Putting a load of laundry into the dryer, setting it to run and then returning to discover that your clothes are still sopping wet can be incredibly frustrating. In many cases, the issue of a dryer not heating is caused by broken thermostats or thermal fuses.
Luckily, you can use a multimeter to test the parts of your dryer responsible for producing and managing heat. The following troubleshooting tips will help you determine the source of your dryer not heating problem.
Burned Out Heating Element Assembly
The heating element warms the air that enters your dryer drum. Over time the element can burn out. If the element is visibly burned out, it needs to be replaced. To do this, disconnect the power (and gas if applicable) to the dryer and remove the panel on the back. Then you can access the element and its coils. Use a multimeter to test the element for continuity.
The element can also burn out because of voltage issues. Voltage fluctuations can cause the element to work harder, burning it out more quickly. You can try to fix this by replacing the fuse and resetting the breaker. However, this is not recommended as it could mask a more serious issue. In this case it is best to schedule a service technician. They will be able to diagnose and repair the problem properly. This will prevent future failures of the element and possibly other parts within your dryer.
Blocked Thermostat
Doing the laundry is one of those chores that can quickly become frustrating if your dryer doesn’t actually dry your clothes. If you run a cycle, check the results and find your clothes sopping wet, there may be an easy fix.
Clogged vents or a lint filter can prevent your dryer from getting hot enough to actually do its job. Luckily, this is an issue that can be easily fixed by regularly cleaning out your vent, exhaust duct, and lint filter.
Another common reason for a dryer not heating is a faulty thermostat or thermal fuse. These are safety devices that prevent your dryer from overheating by shutting off the heating element when it reaches unsafe temperatures. Luckily, these can usually be replaced by simply testing them with a multimeter and reviewing the dryer’s wiring diagram. The dryer’s main control board can also be defective, which could prevent it from receiving the right amount of voltage to its electrical components.
Burned Out Flame Sensor
One of the most annoying laundry problems occurs when the dryer runs for an entire cycle but your clothes come out still damp. This is frustrating and can derail your motivation to finish the laundry for the day.
A clogged lint filter may be blocking air from reaching the heating element or the flame sensor. Make sure this is cleaned before starting another drying cycle.
You should also clean the flame sensor, a short rod in front of where the burners would be on gas models. Lint, dust, and hair can build up on the sensor and cause it to fail to open the gas valve when needed.
You should also test the thermal fuse and cycling thermostat for continuity using a multimeter. If either of these fails to turn on, they are defective and need to be replaced.
Tripped Circuit Breaker
One of the easiest ways to solve a dryer that won’t heat is by resetting your circuit breaker. It’s a good idea to test other electrical devices in the same room with your multimeter for continuity after you reset the breakers and plug them back in. If any of them fail to pass this test, they are likely at or close to the capacity of the circuit and will need to be replaced with a new fuse or sensor.
If you notice that the power in a certain room has suddenly stopped working, it’s likely because your breaker switch for that circuit has accidentally flipped to the off position. Just flip it to the on position and the problem will be solved. If your dryer still won’t heat, check the thermostat and temperature switch for continuity as described above. If both are faulty, replacing them should fix your appliance. Otherwise, call a professional for more troubleshooting and repair help.