Dryer Not Working? Top Causes of No Heat Explored
Having issues getting your clothes dry? Finding them coming out damp despite running a full cycle? An inefficient dryer that fails to heat properly can lead to wet laundry and frustration. But don't despair - most causes of no dryer heat can be addressed with some troubleshooting and maintenance.
We'll provide actionable solutions to restore drying power, plus preventative steps for optimizing performance long-term.
Lint Buildup Restricting Airflow
One of the most common culprits of reduced dryer heat is lint buildup within the machine and venting. Over time, lint accumulates on the filter, the exhaust vent, and throughout the internal ductwork. This fuzzy buildup is more than just an eyesore - it can severely restrict airflow.
With less air circulating, the heating element works overtime trying to maintain operating temperature. All the while, lingering lint debris absorbs and traps heat. Eventually, this excessive strain will cause the thermostat to completely shut off the heating element to avoid fire hazards.
Impacts on Drying Performance
Lint-related restrictions create several drying issues:
- Longer drying times
- Overheated heating elements
- Deactivated thermostats
- Wet or damp clothes after a full cycle
While cleaning the lint screen is second nature to most owners, lint can evade this first line of defense, making its way into the ductwork and housing. To maximize drying power, thorough and regular lint removal is essential.
Removing Lint and Preventing Future Buildup
Here are practical steps for banishing lint buildup:
- Clean the lint screen before and after each load. Consider lint strips for added protection.
- Use a vent brush to dislodge lingering lint inside the ductwork.
- Detach and wash the ductwork annually if possible.
- Vacuum the exhaust vent and surrounding areas.
- Use rigid, smooth metal ductwork rather than ribbed plastic hoses.
- Limit usage of fabric softener sheets, a lint-creating culprit.
While lint maintenance might seem tedious, it greatly extends the lifespan of your dryer. Preventing overheating and thermostat failure down the line.
Blown Thermal Fuse
Equipped on most dryers is a small safety device with a big job - the thermal fuse. This fuse acts as the last line of defense should the machine overheat dangerously. If operating temperature exceeds manufacturers specs by 30-60 degrees, the thermal fuse will automatically blow, shutting the entire unit down.
Why Does it Blow?
There are a few reasons why the thermal fuse keeps tripping:
- Severely restricted airflow
- Heating element stays on constantly
- Defective thermostat
The common thread is excessive heat generation without a cool down period. With the fuse disabled, the machine loses all power - including shutting off the tumbler motor.
Checking Power and Replacing the Fuse
To get your dryer heating again after a blown fuse, follow these steps:
- Unplug dryer and use PPE for safety
- Remove rear access panel
- Use vacuum attachment to remove lint
- Check power lines with multimeter
- Replace blown thermal fuse
- Secure all connections
- Restore power and gas valves
- Verify heating element, thermostat, and motor function
Take care when restoring power not to immediately overload the new fuse. Run several empty cycles first to confirm all systems engage properly before relaunching loads.
Heating Element Not Turning On
Within the guts of your dryer is the heating element - responsible for generating temperatures of 100-170degF to dry your clothes. Like any electronic component, these heating coils can fail over time. Symptoms include longer runtimes with moist clothes, or a complete lack of heat despite an operational tumbler.
Testing the Element
Before blindly replacing the heating element, do some troubleshooting:
- Verify electrical connections are intact
- Inspect for visual damage like cracks
- Check for obstructed or melted ventilation
- Use a multimeter to check for continuity
If the heating element fails the continuity test, replacement is required. Note the wattage, voltage, mounting, and connections before sourcing a new OEM part online or through an appliance parts retailer.
Step-by-Step Heating Element Replacement
With proper PPE, replacement steps include:
- Unplug dryer and turn off gas supply
- Remove rear panel
- Detach and label wires
- Extract fasteners to remove element
- Install replacement part
- Reconnect wires and fasteners
- Confirm continuity with multimeter
- Restore gas/electric supply
- Verify heat generation via empty test cycle
Take care not to over-tighten connections or allow wires to pinch during reassembly. Not heating after a new element indicates improper installation or defective part.
Vent Blockage/Restricted Airflow
As outlined earlier, a dryer requires unobstructed airflow to heat effectively. Over time, vents can become crushed, kinked or congested with lint, debris, pests, and other buildup.
Signs of Restricted Airflow
Clues your vents need cleaning include:
- Increased runtimes
- Overheated exhaust air
- Lint accumulated on external vent hood
- High humidity, condensation in venting
Don't disregard warning signs - prolonged blockages can destroy dry timers, motors, and heating elements.
Cleaning Lint-Clogged Vents
Here's how to banish hidden vent blockages:
- Detach ductwork and use a vacuum in each segment
- Run vent brush from outdoor hood inward
- Check damper flap on hood is swinging freely
- Use rigid metal rather than plastic ductwork
- Confirm unrestricted airflow with tissue paper test
Always restore disconnected ductwork using metal foil tape at each joint. Avoid overlapping ducts or allowing low spots where lint can gather and impede airflow.
Moisture Sensors Not Working
Rather than running strictly on timers, modern dryers also utilize moisture sensors to evaluate when clothes are sufficiently dried. Damaged or dirty sensors can fail prematurely and end cycles without properly drying the laundry.
How Sensors Work
These little detectors monitor internal humidity via metal bars that emit an electrical current throughout the cycle. Once conductivity spikes - indicating minimal moisture remains - the sensor communicates cycle completion to the central computer module.
Testing and Replacement
To evaluate if drying sensors are faulty:
- Initiate manufacturer sensor diagnostics
- Visually inspect for debris-covered or corroded detectors
- Check connections and wiring for abnormalities
- Order and install replacement sensor using schematics
- Run dryer empty to verify sensor signal communication
Note: other electrical faults mimicking bad sensors include defective control boards, thermal fuses, operating thermostats, and module wiring harnesses.
Overloaded Dryer Capacity
Trying to dry bulky items or cramming in large loads can overload your dryer's drying potential. Excess clothing pressed against the drum restricts crucial airflow.
Not only does an overloaded machine extend cycle lengths, energy waste, and fire risk - it strains components by improper operation.
Preserving Airflow
Follow loading guidelines within your owner's manual for ideal cycle performance. As a rule of thumb:
- Leave 6-12 inches clearance around drum perimeter
- Avoid cramming and pressing items flush together
- Use the high-capacity, moisture-sensing cycle setting for large loads
- Upgrade to a larger drum size if your household exceeds drying limits
Periodically fluffing towels and larger items mid-cycle also boosts the drying effects for denser items.
Worn Out Heating Element
Generating up to 5,000 watts of heat, the heating element in your dryer has a tough job. After 5-10 years, the operating lifespan of this coil may be gradually fading.
Signs of Element Failure
Signals that the heating element needs replacement include:
- Inconsistent heat generation
- Dramatically increased drying times
- Burning smell from ventilation
- Scorch marks around the element
Rather than enduring the frustration of inefficient drying cycles with marginal heat, replacement of the heating element restores performance.
Testing with a Multimeter
Diagnose heating element failure by:
- Removing rear access panel
- Visually inspecting element for scratches or cracks
- Checking continuity across terminals with a multimeter
- Order approved OEM replacement part if corroded or continuity is poor
Periodic continuity checks coupled with visual inspections provide valuable performance insights before operational failure.
Damaged Door Seal
Preventing escaped heat and moisture leakage falls upon the dryer door seal. This flexible gasket circulates high-velocity hot air while creating an airtight chamber.
Causes of Seal Damage
Common reasons for cracked or loosening seals include:
- Repeated slamming/impacts against the door
- Accumulated lint debris
- General wear from frequent openings
- Heat fatigue and material drying out
- Poor installation alignment
Finding the Right Replacement
Measure all dimensions before ordering a new gasket, confirming:
- Exact length and thickness
- Diameter to match the drum opening
- Seam alignment and mounting
Carefully detach the worn gasket and scrape away any residue. Test the fit of the replacement seal before permanently adhering to the chassis.
Preventative Dryer Maintenance
Like most appliances, regular dryer maintenance preserves performance and lifespan. Below are key areas to periodically inspect and service:
- Clean lint trap before/after each load
- Detach and wash vent ducts seasonally
- Confirm smooth drum rotation monthly
- Check door alignment and seal yearly
- Inspect all connections and wiring biannually
- Document drying times to catch efficiency losses
Catching minor issues before catastrophic failure allows for quick repairs. Consider an annual dryer tune-up by a certified technician.
Understanding common dryer heating failures helps troubleshoot and prevent costly repairs. Follow best practices for cleaning vents, replacing worn parts, optimizing loads, and conducting preventative maintenance.
Pay mind to any emerging drying difficulties - longer run times, heat deficiencies, or incomplete cycles likely indicate issues covered here. Tackle problems early before they compound into bigger headaches down the line. With some periodic TLC, your dryer can continue drying efficiently for over a decade.