issues can help you restore your dryer's performance efficiently.

    Whirlpool Duet Dryer Not Heating

    If your Whirlpool Duet dryer is not heating, the problem may lie with a faulty thermal fuse. This small but critical component prevents the dryer from overheating. When the thermal fuse blows, it cuts off power to the heating element, causing the dryer to stop producing heat. To diagnose this issue, you can use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there is no continuity, replacing the thermal fuse should resolve the problem.

    Another potential issue is a defective heating element. If your new Whirlpool dryer is not heating, the heating element might be burnt out. This element is responsible for generating the heat necessary to dry your clothes. If it fails, the dryer won't heat up. Inspecting and replacing a faulty heating element can often fix the problem, ensuring your Duet dryer heats efficiently once again.

    Whirlpool Cabrio Dryer Not Heating

    For those experiencing issues with a Whirlpool Cabrio dryer not heating, a clogged vent system could be the culprit. When the vent is blocked, hot air cannot escape, causing the dryer to overheat and shut off the heating element as a safety measure. Regularly cleaning the vent system is crucial to maintaining optimal airflow and preventing overheating.

    Additionally, a malfunctioning thermostat might be why your new Whirlpool dryer is not heating. The thermostat regulates the dryer's internal temperature, and if it fails, the dryer might not produce any heat. Using a multimeter, you can test the thermostat for continuity. If it is defective, replacing the thermostat should restore your Cabrio dryer's heating function.

    Whirlpool Dryer Ultimate Care II Not Heating

    If your Whirlpool dryer Ultimate Care II is not heating, a common cause could be a broken igniter. In gas dryers, the igniter is responsible for lighting the gas flame to produce heat. If the igniter is damaged or worn out, it won't ignite the gas, leaving your dryer without heat. Inspecting the igniter for visible damage and testing it with a multimeter can help determine if it needs to be replaced.

    Another reason your new Whirlpool dryer is not heating could be a malfunctioning flame sensor. The flame sensor detects whether the igniter is hot enough to light the gas. If the sensor is faulty, it won't signal the gas valve to open, and the dryer won't heat. Testing the flame sensor with a multimeter and replacing it if necessary can resolve this heating issue.

    Whether you own a Whirlpool Duet, Cabrio, or Ultimate Care II dryer, understanding the common reasons behind heating issues can help you diagnose and fix the problem efficiently. Regular maintenance and timely repairs can keep your dryer running smoothly and prevent future heating problems. If you encounter difficulties in diagnosing or repairing your dryer, consulting a professional technician is always a wise choice to ensure safe and effective repairs.

    What our customers say about us

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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.


    Tammy M, Hilton, NY

    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


    Rose W, Las Cruces, NM

    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

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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 condensate pump is a device installed in HVAC systems, particularly high-efficiency furnaces, to collect and automatically remove the water (condensate) produced during the heating process.

    A furnace door is a crucial component of a home heating system, providing access to the interior of the furnace for maintenance, repairs, and inspections. It helps in maintaining the system's efficiency and safety.

    Additional possible Whirlpool dryer symptoms you may experience