Why is My Dryer Not Heating? A Fort Worth Homeowner’s Guide

Do you have a problem with your dryer not heating? There are several reasons why your dryer isn't heating efficiently. Thanks to the appliance repair professionals here at Mr. Appliance of Fort Worth, we've compiled a list of the top reasons you might struggle with your special household appliance in Fort Worth.

Dryer not heating? If you're resorting to searching for “Why is my dryer not heating?” our Fort Worth appliance repair team has compiled some answers and tips on how to troubleshoot the issue. Here are the top reasons why you might have a problem with your dryer not heating.

Top Reasons Behind a Dryer Not Heating

No Power or Gas

You count on having a functional dryer for your daily routine, especially if you're in desperate need of clean, dry clothes. The first place to start if your dryer isn't working or the dryer's not heating is to check to make sure that it's properly plugged in and that it has a power supply (or gas supply if you have a gas dryer). A dryer not heating could simply be because a circuit breaker has been tripped, the dryer isn't plugged in properly, or because there's no gas supply.

You can check your breaker box to ensure that the circuit breaker hasn't been tripped. If not, then check to make sure that your dryer has a gas supply, that it’s plugged in properly and has a reliable power supply. You can check the plug by testing it with another small appliance. If power supply isn't the reason why you're having a problem with a dryer not heating, then you've got a problem with your dryer's heat production capabilities.

Clogged or Dirty Lint Screen

Now, if your dryer turns on and spins, but isn't heating, then the most common culprit is lint. Excess lint can build up within your dryer, restricting airflow. The result? Wet clothes, even after your dryer has completed a full cycle. You should be emptying your dryer's lint trap after every load to keep it clean and free of excess lint. If you're struggling with a dryer not heating, lint is frequently the cause.

Your first step to eliminating lint is to unplug your dryer. First, you'll clean out the lint screen and remove any excess lint around the screen or where it slots into your dryer. Next, you're going to want access to the rear of your dryer, so you can remove the back panel. This can be tricky, especially in a small space, so you might want to invest in a professional dryer repair service if possible. Once you've removed the back panel, use a vacuum to remove any lint you find.

Lastly, you're going to want to check your dryer's exhaust vent and vent hose. You want to make sure that this is clear of lint and other potential obstructions. That's because these obstructions can impede your dryer's performance, but they're also a major fire hazard. If necessary, you might want to invest in professional dryer vent cleaning services on an annual basis to keep your dryer vent clean and clear. That way, you can avoid the common dryer issue of a dryer not heating because of a clogged vent.

Blown Thermal Fuse

Now, if you've taken the time to ensure that your dryer has power and that there are no lint clogs or other obstructions, but you're still struggling with a dryer not heating, chances are that a thermal fuse has been blown. A blown fuse can be a serious problem because it requires a replacement. Your dryer's thermal fuse is an important safety feature because it keeps your dryer from becoming too hot and becoming a fire hazard.

Although you can replace a thermal fuse yourself, it's recommended that you invest in professional appliance repair services—such as those provided by Mr. Appliance of Fort Worth—Dryer not heating? It could be because of a blown thermal fuse, signaling a more serious problem. A reliable appliance repair expert can get to the bottom of the problem, so it's important to have the number for professional Fort Worth appliance repair on hand, just in case.

Bad Flame Sensor (Gas-Powered Models Only)

If you have a gas dryer, then you know that it requires an ignition source to ignite the gas, which is what creates heat for your dryer. Typically, this is accomplished by a flame sensor, an essential component within your gas dryer. If your flame sensor is broken or faulty, then it won't allow for the ignition of a flame, so you end up with your dryer not heating. Before you start tinkering with the sensor, make sure that you cut power to the dryer and close the gas valve.

Luckily, they're not difficult to replace, but you should test them first to ensure that it's the source of the problem. Using an electric multimeter, you can measure its resistance. If the multimeter indicates that the flame sensor is faulty, then you can replace it yourself or have a professional appliance repair service handle the replacement for you. Once the flame sensor has been replaced, it's safe to restore power to your dryer and restore gas flow by opening the gas valve.

Faulty Heating Element or Coils

Another common issue that can result in a dryer not heating is a faulty heating element. Malfunctioning or faulty heating elements can cause your dryer not to heat, often because the coils are blocked, which results in the element overheating.

If you want to investigate this, make sure that the power (and gas supply, if applicable) has been disconnected. Remove the back panel of your dryer so that you have clear and open access to the heating element and the coils. You can use a multimeter to test both the element and coils for continuity. If either fails, you can replace the element.

Although replacing parts might seem simple enough, laundry appliances are incredibly complex, especially major appliances. Electric and gas dryers also pose a potential fire hazard if the replacements are done properly, so it's recommended that you call a professional Fort Worth appliance repair company for replacement services.

We Have You Covered, Fort Worth: Dryer Not Heating? Call Mr. Appliance Today

Dryer not heating? You might need a Fort Worth appliance repair expert to come in and properly diagnose the problem. At Mr. Appliance, we specialize in almost all major brands of appliances, including Samsung dryer repair. For electric dryers and gas-powered dryers, we're your one-call solution when you're struggling with a clothes dryer not heating.

For a prompt and professional repair process, contact us today, and let’s restore your dryer’s optimal performance once more.