Dryer Not Heating? Check These Essential Parts First

Dryer Not Heating? Check These Essential Parts First

A dryer that isn’t heating properly can be frustrating, leaving you with damp laundry and longer drying times. If your dryer is tumbling but not producing heat, several key components could be at fault. Before calling a technician, check these essential parts to diagnose and fix the issue.

1. Thermal Fuse

What It Does:

The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off power to the heating element if the dryer overheats.

Signs of a Faulty Thermal Fuse:

  • The dryer runs but doesn’t heat.
  • No heat at all, even on different settings.

How to Fix:

  • Locate the fuse near the blower housing or heating element.
  • Test it with a multimeter for continuity. If it’s blown, replace it.

2. Heating Element (Electric Dryers Only)

What It Does:

The heating element generates heat to dry clothes.

Signs of a Bad Heating Element:

  • Dryer runs but only blows cold air.
  • Visible break or burn marks on the coil.

How to Fix:

  • Inspect the heating element for damage.
  • Test it with a multimeter. If there’s no continuity, replace it.

3. Gas Valve Coils (Gas Dryers Only)

What They Do:

Gas valve coils open the gas flow to ignite the burner and produce heat.

Signs of Bad Gas Valve Coils:

  • The dryer heats up at first, then stops producing heat.
  • No heat at all despite the igniter glowing.

How to Fix:

  • If the igniter glows but no flame appears, the gas valve coils may be faulty. Replace them as a set.

4. High-Limit Thermostat

What It Does:

This thermostat prevents the dryer from overheating. If it fails, it may cut off heat prematurely.

Signs of a Bad High-Limit Thermostat:

  • The dryer overheats or doesn’t heat at all.
  • The thermal fuse blows repeatedly.

How to Fix:

  • Test with a multimeter for continuity. If faulty, replace it.

5. Flame Sensor (Gas Dryers Only)

What It Does:

The flame sensor detects heat from the burner to ensure proper ignition.

Signs of a Faulty Flame Sensor:

  • No heat even when the igniter glows.
  • Igniter turns off before the gas ignites.

How to Fix:

  • Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If defective, replace it.

6. Timer or Control Board

What They Do:

The timer or control board regulates the drying cycle and heat function.

Signs of a Malfunction:

  • The dryer runs but never heats.
  • The cycle seems stuck or doesn’t advance properly.

How to Fix:

  • Check for burnt components on the board.
  • If other parts check out, replacing the control board may be necessary.

Need Dryer Parts? Visit PRS Parts Inc. in Honolulu!

If your dryer isn’t heating, replacing the right part can restore its function. At PRS Parts Inc., we carry high-quality dryer replacement parts for both gas and electric models. Contact us today to find the right part for your repair!

Image Credit: Image Source: Mr. Appliance

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